The Physical Therapist Assistant, under the supervision of the Physical Therapist, will assist in planning and ongoing assessment as well as provide treatment according to the Physical Therapist’s treatment plan of patients who have been evaluated by the Physical Therapist. The following is a summary of major essential functions of the Physical Therapist Assistant. Other duties may be performed, as permitted by Texas law and regulations of governing entities. Specific functions may, from time to time, change. These functions include:

• Provide physical therapy treatments as designated in the treatment plan of the physical therapist.
• Assure that all documentation is either co-signed by the supervising physical therapist or that the supervising is noted by name in each note.
• Supply complete and accurate billing information to appropriate staff in a proper and timely manner.
• Participate in and attend rehabilitation team conferences and clinic staff meetings as scheduled.
• Instruct patients and/or family members in use of therapeutic activities, exercises, or procedures that should be maintained and continued outside the environment of the clinic.
• Provide education related to Physical Therapy to staff and the general public upon request.
• Either attends and actively participates in or obtains an excused absence and arranges for make up for all mandatory meetings and in services.
• Demonstrate positive interpersonal communication skills while maintaining standards of professional ethics.

2. Communicate regularly with the physical therapist regarding patients’ progress and any needed changes in the treatment plan.

3. Complete all documentation that is required for each patient in a timely manner.

5. Safely apply any modalities as directed by the Physical Therapist (e.g. electrical stimulation, ultrasound, etc.).

6. Communicate to physicians, appropriate members of the staff, patient, and family members regarding patient needs and progress, either by documentation or, if necessary, direct contact.

7. Educate/train, schedule, and supervise appropriate tasks, which have been delegated to the techs.

10. Assist with clinical education of any Physical Therapist Assistant students in the clinic.

11. Observe patient confidentiality and follow HIPAA guidelines.

12. Monitor inventory of supplies and equipment. Request orders of needed supplies and equipment in a timely manner to avoid emergency ordering.

14. Maintain the well-being and safety of the patient during treatment.

15. Monitor equipment to be sure it is safe before using with a patient.

16. Keeps informed of changes and innovation in the field through professional contacts, literature, and workshops.

17. Continually pursue professional growth and act as a resource for expertise in the physical therapy field.

18. Assume personal responsibility for professional development and continuing education.

21. Suggest and develop new patient programs and ideas for treatment as appropriate.

23. Perform other duties, as delegated, required, or requested.

Qualifications

(1) Has graduated from a 2- year college- level program approved by the American Physical Therapy Association; or

• (2)Has 2 years of appropriate experience as a physical therapist assistant, and has achieved a satisfactory grade on a proficiency examination conducted, approved, or sponsored by the

U.S. Public Health Service, except that these determinations of proficiency do not apply with respect to persons initially licensed by a State or seeking initial qualification as a physical therapy assistant after December 31, 1977.

Physical Requirements

1. Capable to lift, guard, transfer and maneuver patients of all sizes and weights, utilizing assistance or special equipment as needed on a recurring basis and in a safe manner.

2. Manual dexterity and visual acuity to safely apply all necessary modalities and operation of equipment.

3. Must be able to follow written procedures and verbal directives.