A qualified mental retardation professional (QMRP) assists individuals with intellectual disabilities. They perform a variety of duties such as helping with special needs education and training, as well as monitoring health and behavior. They help implement the strategies provided by occupational and physical therapists. QMRPs primarily handle the day-to-day development of individuals with intellectual disabilities, assessing the development and learning rate for each patient and then working with other care professionals to adjust strategies for helping each person achieve positive outcomes on their mental and cognitive development and care. The QMRP assesses progress and notes all difficulties and successes.
QMRPs are expected to attend regular weekly or bi-weekly staff meetings and give reports assessing the efficacy of each patient's progress and the learning and development strategies implemented. QMRPs are expected to take an active role in helping other therapy professionals in adjusting and developing new care approaches as necessary. QMRPs also create and adjust goals for each person in their care and provide feedback to guardians and other care professionals as to how the person is progressing toward these goals.
To work as a QMRP, a person generally must have at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as education, typically with an emphasis on the care and understanding of the unique requirements for working with individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. QMRPs must also be certified, which typically requires continuing education as well as initial certification. Normally, a QMRP works in a clinical environment at a facility or institution specifically dedicated to the care and assistance of persons with severe intellectual disabilities.
Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP) Tasks
Monitor progress of program plans.
Develop, coordinate and monitor all aspects of treatment.
Approve all patient support plans and interventions.
Manage caseload and documentation.
Respond to deficiencies in services provided.