The Occupational Therapist I interprets, organizes, applies and modifies as necessary medically prescribed occupational therapy to inpatients and/or outpatients. The Occupational Therapist I plans and implements programs to meet individual needs and provides care consistent with the Scope of Practice Standards and Code of Ethics of the American Occupational Therapy Association and the California Board of Occupational Therapy. Competency skills include the ability to provide care in a safe environment utilizing appropriate communication with sensitivity to special populations. This includes patients with diverse cultural backgrounds, age, developmental issues and physical impairments.    The Occupational Therapist I is an  entry-level position for new graduates or those new to the setting of hire.  Focus is on orientation and mentorship to become an independent, competent clinician.  Successful proficiency at this level is necessary for progression to Level II.