Physical Therapist I

Job Description

Be a part of a world-class academic healthcare system, UChicago Medicine , as a Physical Therapist I (Outpatient/Musculoskeletal) at the Hyde Park campus

Join a nationally recognized academic health system where physical therapists are valued as clinical experts, educators, and leaders. At UChicago Medicine, you will have the opportunity to care for complex orthopedic and musculoskeletal conditions, collaborate directly with physicians and multidisciplinary specialists, and work alongside a team in which advanced training and board specialty certification are strongly represented. Our therapists enjoy meaningful clinical autonomy, support for professional development, opportunities to pursue specialty interests, and the ability to contribute to research, quality improvement, program development, and strategic initiatives that shape rehabilitation services across the institution. This is an ideal opportunity for clinicians seeking a collaborative environment that combines exceptional patient care, continuous learning, and professional growth.

We are seeking a skilled Physical Therapist to join our Outpatient Musculoskeletal service line. This role offers the opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of patients and complex orthopedic conditions in a collaborative, academically oriented environment. You will be supported by experienced mentors, collaborate with highly skilled colleagues, and practice with meaningful clinical autonomy.

Our program also maintains a collaborative partnership with the renowned Shirley Ryan Abilitylab, providing access to advanced learning opportunities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and exposure to nationally recognized rehabilitation expertise.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conducts evaluations using appropriate tests and measurements to determine physical therapy problems, functional levels, and recommended treatment plans.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to establish patient disposition.
• Demonstrates knowledge of and applies patient care protocols that address the physical, psychosocial, and developmental needs of neonatal, pediatric, adult and geriatric populations. Includes patient goals in care plan.
• Adheres to departmental policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Participates in quality assurance activities as needed.
• Develops physical therapy interventions in collaboration with the patient/family, referring practitioner and treatment team goals.
• Competently performs appropriate physical therapy techniques and procedures.
• Ensures continuity of care through timely and effective written and verbal communication with team members and other treating disciplines, particularly when planning absences.
• Attends rounds, conferences, and clinics as assigned, providing patient updates and discharge recommendations.
• Identifies and recommends necessary patient care equipment prior to discharge and assists with procurement as appropriate.
• Accurately documents evaluations, progress notes, and all procedures performed within established timeframes.
• Completes compliant, timely, and accurate patient billing at the end of each day.
• Instructs patients and families in home exercise programs.
• Provides education on therapy diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plans.

Required Qualifications:

• Requires graduation from an approved physical therapy school.
• Requires current physical therapy license in the State of Illinois (or eligibility to practice)
• Active BLS certification from the American Heart Association (AHA).
• Knowledge and skills necessary to provide age-specific and appropriate care for the patient populations served.
• Basic computer proficiency.
• Strong interpersonal skills to foster positive interactions with patients, families, the multidisciplinary team, and external contacts.

Position Details:

• Job type/FTE: Full Time (1.0 FTE)
• Shift: Days - 8-hour shift
• Work Location: Hyde Park
• Unit/Department: Physical Therapy
• CBA Code: Non-Union