Physical Therapist at Jefferson County Health Center – Fairfield, Iowa

POSITION OVERVIEW (exempt):

The staff licensed physical therapist evaluates, examines, treats, monitors and provides ongoing assessment of patients/clients; performs all necessary paperwork/reports; plans and develops new programs; maintains communication with patients/clients, patient/client family, caregiver and physician and contract site staff; presents in-services; assists in general management of the department; supervises therapy assistants and support staff; and other diverse duties as requested or required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in physical therapy or Doctorate degree in physical therapy.
• Physical Therapy board certification and licensure according to state regulations.
• Supervisor's license as required by state.
• Valid Driver's license.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

Reports to Therapy Services Manager

DIRECT REPORTS:

Physical Therapist Assistant; Therapy Services Technician

POSITION-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Evaluate/assess the patient/client and determine a treatment plan using approved examination and evaluation procedures. Interpret evaluation findings and communicate the treatment plan to the patient/client, family, caregiver and care team.
• Prepare necessary documentation including evaluations, daily notes, progress notes, updated plans of care, discharge summaries and logs in a timely manner according to federal, state and facility-specific rules and regulations.
• Consult with other members of the Therapy Department to select treatment programs consistent with the needs and capabilities of the patient and to coordinate comprehensive services delivery.
• Develop effective home programs to maintain and enhance patient/client performance in his/her environment.
• Develop treatment protocols/procedures using evidence-based guidelines, patient/client specific goals, timely documentation, and discharge recommendations.
• Develop and initiate referrals from licensed healthcare professionals.
• Respond in a timely manner to referrals.
• Develop effective rapport with referring healthcare practitioners.
• Present a positive service-oriented approach with patients/clients, family, caregivers, facility, staff, and co-workers at all times.
• Monitor patient/client progress and modify the treatment plan and procedures as appropriate.
• Review the patient/client treatment program to maintain effective and efficient quality service.
• Train therapists in skills and techniques required for participation in activities and evaluate therapists’ functional progress.
• Assist with orientation of new staff, volunteers, and students. Supervise physical therapy assistants in accordance with federal and state regulations.
• 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.
• Complete Jefferson County Health Center reports as required.
• Assist with development of programs.
• Attend department meetings and conferences.
• Understand and comply with Jefferson County Health Center policies and procedures, including but not limited to, universal precautions, safety, risk, and emergency.
• 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.

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