Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical Therapy Assistant

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) supports the delivery of rehabilitative care for individuals with neurodevelopmental and complex medical conditions. Working under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, the PTA helps implement evidence-based treatment plans to improve mobility, function, and quality of life. This role requires collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, attention to behavioral and developmental needs, and a commitment to clinical excellence, patient advocacy, and regulatory compliance.

Service

o Consistently supports and communicates the Mission, Vision, and Values of Nexus Health Systems

o Upholds the Standards of conduct and corporate compliance

o Demonstrates honest behavior in all matters. To the best of the employee's knowledge and understanding, complies with all Federal and State laws and regulations.

o Maintains the privacy and security of all confidential and protected health information. Uses and discloses only that information which is necessary to perform the function of the job.

o Adheres to all Nexus Health Systems policies on Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), designed to prevent or detect unauthorized disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI)

o Collaborates effectively with colleagues and other departments to ensure seamless service delivery.

Clinical Excellence

o Apply evidence-based practice techniques to improve motor control, postural alignment, and functional movement in patients with neurodevelopmental and behavioral challenges.

o Monitor and document patient progress, adjusting interventions as needed in collaboration with the supervising therapist.

o Utilize assistive technologies and adaptive equipment to support patient goals and safety.

o Deliver physical therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, focusing on patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.

o Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including occupational therapists, behavioral specialists, and medical staff to ensure holistic care.

o Assist in the development and implementation of individualized treatment plans that promote mobility, independence, and participation in daily activities.

Patient Experience and Advocacy

o Foster a supportive and empathetic environment for patients and families, recognizing the emotional and behavioral complexities of neurodevelopmental conditions.

o Educate caregivers on home exercise programs, safety, and equipment use to promote continuity of care.

o Advocate for patient needs within the care team and ensure culturally sensitive communication.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

o Ensures all activities adhere to healthcare regulations and organizational policies.

o Participates in quality improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery.

o Promotes a culture of patient safety which results in the identification and reduction of unsafe practices.

o Adhere to the APTA Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant and comply with all federal, state, and institutional regulations.

o Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives and contribute to documentation audits and peer reviews.

o Maintain accurate and timely records in accordance with HIPAA and hospital policies.

Professional Growth and Continuing Education

o Completes annual education requirements.

o Maintains competency, as evidenced by completion of competency validation requirements.

o Maintains competency and knowledge of current standards of practice, trends, and developments.

o Participates in relevant workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses to stay current with industry trends, healthcare regulations, and best practices.

o Engage in lifelong learning through continuing education, mentorship, and participation in professional organization. o Attend in-service training and contribute to departmental knowledge-sharing.

o Stay current with clinical practice guidelines from APTA and other relevant bodies.

Finance

o Promotes stewardship of hospital resources while ensuring quality patient care.

o Support cost-effective care delivery by optimizing resource use and minimizing waste.

o Understand billing procedures and documentation requirements to ensure compliance with payer policies.

o Contribute to departmental budgeting discussions by identifying equipment and training needs.

Performs other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:

Associate degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.

EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of 6 months experience working in acute care hospital/rehabilitation center setting.

Minimum of 12 years of experience in pediatric or neurodevelopmental rehabilitation preferred.

Experience working with patients exhibiting behavioral challenges and complex medical needs is highly desirable.

SKILLS:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially with children and families.

Proficiency in therapeutic exercise techniques, sensory integration, and mobility training.

Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating awareness of team dynamics and effective coordination.

Competence in Electronic Health Record (EHR) documentation, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant clinical records.

Adaptability in dynamic clinical environments and responsiveness to behavioral and medical complexities.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

Current licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant in the State of Texas.

Additional certifications in physical therapy or behavioral health are a plus.

BLS (Basic Life Support) from American Heart Association/American Red Cross required, must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from date of hire.

De-escalation training within 30 days after hire.

Must maintain current certification in good standing during employment with this facility.