Rehabassistent

Rehabassistent is a health care professional who supports rehabilitation teams in helping patients recover physical, cognitive, and daily living skills following injury, surgery, or illness. They work under the supervision of licensed rehabilitation professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, and nurses.

Typical duties include assisting during therapy sessions, preparing and maintaining equipment, guiding and monitoring patients through exercises, assisting with activities of daily living, transporting patients within facilities, documenting progress, and providing patient education on home exercises and safety. They also help with administrative tasks and ensure hygiene and infection control.

Training and qualification for rehabassistents vary by country and health system. In many places, they complete a vocational training program or certificate in rehabilitation support or allied health assistance. Certification or licensing may be required, and practice is typically performed under supervision with a defined scope of practice.

Workplaces for rehabassistents include hospitals, rehabilitation centers, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health services. The role complements licensed clinicians; rehabassistents do not diagnose conditions or develop treatment plans independently and must follow the directions of supervising therapists.

Career development opportunities exist for gaining specialized tasks, assuming supervisory responsibilities, or pursuing further education to become physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or nurses, depending on national regulations and educational pathways. The position is typically characterized by teamwork, patient-facing care, and a focus on practical rehabilitative support.