Physical Therapist/Clinical Associate (O'Fallon, MO) - Orthopedics - Program in Physical Therapy

Washington University; O’Fallon (MO); On-site; USD 78,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington University in St. Louis seeks a Clinical Associate in Physical Therapy to provide one-on-one patient assessments and individualized treatment plans. You will document outcomes, collaborate with the care team, and contribute to ongoing education and professional development.

The role emphasizes safety, ethics, and a supportive environment with opportunities for growth, teaching within the Doctor of Physical Therapy curriculum, and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Physical Therapy is required.
• Licenses for Physical Therapist in Illinois and Missouri.
• Driver's license not required.

Responsibilities

• Manages a full patient caseload and schedules efficiently.
• Evaluates patients and determines a movement diagnosis.
• Develops and implements tailored treatment plans with prognosis.
• Documents medical records accurately and timely.
• Collaborates with billing and referral teams to ensure proper approvals.

Skills

Caseload management

Teamwork

Interpersonal communication

Oral communication

Written communication

Critical thinking

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree - Physical Therapy

D.P.T. - Doctor of Physical Therapy

Job description

Location

O'fallon, MO 63368

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Clinical Associate in Physical Therapy plays a crucial and dynamic role in the healthcare continuum providing comprehensive, one-on-one assessments for patients resulting in the delivery of individualized therapy plans that cater to each patient's unique needs. The role is inherently collaborative, allowing for work in a supportive team environment that encourages open communication in order to provide the highest quality patient care. A strong emphasis is placed on leveraging expertise in movement to identify specific impairments and functional limitations that could be treated to optimize patient participation in desired activities. In addition to intellectually stimulating clinical duties, this role affords exceptional opportunities for professional growth and advancement. We value continuous learning and innovation, providing you with access to ongoing education and professional development resources. Our practice is dedicated to fostering a positive clinical culture that prioritizes the creation of a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for both patients and staff. You will be part of a forward-thinking team committed to excellence in patient care and operational efficiency. As a Clinical Associate in Physical Therapy, you will have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in patients' lives while advancing your career in a nurturing and inclusive setting.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manages a full patient caseload efficiently, ensuring effective schedule management, and informs the supervisor of any concerns.
• Evaluates patients and determines a movement diagnosis.
• Develops and implements tailored treatment plans considering diagnoses, findings, co-morbidities, patient goals, and prognosis, including specialized plans for return to sport or work.
• Completes accurate and timely medical record documentation using approved formats.
• Collaborates with pre-arrival and billing team to ensure that all treatments are provided under valid referrals and within insurance approvals, adhering to state, federal, and intermediary guidelines and institutional policies.
• Provides thorough assessments, education, and individualized plans of care to patients and families/caregivers, explaining diagnoses, suggested activities, and expected outcomes.
• Maintains routine contact with patients and referring providers, as needed, to discuss patient progress and address any concerns.
• Provides home exercise programs and necessary community referrals.
• Facilitates and secures referrals for additional needed services and devices.
• Actively participates in departmental meetings, relevant conferences, and continuing education to stay current with industry standards and best practices.
• Complies with infection control policies by maintaining a safe and clean working environment.
• Demonstrates flexibility and teamwork, actively participating in departmental functions to maintain a positive and efficient work environment.
• Communicates regularly with the supervisor about service needs, such as supplies, equipment, and training.
• Adheres to the discipline-specific State Practice Act and other relevant regulations.
• Performs duties ethically following the professional code of conduct for the discipline.
• Role may include teaching duties within the Doctor of Physical Therapy Curriculum.

Working Conditions

Job Location/Working Conditions: Direct patient care setting. Normal office environment. Exposure to blood-borne pathogens. Potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be capable of wearing protective equipment.

Physical Effort: Occasional lifting 25-50 lbs. Frequent lifting 25 lbs. or more. Ability to lift 10 lbs. from floor to waist and carry for short distances. Push and pull occasionally with moderate force. Ability to coordinate hand movements for tasks like writing, typing, and patient manipulation.

Equipment: Therapy equipment. Office equipment.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education: Master's degree - Physical Therapy

Certifications/Professional Licenses: Basic Life Support - American Heart Association, Basic Life Support - American Red Cross, Physical Therapist - Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Physical Therapist - Missouri Division of Professional Registration

Work Experience: No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills: Not Applicable

Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

Education: D.P.T. - Doctor of Physical Therapy

Certifications/Professional Licenses: No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience: No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills: Adaptability, Caseload Management, Clinical Setting, Computer Literacy, Confidentiality, Critical Thinking, Evidence-Based Practices (EBP), Fast-Paced Environments, Interpersonal Communication, Oral Communications, Organizing, Patient Counseling, Prioritization, Problem Solving, Professional Etiquette, Scientific Reasoning, Scientific Thinking, Teamwork, Written Communication

Salary and Grade

Grade C14 Salary Range $77,700.00 - $120,400.00 / Annually

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [e-mail] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits

• Personal Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
• Family We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child.
• Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs.
• Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.
• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Company Culture

Washington University in St. Louis' collective success is significantly attributed to the passion and outstanding efforts of our community. Our staff, faculty and trainees are committed to excellence and dedicated to carrying out our missions of research, teaching and patient care. WashU prides itself on being a place where people matter, and serious work is done. Our people work together in an inclusive community that celebrates diverse perspectives, collaboration and innovation. We are a community of individuals inspired to work together to develop big ideas and tackle challenging problems. We value the well-being of our people. WashU strives to create a positive employee experience where staff, faculty and trainees thrive, both personally and professionally. Our employees find meaning, connection and vitality in their work and life with a healthy work-life balance and support to learn, grow and make an impact at WashU, the community and the world.

Regulatory Postings

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