Physical Therapy

The physical therapist contracted or employed through the Organization is responsible for providing physical therapy services and for adherence to all conditions outlined in the Personnel Services Agreement.

• DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

1.       Assumes responsibility for the ongoing interdisciplinary assessment and development of the individualized plan of care in partnership with the patient, representative (if any), and caregiver(s);

2.       Provides patient, caregiver, and family counseling;

3.       Provides patient and caregiver education;

4.       Prepares clinical notes, and progress summaries based on the attainment of goals;

5.       Communicates with the physician who is responsible for the home health plan of care and other health care practitioners (as appropriate) related to the current home health plan of care;

• Provides physical therapy services to patients according to a written physician's plan of care. This may include, but will not be limited to:
  • Assessing and evaluating therapeutic/rehabilitative/functional status, and participation in the development of the total plan of care.  Evaluates home environment.
  • Assesses for muscle strength, mobility, gait, ROM—potential for rehab.
  • Directing physical therapy treatment.
  • Instructing patients and families/caregivers in the use and care of therapeutic appliances.
  • Determining priority needs for physical therapy
  • Reporting to physician patient’s reaction to treatment or changes in condition.
• Initiates physical therapy program and instructs other personnel and/or family/caregiver members in certain phases of physical therapy with which they may work with a patient, as well as instructing them as to the goals of the physical therapy program for the patient by participating in case conferences.
• May train patient in the use of prosthetic device.
• Identifies patient and family/caregiver needs for other home health services and refers as necessary.
• Participates in discharge planning for patient.
• Provides in-service education programs for nursing organization personnel as needed.
• Participates in peer consultation process.
• When therapy is the only skilled service, instructs, supervises and evaluates home health aide care every two (2) weeks.
• Supervises Physical Therapy Assistants according to organization policy and state regulations.

15.   Participates in the HHA's quality assessment and performance improvement program and HHA-sponsored in-service training.

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by the employee of this job.  The employee may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

• JOB REQUIREMENTS (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)
  • Licensed to practice as physical therapist within the State, if applicable.
  • Passed an examination for physical therapists approved by the state and possesses a degree from a baccalaureate or master’s program in physical therapy approved by the Commission on accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (“CAPTE”) or any successor organization of the CAPTE.
  • Two years of appropriate experience as a physical therapist.  Community/home health experience is preferred.
  • Demonstrates good verbal and written communication and organization skills.
  • Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.
  • The ability to drive and/or have access to transportation for agency related travel (e.g. community partners, patients, etc.) is an essential function of the job.  Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, maintain automobile insurance coverage and have access to an automobile.