Director Of Rehabilitation

Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) Job Description

I. Purpose and Overall Duties

The Director of Rehabilitation (DOR) is responsible for the overall management, coordination, and supervision of rehabilitation services within a long-term care or related setting. The role ensures the delivery of high-quality therapy services, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and achievement of clinical and financial performance goals.

II. Essential Job Functions

A. Program Management / Operations

• Plan, organize, and direct rehabilitation services to ensure efficient and effective operations
• Develop and monitor staffing schedules to meet patient care needs and productivity standards
• Oversee daily therapy operations, including caseload management and service delivery
• Ensure appropriate utilization of resources, equipment, and staff

B. Clinical Oversight / Quality Assurance

• Ensure delivery of high-quality therapy services in accordance with clinical standards and best practices

• Monitor patient outcomes and implement strategies to improve quality and performance
• Conduct chart reviews and audits to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance
• Support evidence-based practice and continuous quality improvement initiatives

C. Regulatory Compliance / Documentation

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and payer regulations, including Medicare guidelines
• Maintain readiness for surveys, audits, and inspections
• Oversee accuracy and timeliness of clinical documentation and billing processes
• Implement and enforce company policies and procedures

D. Leadership / Supervision / Team Development

• Supervise, direct, and evaluate therapy staff, including PTs, OTs, SLPs, assistants, and support personnel
• Provide coaching, training, and performance feedback to team members
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and retention of therapy staff
• Foster a positive work environment and promote teamwork and employee engagement

E. Communication / Interdisciplinary Coordination

• Collaborate with facility leadership, nursing, and interdisciplinary team members to coordinate patient care
• Communicate effectively with physicians, patients, families, and external stakeholders
• Participate in facility meetings, care conferences, and leadership discussions

F. Financial / Productivity Management

• Monitor productivity, staffing efficiency, and financial performance of the rehabilitation department
• Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement strategies to achieve operational goals
• Manage departmental budgets and control costs while maintaining quality care

G. Professional Development

• Maintain current licensure and leadership competencies (if applicable)
• Participate in continuing education and leadership development activities
• Stay current with regulatory changes and industry best practices

In addition to the responsibilities of the Director of Rehabilitation, employees are expected to perform the essential functions of their respective licensed or support role (e.g., PT, OT, SLP, PTA, OTA, or Rehabilitation Technician), as applicable, based on their credentials and operational needs.

III. General Skills Required

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Effective communication (verbal and written)
• Organizational and time management skills
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to analyze data and drive performance improvement
• Interpersonal and relationship-building skills

IV. Minimum Experience, Education, and Licensure

• Licensed Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or Speech-Language Pathologist (as required by state and facility)
• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree in a related field
• Minimum of three (3) years of clinical experience
• Prior supervisory or management experience preferred

V. Essential Physical Demands

• Ability to move throughout the facility to supervise staff and patient care activities
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday
• Occasional bending, reaching, or positioning as needed for oversight or assistance
• Ability to use proper body mechanics in accordance with safety standards

VI. Work Environment

• Long-term care or clinical setting
• Primarily indoor environment with frequent interaction with staff, patients, and facility leadership
• May require occasional travel between facilities or locations

VII. Additional Information

The items listed above cover the essential duties and requirements of this position. This job description shall not be construed as a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental, or similar duties that may be required as part of this job. This job description and job conditions are subject to change as needed in accordance with company or client requirements.

VIII. Reasonable Accommodation Statement

Employees are expected to be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this position with or without reasonable accommodation. If an employee believes a reasonable accommodation is needed, they should contact Human Resources so that a review can be conducted. The company complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

IX. Acknowledgment

X. Reminder

This job description describes the expected outcomes of the position. The actions and activities required to achieve these outcomes are evaluated through performance management processes. The attitudes and actions performed by all employees are the foundation of our business.

• This position may be filled by a licensed OT, PT, SLP, OTA, PTA, or an experienced Rehabilitation Technician.
• Licensed clinicians and assistants must maintain a current, unrestricted state license in good standing.
• A therapy license is not required. Candidates who are not licensed therapists or therapy assistants must have experience in a skilled nursing facility (SNF). Prior rehabilitation leadership or management experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of Medicare regulations and skilled nursing rehabilitation practices is required.