Job description
Job Title/Position: Physical Therapist
Reports To: Clinical Supervisor
JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
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 Service Employment Agreement.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Provides physical therapy services to patients according to a written individualized plan of care and within the scope of the Physical Therapy Practice Act. This may include, but not be limited to:
A. Assessing and evaluating therapeutic/rehabilitative/functional status, and participation in the development of the total plan of care. Evaluates home environment.
B. Assesses for muscle strength, mobility, gait, ROM and transfer capabilities. Less a goal of rehab, more a focus on maintaining comfort.
C. Directing physical therapy treatment.
D. Provides equipment required to increase patient function and independence.
E. Instructing patients and families/caregivers in the use and care of therapeutic appliances.
F. Determining priority needs for physical therapy
G. Reporting to physician patient's reaction to treatment or changes in condition.
2. Initiates physical therapy program and instructs other personnel and/or family/ caregivers 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 participat-ing in case conferences.
3. May educate patient in the use of prosthetic device.
4. Prepares and submits clinical and progress summaries based on the attainment of goals.
5. Participates in patient discharge planning. Prepares and submits a clinical progress summary based on the attainment of goals directed by organization policy.
6. Provides physical therapy consultation to families/caregivers, as appropriate.
7. Provides inservice education programs for nursing personnel as needed.
8. Participates in the interdisciplinary group.
9. Actively participates in the quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
10. Participates in orientation program for hospice team members.
11. Provides supervision of physical therapy assistants and hospice aides, as appropriate.
The above statements are intended to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
1. Possesses a degree from a baccalaureate or masters program in physical therapy approved by an accredited organization. Meets personnel qualification stated in §418.114(b)(7).
2. Licensed to practice as physical therapist within the state.
3. At least two (2) years of appropriate experience as a physical therapist. Community/hospice experience is preferred.
4. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills.
5. Must be licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state and/or organization requirements and is in good working order.
6. Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.
7. Understands hospice philosophy, focus of care is comfort vs. rehab and to maintain care in their residence as long as possible.