Job Summary The Director of Rehabilitation Services is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing the operations of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and related services. This role ensures quality care, regulatory compliance, and efficient resource utilization while leading staff development, budget planning, and strategic initiatives. The Director serves as a clinical and administrative liaison among hospital departments, patients, and community partners.
Essential Functions - Leads and manages rehabilitation services across multiple therapy disciplines including PT, OT, ST, and recreational therapy.
- Collaborates with medical and clinical staff to plan and align patient care and rehabilitation goals.
- Develops and implements policies, procedures, and standards of care to meet clinical and operational goals.
- Manages department budgets, staffing, productivity, and operating costs.
- Oversees regulatory compliance with state, federal, and accreditation standards including CMS, JCAHO, and CARF.
- Facilitates staff education, training, and performance evaluation to promote clinical excellence.
- Monitors quality metrics and participates in performance improvement initiatives.
- Recommends service charges and manages departmental fee structures.
- Participates in interdisciplinary rounds and care planning activities.
- Serves as a consultant to internal departments, community agencies, and external stakeholders.
- Leads development of new programs and services, including research and innovation initiatives.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations - Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.
- Strong knowledge of rehabilitation modalities, patient care standards, and compliance.
- Familiarity with JCAHO, CARF, and other regulatory agencies.
- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage department operations.
- Experience in program development and quality improvement
QualificationsEducation - Doctorate (Professional or Academic) in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech-Language Pathology (Preferred)
- Master's Degree with additional leadership experience (Strongly Preferred)
- Bachelor's Degree with additional leadership experience (May be Considered)
Licenses/Certifications - PT - Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist or Speech Language Pathologist Upon Hire (Required)
Experience - 2+ years supervisory or management experience in a rehabilitation setting (Required) And
- Prior Experience in long-term care, post-acute, or hospital-based rehabilitation (Preferred) And
- Prior Experience with MDS, care planning, PPS, Medicaid reimbursement, and regulatory requirements (Required)
