Physical Therapist

Staff Licensed Physical Therapist

The staff licensed physical therapist evaluates, examines, treats, monitors and provides ongoing assessment of patients/clients; performs all necessary paperwork/reports; plans and develops new programs; maintains communication with patients/clients, patient/client family, caregiver and physician and contract site staff; presents in-services; assists in general management of the department; supervises therapy assistants and support staff; and other diverse duties as requested or required.

Qualifications: Master’s degree in physical therapy or Doctorate degree in physical therapy. Physical Therapy board certification and licensure according to state regulations. Supervisor’s license as required by state. Valid Driver’s license.

Accountability: Reports to Therapy Services Manager Direct reports: Physical Therapist Assistant; Therapy Services Technician

Position-specific requirements include evaluating/assessing the patient/client and determining a treatment plan using approved examination and evaluation procedures. Interpret evaluation findings and communicate the treatment plan to the patient/client, family, caregiver and care team. Prepare necessary documentation including evaluations, daily notes, progress notes, updated plans of care, discharge summaries and logs in a timely manner according to federal, state and facility-specific rules and regulations. Consult with other members of the Therapy Department to select treatment programs consistent with the needs and capabilities of the patient and to coordinate comprehensive services delivery. Develop effective home programs to maintain and enhance patient/client performance in his/her environment. Develop treatment protocols/procedures using evidence-based guidelines, patient/client specific goals, timely documentation, and discharge recommendations. Develop and initiate referrals from licensed healthcare professionals. Respond in a timely manner to referrals. Develop effective rapport with referring healthcare practitioners. Present a positive service-oriented approach with patients/clients, family, caregivers, facility, staff, and co-workers at all times. Monitor patient/client progress and modify the treatment plan and procedures as appropriate. Review the patient/client treatment program to maintain effective and efficient quality service. Train therapists in skills and techniques required for participation in activities and evaluate therapists’ functional progress. Assist with orientation of new staff, volunteers, and students. Supervise physical therapy assistants in accordance with federal and state regulations. Assist with equipment maintenance and monitor supply inventory. Demonstrate ongoing commitment to reducing costs and improving productivity in the therapy department. Demonstrate the ability to handle changing schedule of patients/clients. Maintain positive working relationships with the healthcare team, patient/client, family, and caregiver. Assist with Quality Assurance reports and records. Complete Jefferson County Health Center reports as required. Assist with development of programs. Attend department meetings and conferences. Understand and comply with Jefferson County Health Center policies and procedures, including but not limited to, universal precautions, safety, risk, and emergency. Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one settings to patients/clients, family, caregivers, facility, staff, and other employees of the organization. Ability to relate positively, professionally, and cooperatively with others. Ability to perform the essential work functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Work environment: Works in a well-illuminated, climate-controlled environment. May come in contact with hazardous chemical or treatment modalities. Possibility exists of exposure to communicable diseases. Involvement in inpatient care may result in unavoidable work-related illness or injury. Work environment is comfortable, with minimal exposure to physical hazards. Moderate to loud noise environment when machines/equipment in use. Involvement in checking in/moving of supplies may result in unavoidable work-related injury. Must be constantly alert for patient/family emergency situations.