Physical Therapy Specialist

Summary:

Assesses and treats neuromusculoskeletal & cardiorespiratory systems by physical or mechanical means to maintain or restore function that has been impaired by injury or disease, for pain management and for promotion of mobility and health as prescribed by the referring physician. Is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring the plan of care for the person served. Performs and directs administration of all physical therapy modalities & collaborates throughout the process with the patient and their family and the interdisciplinary team.

Responsibilities:

• Verifies physician orders prior to evaluation. Evaluates each patient before administering treatments, incorporating psychological and physical issues. Evaluations must include thorough reading of patient's chart & history; may include objective measurements relative to the patient’s diagnosis and condition. Completes the evaluation & establishes goals and plan of care in collaboration with the patient, his/her family and other healthcare workers as appropriate. 
• Administers and directs administration of all Physical Therapy treatment & modalities. Has knowledge of indications and contraindications. Calls the physician if treatment ordered is not indicated. 
• Acquisitions appropriate equipment, checks equipment being used for safety, and communicates the evaluation, treatment procedures and the use of the specific equipment to patient and family. 
• Applies or supervises appropriate treatments or modalities such as therapeutic exercises, hot moist packs, cryotherapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, continuous passive motion, paraffin, soft tissue mobilization, gait training, balance training and functional mobility training. Checking frequently with patient for tolerance of modality given. 
• Maintains contact with the referring physician regarding patient progress. Observes treatment effects & recommends changes to physician if indicated. 
• Assembles, organizes home programs for patients whenever indicated. Explains the program to patient, asking for return demonstrations and trains the family whenever indicated. 
• Directs and oversees PT Assistants and Rehabilitation Assistants during physical therapy treatments. Participates with on-the-job training of rehabilitation personnel. 
• Maintains records of all patient treatments as required, information must include but is not limited to, subjective & objective information, assessment and plan for each treatment given or specific documentation for a specific area in which the therapy if provided. The Physical Therapist approves and co-signs every progress note written by a PT/PT Assistant with temporary licensure. The Physical Therapist completes the discharge summary and sends them to the referring physician if indicated. 
• Promotes the team approach to delivery of rehabilitation services, while serving as a representative in the field of Physical Therapy. 
• In collaboration with the rehabilitation team, develops and implements measures for quality assurance and participates in performance improvement activities. 
• Maintains professional competence through continuing education and participation in appropriate professional groups. Obtains professional continuing education requirements to maintain licensure. 
• Ensures charges correlate with treatment session documentation and length of time in therapy.
• Maintains productivity standards.

Requirements:

Education:

• Doctorate, Masters, Bachelors or Associates Degree in Physical Therapy.

Experience:

• Demonstrates accountability and skills in assessment/evaluation, decision-making and time management. Should have strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication and organizational skills.

Certifications, Registrations, or Licenses:

• Current New Mexico Physical Therapist licensure
• BLS certification required.

Work Schedule:

5 Days - 8 Hours

Work Type:

Full Time