All patients that are referred to Tulsa Bone & Joint Hand Therapy will initially have an evaluation with an Occupational Therapist. After the initial evaluation, the patient will set up their appointments and may notice they are scheduled with a COTA for some of their visits. Patients may not know or understand COTA’s role and may be hesitant to see them.
A COTA is a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant. They have attended college and receive an Associate degree in Applied Science. A COTA is also required to pass National Boards and carry a state medical license in order to treat patients. However, a COTA cannot work without being under supervision of a Licensed Occupational Therapist (OTR/L or OT).
Angela Averill is our only COTA here at Tulsa Bone & Joint. She has been in the hand therapy setting for 6 years. She is qualified to provide manual treatment to a patient’s affected body part (finger, wrist, elbow etc.), perform ASTYM, various modalities, and instruct the patient in exercises and activities that have been specified in the Plan of Care. Angela is in constant communication with the OTR about the patients treatment and progression. She follows the Care Plan established during the initial evaluation and will address any questions or concerns directly with OTR. Angela has shadowed our doctors to get a better understanding of the diagnoses treated here at Tulsa Bone & Joint, and she will occasionally assist in fabrication of splints.
Angela enjoys interacting with patients and being part of the expert team helping our patients reach their goals and return to prior level of function.
We here at Tulsa Bone & Joint are happy to have her as part of our Hand Therapy Team.
