Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist Job Description

Position Summary

The Physical Therapist (PT) is responsible for evaluating, developing, and implementing individualized treatment plans designed to restore function, reduce pain, improve mobility, and prevent disability. The PT collaborates with physicians, physician assistants, medical assistants, and other healthcare professionals to provide high-quality, patient-centered care while maintaining compliance with all federal, state, and professional standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive physical therapy evaluations.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on physician referrals and patient needs.
• Establish measurable functional goals and modify treatment plans as appropriate.
• Administer therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, neuromuscular re-education, gait training, balance training, and therapeutic modalities.
• Educate patients and caregivers regarding home exercise programs, injury prevention, and recovery expectations.
• Monitor patient progress and document outcomes accurately in the electronic medical record.
• Communicate regularly with referring physicians regarding patient status and treatment recommendations.
• Ensure timely and complete documentation that meets payer, Medicare, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
• Participate in multidisciplinary care planning and case discussions.
• Assist with scheduling recommendations and coordination of care.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe treatment environment.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and report equipment concerns promptly.
• Stay current with evidence-based physical therapy practices through continuing education.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and departmental meetings.
• Comply with all practice policies, OSHA standards, infection control procedures, and safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited physical therapy program.

Licensure

• Current Florida Physical Therapist License in good standing.
• Current CPR/BLS certification.

Experience

• One or more years of outpatient orthopedic experience preferred.
• Experience treating post-operative orthopedic patients is highly desirable.
• Sports medicine experience is a plus.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of orthopedic anatomy and biomechanics.
• Experience with post-operative rehabilitation protocols.
• Excellent manual therapy skills.
• Strong clinical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
• Excellent communication and patient education skills.
• Ability to build rapport with patients of all ages.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR).
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and assist patients safely.
• Frequent bending, reaching, kneeling, and stooping.
• Ability to demonstrate therapeutic exercises and treatment techniques.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced outpatient orthopedic medical practice.
• Frequent interaction with physicians, physician assistants, athletic patients, workers' compensation patients, and post-surgical patients.
• Requires flexibility in scheduling to meet patient care demands.

Performance Expectations

The Physical Therapist is expected to:

• Deliver exceptional patient care and customer service.
• Maintain productivity standards established by the practice.
• Complete documentation accurately and within required timeframes.
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and compassion.
• Maintain compliance with Medicare, commercial insurance, and regulatory documentation requirements.
• Foster positive relationships with patients, coworkers, and referring providers.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on excellent clinical outcomes.

Benefits (if applicable)

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Continuing education assistance
• Professional license reimbursement
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution (if offered)