Definition:

The Physical Therapist Assistant is a skilled technical provider of physical therapy treatments and related duties working under the direction of the Physical Therapist.

Line of Authority:

Physical Therapist; Director of Therapy Services, Administrator/Director of Services

Qualifications:

1. Must have an Associate’s Degree from a recognized Physical Therapist Assistant Program accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association.
2. Must be licensed in the state in which the assistant will be practicing.
3. Active member of state and national Physical Therapy Associations preferred.

Performance Requirements:

1. Able to transfer, lift and guard patients safely with appropriate assistance.
2. Able to bend, stoop, squat and lift numerous times daily (70 – 80 lbs) in the care of patients and use of equipment.
3. Able to carry out fine motor skills with manual dexterity.
4. Mental acuity, judgment and skills to adequately and safely perform job requirements.
5. Able to see and hear adequately in order to respond to auditory and visual needs and clinical indications of the patients.
6. Able to learn, absorb and apply professional training.
7. Able to speak in a clear, concise voice in order to communicate adequately.
8. Able to read, write and edit documentation.
9. Must have reliable personal transportation.

Specific Responsibilities:

1. Provides physical therapy services as directed by the physical therapist and ordered by the physician according to policies and procedures and state/federal regulation.
2. Assists the physical therapist with evaluation of progress toward goals.
3. Observes records and reports to the therapist the conditions, reactions and responses related to assigned duties.
4. Maintains daily records of treatments. Documents progress notes regarding patients as directed by the therapist.
5. Assists the therapist in consulting with patients, family members and other health care professionals as appropriate.
6. Assists the physical therapist with inservice programs and other meetings as assigned by the physical therapist.
7. Contributes to physical therapy related CQI, as requested.
8. Participates in interdisciplinary conferences to maintain continuity of patient care.
9. May serve as Advisory Board member as requested by the Administrator/Director.