Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistant

The Health Services Agency is seeking a compassionate and skilled Physical Therapist Assistant with pediatric experience serving children with complex medical conditions. They demonstrate expertise in implementing treatment plans and evidence-based interventions under the direction of a Physical Therapist, while collaborating effectively with interdisciplinary teams, caregivers, and families. The candidate is organized, adaptable, and committed to providing culturally responsive, family-centered care that supports improved functional outcomes for children served through the California Children's Services Medical Therapy Program (MTP).

Under medical direction and the supervision of a physical therapist, the physical therapist assistant performs therapy for physically disabled clients ranging in age from birth to 21 years who are eligible for services through the California Children's Services Medical Therapy Program. Services are primarily provided in an outpatient clinic setting but may also be provided within the home/community to address equipment needs and caregiver training. This classification requires specialized knowledge in pediatric care, physical therapy laws and regulations, and will work on an interdisciplinary team with parents and other professionals. The physical therapist assistant is expected to exercise clinical judgement and adapt treatment interventions within the parameters of the established plan of care based on the patient's response, while communicating significant changes to the Physical Therapist.

Typical Tasks

• Implement individualized treatment plans established by the Physical Therapist;
• Report patient response to treatment and changes in patient's functional status to the physical therapist;
• Monitor patient's progress and consult with physical therapist to modify treatment plans;
• Maintain accurate clinical records and prepare written patient progress reports;
• Assist in gathering patient assessment data;
• Attend clinics, case conferences, staff meetings, and in-service training;
• Assist in evaluating for and ordering durable medical equipment and orthotics and instruct patients and caregivers in its use;
• Participate in the IEP process and represent the Medical Therapy Program;
• Consult with patient's caregivers and any other agencies involved in the care of assigned patients;
• Maintains treatment areas, equipment and supplies in a clean, safe, and organized condition; may adjust and make minor repairs to equipment;
• Performs other related duties.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education/Experience)

SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Demonstrate to patients and others, acceptable therapeutic techniques utilized in a wide variety of physical therapies;
• Follow, understand, and implement a licensed therapist's written or oral directions regarding physical therapy treatment plans;
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing;
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with patients, families, staff and others;
• Motivate patients;
• Utilize computers and standard office automation equipment;
• Complete accurate medical records and/or charts; prepare reports;
• Physical stamina to assist patients with mobility and exercise activities.

KNOWLEDGE

• Principles, methods, materials, and equipment used in physical therapy;
• Basic principles of anatomy and physiology;
• Safe methods of positioning patients for treatment;
• Body mechanics and safety procedures;
• Possible hazards to patients during treatment and necessary precautionary and remedial measures;
• Basic medical record keeping; basic computer operations, including pertinent software.
• English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.

Education/Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program or equivalent.

License and Certificate:

• Possess and maintain a current license as a Physical Therapist Assistant by the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTBOC)
• May be required to possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License; depending on the nature of assignment.

Proof of education is required for verification purposes at the time of application. Applicants who are unable to submit proof must call View phone number on click.appcast.io to make other arrangements before 5 pm on the final filing date. Failure to submit proof or make other arrangements before the final filing deadline will result in disqualification.