Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

The Physical Therapist has the direct responsibility for physical therapy services in the Sevierville Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) as assigned. In addition, the PT is also expected to provide patient care duties and develop and participate in specialized treatment programs. The PT will provide these services to patients with a wide variety of multiple, complex illnesses and/or profound disabilities. Major Duties: The PT independently completes a review/examination of patient data (including medical history) to develop a plan of care, assess patient's status, and ascertain patient's need for therapy services.

Interviews patients and caregivers to gather information for ongoing patient assessment.

Assesses goals, living skills, physical abilities, and related needs for each patient referred.

Evaluations include medical history, examination, results and interpretation of appropriate functional tests and measurements such as: range of motion, muscle testing, sensory/perceptual deficits, coordination, functional mobility, pain scales, appropriate self-report and performance-based outcome measures, and social/contextual factors/needs. Tests are frequently complex and may need to be adapted because of multiple physical disabilities or present medical conditions. Complex evaluations are conducted without consultation with other therapists.

Evaluations address rehabilitation potential, behavior, motor skills, and psychosocial development. Barriers to learning are identified and strategies to overcome them developed and implemented to ensure accurate patient evaluation.

Develops a treatment plan directed toward achieving maximum level of functioning within the home or other setting, consulting with other PM&RS disciplines as indicated, and developing the plan in collaboration with the patient and caregiver.

Implements the treatment plan by: solving complex problems related to physical therapy; providing direct patient care; working with Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service to provide appropriate equipment/adaptive devices; instructing and training the veteran and caregiver concerning exercises, activities of daily living, rehabilitation techniques, and equipment. The PT may also recommend community referrals.

Performs ongoing assessment of patient's physical and functional status, revising treatment plan and goals as clinically indicated. Adapts and modifies treatment plans, activities, and procedures to meet the needs of patients with complex disabilities.

Determines patient's ongoing need for services.

Identifies when patient's maximum level of function has been attained.

Determines when patients have attained established goals and uses independent judgment in termination of rehabilitation services.

Evaluates the need for additional services and uses professional judgment to initiate consultation with other professionals.

Clinical practice is expected to be congruent with evidence-based practice standards, established clinical practice guidelines, as well as current concepts as outlined by the APTA.

Coordinates intervention plans with other members of the treatment team.

Serves as content expert in assessing for and recommending complex specialized medical equipment related to physical therapy.

Participates in and presents patients' needs at Special Equipment Committee in accordance with VHA directives and medical center memorandum for specialty items.

Participates in professional and community activities.

Participates in the Performance Improvement Program, including completing assessment and documentation required by performance measures applicable to the PT's role.

Participates in interdisciplinary team conferences in person, by telephone, or through electronic mail exchanges.

Serves as a clinical instructor for affiliating physical therapy and physical therapy assistant students.

Attends and participates in PM&RS monthly meetings and other meetings as assigned.

Work Schedule: 7:45 am - 4:30 pm

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 61149F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized