Physical Therapy Assistant

Position Summary

The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides skilled physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT) in an outpatient rehabilitation setting. The PTA assists in implementing individualized treatment plans designed to improve patients’ mobility, strength, balance, function, and overall quality of life. The PTA works collaboratively with patients, providers, and interdisciplinary healthcare team members to achieve optimal patient outcomes while maintaining compliance with all applicable federal, state, and organizational regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Administer physical therapy treatments and interventions as directed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
• Implement individualized treatment plans established by the Physical Therapist.
• Monitor patient response to treatment and report changes in patient status to the supervising PT.
• Instruct patients and caregivers in therapeutic exercises, functional mobility training, and home exercise programs.
• Utilize therapeutic modalities and treatment techniques within the PTA scope of practice.
• Document patient treatments, progress, and outcomes accurately and timely in the electronic medical record.
• Maintain treatment areas, equipment, and supplies in a clean and safe condition.
• Assist with patient scheduling and coordination of care as needed.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and care planning activities.
• Ensure compliance with Medicare, Medi-Cal, commercial payer requirements, and applicable regulatory standards.
• Promote patient satisfaction through exceptional customer service and compassionate care.
• Maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
• Participate in departmental quality improvement initiatives and performance improvement activities.

Requirements

Qualifications: :

Education

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.

Licensure/Certification

• Current California Physical Therapist Assistant License in good standing.
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification through the American Heart Association or equivalent.

Experience

• Previous outpatient physical therapy experience preferred.
• New graduates are encouraged to apply.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, and interventions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to establish positive relationships with patients, families, providers, and staff.
• Knowledge of applicable Medicare, Medi-Cal, and insurance documentation requirements.
• Ability to work independently within the scope of PTA practice.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records and documentation systems.
• Commitment to providing patient-centered care.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Ability to assist patients with transfers, ambulation, and therapeutic activities.
• Ability to lift, transfer, and move equipment and patients in accordance with safe patient handling guidelines.
• Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and up to 20 pounds frequently.