Physical Therapist

• JOB SUMMARY 

The physical therapist contracted or employed through the Organization is responsible for providing physical therapy services and for adherence to all conditions outlined in the Personnel Services Agreement. 

• DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Assumes responsibility for the ongoing interdisciplinary assessment and development of the individualized plan of care in partnership with the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s); 

• Provides patient, caregiver, and family counseling; 

• Provides patient and caregiver education; 

• Prepares clinical notes, and progress summaries based on the attainment of goals; 

• Communicates with the physician who is responsible for the home health plan of care and other health care practitioners (as appropriate) related to the current home health plan of care; 

• Provides physical therapy services to patients according to a written physician's plan of care. This may include, but will not be limited to: 

• Assessing and evaluating therapeutic/rehabilitative/functional status, and participation in the development of the total plan of care.  Evaluates home environment. 

• Assesses for muscle strength, mobility, gait, ROM—potential for rehab. 

• Directing physical therapy treatment. 

• Instructing patients and families/caregivers in the use and care of therapeutic appliances. 

• Determining priority needs for physical therapy 

• Reporting to physician patient’s reaction to treatment or changes in condition. 

• Initiates physical therapy program and instructs other personnel and/or family/caregiver members in certain phases of physical therapy with which they may work with a patient, as well as instructing them as to the goals of the physical therapy program for the patient by participating in case conferences. 

• May train patient in the use of prosthetic device.  

• Identifies patient and family/caregiver needs for other home health services and refers as necessary. 

• Participates in discharge planning for patient. 

• Provides in-service education programs for nursing organization personnel as needed. 

• Participates in peer consultation process. 

• When therapy is the only skilled service, instructs, supervises and evaluates home health aide care every two (2) weeks. 

• Supervises Physical Therapy Assistants according to organization policy and state regulations. 

• Participates in the HHA's quality assessment and performance improvement program and HHA-sponsored in-service training. 

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by the employee of this job.  The employee may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description. 

• JOB REQUIREMENTS (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities) 

• Licensed to practice as physical therapist within the State, if applicable. 

• Passed an examination for physical therapists approved by the state and possesses a degree from a baccalaureate or master’s program in physical therapy approved by the Commission on accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (“CAPTE”) or any successor organization of the CAPTE.  

• Two years of appropriate experience as a physical therapist.  Community/home health experience is preferred. 

• Demonstrates good verbal and written communication and organization skills. 

• Possesses and maintains current CPR certification. 

• The ability to drive and/or have access to transportation for agency related travel (e.g. community partners, patients, etc.) is an essential function of the job.  Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, maintain automobile insurance coverage and have access to an automobile.