Physical Therapist (PT) - Outpatient

Job Description

Job Description

The role involves interpreting physician referrals as necessary and conducting evaluations related to musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiopulmonary, and/or integumentary systems using suitable methods.

Based on evaluation findings and functional objectives, a personalized care plan is developed and implemented. The outcomes are monitored and assessed, allowing for adjustments to the treatment plan according to the patient's response. Additionally, the role includes identifying factors that impact the patient's physical and psychosocial comfort and addressing these needs.

Responsibilities also encompass planning and executing patient discharge, which includes providing written home programs, educating patients and their families, referring to community services, and coordinating transitions within the continuum of care. Effective communication and collaboration with relevant stakeholders are essential to ensure optimal patient care.

All necessary documentation must be completed in accordance with departmental policies and accreditation standards, including patient evaluations, progress notes, team conference reports, and discharge summaries. Daily statistics, billing, and scheduling tasks are also part of the role, along with adhering to insurance guidelines regarding authorizations and visit limits. Maintaining established productivity standards for the site/department is crucial, as is understanding and following all billing and documentation policies and timelines.

Post-treatment responsibilities include cleaning the treatment area, organizing equipment, and ensuring the workspace remains tidy. The role requires performing various manual techniques, patient positioning, and transportation duties, which involve lifting and pushing/pulling while adhering to proper techniques. Proficiency in using modalities, exercise equipment, and other devices is expected, along with knowledge of their indications and contraindications. Promoting patient safety by participating in safety initiatives and following all safety and infection control protocols is also essential.

Engagement in performance improvement activities aimed at identifying and resolving issues that affect patient care outcomes is expected. The individual will manage their caseload, keeping site leadership informed about coverage needs and assisting with coverage based on departmental and regional requirements.

Professional development is encouraged through participation in continuing education courses, departmental in-services, and reviewing professional literature. The role may involve orienting new staff to clinical and departmental policies as needed and providing feedback during the evaluation process of colleagues.

Supervision of physical therapy assistants may be required, ensuring compliance with state and local regulations. This includes delegating tasks to assistive personnel while providing guidance and maintaining responsibility for the patient’s care plan and goals. Supervision of physical therapy extenders (rehab aides/techs) in administering treatments and teaching them appropriate techniques may also be part of the role. Additionally, supervision of physical therapy students may occur after completing one year of clinical experience.

Education

A Doctorate in Physical Therapy from an accredited institution or equivalent educational qualifications based on the graduation date. Continuing education requirements must be maintained as mandated by relevant state professional standards.

Certification / Registration / License

Must hold a valid Physical Therapist license in the state of practice. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification for Healthcare Providers is required within 90 days unless exempted by the department leader, as recognized by the American Heart Association (AHA).

Work Experience

No prior experience is necessary.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Intermediate computer proficiency
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Proven organizational, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities
• Completion of all competency assessments related to patient care in line with site standards
• Annual educational requirements for hospital-based certifications (e.g., DNV, CARF, etc.) must be maintained.
• Ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary for age-appropriate care, understanding growth and development principles, and assessing patient data to meet age-specific needs.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Must be capable of sitting, standing, walking, lifting, and squatting throughout the workday.

Specific lifting requirements include:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
• Ability to lift up to 10 lbs. from waist to overhead.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs. at waist height over a reasonable distance.

Must also be able to:

• Push/pull with a force of 30 lbs.
• Perform a sliding transfer of 150 lbs. with assistance.

The position requires repetitive hand use, including:

• Simple grasping (5-15 lbs.) for 20% of the workday.
• Pushing/pulling (up to 75-100 lbs.) for 10% of the day.
• Fine manipulation during massage and joint mobilization.

Functional use of senses is necessary for effective communication.

Exposure to electrical and chemical hazards, as well as blood and body fluids, necessitates the ability to wear protective clothing as required.

Travel may be required, exposing the individual to road and weather hazards.

All necessary equipment for job performance must be operated effectively.

Education

Details not specified.

Certification / Registration / License

Details not specified.

Experience

Details not specified.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

Details not specified.

DISCLAIMER

All responsibilities and requirements are subject to modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

This job description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed by an employee in this position. Employees are expected to follow any other job-related instructions and perform additional duties as requested by their supervisors.