Physical Therapist Assistant at Jefferson County Health Center – Fairfield, Iowa

POSITION OVERVIEW (non exempt):

The physical therapy assistant follows through with treatment plans established by the physical therapist for patients/clients referred for physical therapy services; treats, monitors, and provides ongoing assessment of patients/clients; performs all necessary paperwork/reports; maintains communication with supervising physical therapist, patients/clients, patient/client family, caregiver, physician and contract site staff; presents in-services; and other diverse duties as requested or required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate’s degree (A.A.) in Physical Therapy Assistant
• Physical Therapy Assistant board certification and licensure according to state regulations.
• Supervisor's license as required by state.
• Valid Driver's license.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Ability to write simple correspondence.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one settings to patients/clients, family, caregivers, facility, staff, and other employees of the organization.
• Ability to relate positively, professionally, and cooperatively with others.
• Ability to perform the essential work functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

Reports to Therapy Services Manager; Physical Therapist

DIRECT REPORTS:

None

POSITION-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Implement treatment plans established by the supervising physical therapist.
• Inform the supervising physical therapist of any significant change in patients’/clients’ medical status, condition, complexity and/or acuity, which may necessitate changes to established treatment plans.
• Provide recommendations to the supervising physical therapist on treatment plan adjustments when necessary to progress patients/clients or discontinue services.
• Prepare necessary documentation including daily notes and logs in a timely manner according to federal, state and facility-specific rules and regulations.
• Consult with other members of the therapy team to help develop treatment programs consistent with the needs and capabilities of the patient/client and to coordinate comprehensive services delivery.
• Develop effective home programs to maintain and enhance patient/client performance in his/her environment.
• Understand and comply with supervisory rules and regulations required by the state of employment.
• Perform clerical duties such as answering the phone, taking messages, inventory checks, form completion, and insurance authorization tracking.
• Present a positive service-oriented approach with patients/clients, family, caregivers, facility, staff, and co-workers at all times.
• Assist with orientation of new staff, volunteers, and students.
• Assist with equipment maintenance and monitor supply inventory.
• Demonstrate ongoing commitment to reducing costs and improving productivity in the therapy department.
• Demonstrate the ability to handle changing schedule of patients/clients.
• Maintain positive working relationships with the healthcare team, patient/client, family, and caregiver.
• Assist with Quality Assurance reports and records.
• Assist with development of programs.
• Understand and comply with Jefferson County Health Center policies and procedures, including but not limited to, universal precautions, safety, risk, and emergency.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Works in a well-illuminated, climate-controlled environment
• May come in contact with hazardous chemical or treatment modalities
• Possibility exists of exposure to communicable diseases
• Involvement in inpatient care may result in unavoidable work-related illness or injury
• Work environment is comfortable, with minimal exposure to physical hazards
• Moderate to loud noise environment when machines/equipment in use
• Involvement in checking in/moving of supplies may result in unavoidable work-related injury
• Must be constantly alert for patient/family emergency situations