Physical Therapist Assistant - Outpatient Orthopedics

Responsibilities:

1. Patient Care:
   
   
   • Assist the supervising physical therapist in implementing treatment plans.
     
     
   • Instruct and guide patients through prescribed therapeutic exercises and functional activities.
     
     
   • Monitor and document patient progress and responses to treatment.
     
     
2. Treatment Execution:
   
   
   • Administer physical therapy modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat/cold packs as directed.
     
     
   • Perform manual therapy techniques if within state scope of practice.
     
     
3. Documentation:
   
   
   • Accurately document treatments provided, patient responses, and clinical observations in EMR.
     
     
   • Communicate changes or concerns in patient status to the supervising physical therapist.
     
     
4. Patient Education:
   
   
   • Educate patients on home exercise programs and proper body mechanics.
     
     
   • Encourage compliance with the treatment plan and answer patient questions within scope.
     
     
5. Clinic Operations Support:
   
   
   • Maintain cleanliness and organization of treatment areas.
     
     
   • Ensure equipment is functioning and report issues.
     
     
   • May assist with scheduling, front desk, or administrative tasks as needed in smaller clinics.
     
     
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   • Qualifications:

     1. Education & Licensure:
        
        
        • Associate Degree from an accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
          
          
        • Current state licensure or certification as a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA).
          
          
        • CPR/BLS certification (often required).
          
          
     2. Experience:
        
        
        • Preferred: 1–2 years of clinical experience, ideally in an outpatient orthopedic setting.
          
          
        • New graduates may be considered depending on the clinic.
          
          
     3. Skills:
        
        
        • Strong understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy and orthopedic conditions.
          
          
        • Ability to perform therapeutic exercises, manual therapy techniques, and use of modalities.
          
          
        • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, physical therapists, and staff.
          
          
        • Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems.