Home Care Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

The Physical Therapist is a registered professional who provides skilled physical therapy services on an intermittent basis to clients in their homes. These services are performed in accordance with physician's orders.

Primary Functions

• Assists in the admission of the client to the Agency by: o Initial and ongoing assessment to determine level of functioning, including OASIS assessments at appropriate time points o Obtaining a medical history, particularly as it relates to the present condition. o Interpreting Physical Therapy Agency services to client and families as a part of planning for care. o Assuring appropriateness of physician's orders and discussing necessary changes.
• Makes arrangements for out-patient services when appropriate.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of Physical Therapy intervention and updates the client care plan as needed.
• Instructs clients and their families in the use of prosthetic, orthotic and assistive devices (canes, walkers, wheelchairs, etc.).
• Instructs the family in the client's total physical therapy program.
• Records and reports to the physician the client's reaction to treatment and/or any changes in the client's condition. Communicates with the physician at least whenever changes occur regarding client status and obtains additional orders, if necessary.
• Communicates with other team members (including Home Health Aides) and, when appropriate, instructs them in certain phases of physical therapy that they may use while working with the client.
• Prepares an assessment of the client's condition and periodic evaluations and summaries.
• Develops a plan of care and problem list.
• Writes clinical/progress notes on the date of the visit and incorporates same in the client's record within 72 hours.
• Supervises the home health aide every two weeks when physical therapy is the only professional discipline involved in the client's care. Supervises the Physical Therapy Assistant at least once monthly as outlined in the physical therapy assistant job description.

Supervisory Responsibilities

The supervisory responsibilities for this position include the direct supervision of the Physical Therapy Assistants.

Qualifications (Education and/or Experience)

Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year College or technical school; or six months to one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Must have at least 2 years' Physical Therapy experience.

Language Skills

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Registered Physical Therapist in the State of Florida and CPR certification.

This position requires a background screening through the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. For information on the requirements, please visit the Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website at