WCH Welcomes New Occupational Therapist Assistant

Wayne County Hospital is pleased to introduce Ashley Beavers, COTA as the newest member of the Wayne County Hospital (WCH) Rehabilitation Services Department. Ashley joined WCH in October of 2012.

Ashley received her Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant designation after passing the national board examination in December 2012. She received her Associate of Applied Science degree as an Occupational Therapist Assistant from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, IA in August 2012. In addition to academic lectures her training included a series of clinical rotations at different health organizations providing care to acute, skilled and specialty clinic patients with varying diagnoses.

Previously, Ashley worked as a computer programmer and realized she wanted a job where she could help people on a more personal level. “Being a COTA contributes to the whole well being of a patient and gives them motivation to keep moving forward. Being able to help people become more independent gives me motivation to be the best COTA. I really wanted to make a difference in someone’s life,” she commented.

Ashley’s work as an occupational therapist involves helping individuals regain their ability to perform daily activities and achieve independence. This may include working on fine motor skills, eye-hand coordination, addressing developmental delays and adapting the environment to fit the patient’s ability. Ashley works with patients of all ages addressing psychological, social, and environmental factors that affect how a person functions in different ways. She provides therapeutic exercises and teaches the use of adaptive equipment.

Originally from Corydon, Ashley graduated from Wayne Community High School in 1999. During her free time she enjoys reading and painting and is addicted to Pinterest. She also enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, family and friends.

“We are pleased to have Ashley with us. As a COTA she brings a high level of expertise to our department and broadens the essential services we are able to provide for our patients,” commented Alyssa Wilson, Director WCH Rehabilitation Services Department. For more information please contact the WCH Rehabilitation Services Department at 641-872-5278.