Physical Therapist Job Description Sample & Template
Table of Contents
- Future Job Prospects for Physical Therapists
- Physical Therapist Salary and Benefits
- Education and Training Requirements
- Physical Therapist Job Description Sample – Free Download
1. Future Job prospects for Physical Therapist
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these roles will grow at a rate that is faster than most jobs, at 34% nationally, by 2024.
2. Physical Therapist Salary and Benefits
- According to the BLS, the average wage for a Physical Therapist is $85,400 or $41.06 per hour.
- These are generally full time roles with benefits.
3. Education and Training Requirements
- Physical therapists are required to have a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), a three-year degree issued by an accredited institution.
- Most of these programs also require a bachelor’s degree, with an emphasis on biology, anatomy, chemistry, physics, and physiology.
- Some programs run six years and combine both the BA and the DPT degrees.
- Some Physical Therapists also complete a one-year residency program that places them in a clinical setting.
State licensure is required.
4. Physical Therapist Job Description Sample
Download This Job Description Template
We are seeking a talented Physical Therapist to join our outpatient treatment facility. You will help us provide compassionate treatment in a state-of-the-art clinical setting. The successful candidate will have at least three years’ experience and a strong track record of exceptional client skills.
You will evaluate test results and administer therapy as prescribed by a physician, which could include exercise, massage, heat and cold packs, or electro stimulation therapy. You will have extraordinary verbal and written communication skills.
You will be responsible for conducting initial intake exams, creating a customized treatment plan, and then implementing a care process designed to restore functions and mobility to our patients. You will be one part coach and one part counselor, as you seek to motivate patients to achieve their health goals. For patients who cannot achieve full functioning, you will instruct them on the limits to their capabilities and teach effective ways to cope with the lifestyle changes that may be required.
The successful candidate will feel comfortable working with a variety of people in a fast-paced mobile work environment. A current license and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy are required.
You will follow all rules of conduct as prescribed by the American Physical Therapy Association Code of Ethics. You will comply with HIPAA and all other state and federal legal requirements. The role will require the ability to use scheduling software and record clinical notes on an EMR.
Responsibilities
- Greeting and escorting patients to an exam room or workout facility.
- Conducting intake exams and evaluating patients’ progress.
- Follow care instructions as dictated by a physician.
- Documenting the therapeutic activities of patients.
- Physically helps patients conduct therapeutic exercises as they work to improve ambulatory function in a recovering patient.
- Teaches patients the proper operation of various supportive and therapeutic devices such as crutches or walkers.
- Administers treatments that could include electronic muscle stimulation, traction, massage, cold or hot packs, and more.
- Educates patients on strengthening exercises and corrects their movements to ensure they are following correct procedures.
- Submits patient treatment activities for billing purposes.
- Communicates aftercare instructions to the patient.
- Cleaning exam rooms and equipment as needed.
- Maintains patient confidentiality.
Required Skills
Educational
- Bachelor’s Degree with extensive coursework in anatomy, biology, chemistry, physics, and physiology.
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree required.
- State licensure is required.
Technical
- Able to create and implement treatment plans that restore function and mobility to patients after illness or injury.
- Familiar with biomechanics, anatomy, neuroscience, pharmacology, and physiology.
- Excellent communicator able to take complicated medical concepts and translate that appropriately to a patient.
- Clinical skills including the ability observe patient limits and pain tolerance.
- Knowledge of electronic medical records (EMRs). Must be able to document via a keypad on a laptop or desktop.
- Expert at a variety of strengthening exercises that build strength and mobility.
- Physically fit, able to be agile and mobile with patients as they exercise.
- Physical dexterity and able to assist patients, support their weight, and touch or massage muscles.
Communication/Organizational
- Compassionate but firm; able to cajole patients to exceed their own physical limitations.
- Terrific interpersonal skills and a strong patient advocate.
- Passionate about the pursuit of health.
- Detail oriented and methodical.
- Resourceful and a good problem solver.
Benefits
- Full-time with benefits.
- Part-time.
How to Apply
- Apply by forwarding your resume along with a cover letter.