Physical Therapy Assistant

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute; Chesterton (IN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute, a regionally established orthopedic group, seeks a Physical Therapy Assistant to implement treatment plans established by supervising PT and improve mobility and function for patients across our northwest Indiana clinics. Travel between Chesterton and other Lakeshore facilities is required.

The role emphasizes hands-on patient care, documentation in EMRs, and collaboration with the health care team to ensure safe, effective discharge and follow-ups.

Qualifications

• Current, valid state Physical Therapy Assistant license.
• DPT preferred.
• Basic life support (BLS) certification.
• Minimum of one year of physical therapy experience in outpatient orthopedics preferred; strong new graduates will also be considered.

Responsibilities

• Carry out interventions prescribed by the supervising PT, including therapeutic exercises, balance/gait training, and functional activities.
• Administer physical agents such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat/cold packs, and traction as directed.
• Observe and record patients' responses and progress before, during, and after therapy sessions.
• Report patient status and any adverse reactions immediately to the supervising PT. Collaborate with the health care team on patient discharge and follow-ups.
• Teach patients and family members how to perform home exercise programs and safely use supportive devices (e.g., crutches, walkers).
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant electronic medical records (EMRs) and clinical notes in compliance with facility and state regulations.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized treatment area, including sterilizing equipment and preparing therapy rooms.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

CPT & ICD-9 coding knowledge

PT principles & practices

EMR documentation proficiency

Education

State PTA license

DPT preferred

Job description

As the region’s subspecialty orthopedic group, Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute has served the orthopedic needs of northwest Indiana since 1968. With state‑of‑the‑art facilities conveniently located in Chesterton, Crown Point, Michigan City, Portage, and Schererville, we are dedicated to delivering the exceptional, compassionate care to our patients to keep them moving and enjoying life.

Job Summary

Implements treatment plans established by a supervising Physical Therapist designed to improve mobility, relieve pain, and restore function, prevent disabilities, and promote overall fitness and health of patients.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods, work longer than eight (8) hour shifts, and to work both day/evening shifts. Work may hand dexterity as well as the need to reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk, and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. The employee is required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the described essential functions of the job.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a clinical environment. Involves frequent contact with patients, physicians, and other healthcare personnel. Work may be stressful at times. Interaction with others is constant and interruptive. Work may involve interaction with injured or sick patients. Travel between all Lakeshore Bone & Joint facilities is required for this position.

Essential Job Functions

• Carry out interventions prescribed by the supervising PT, including therapeutic exercises, balance/gait training, and functional activities.
• Administer physical agents such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat/cold packs, and traction as directed.
• Observe and record patients' responses and progress before, during, and after therapy sessions.
• Report patient status and any adverse reactions immediately to the supervising PT. Collaborate with the health care team on patient discharge and follow‑ups.
• Teach patients and family members how to perform home exercise programs and safely use supportive devices (e.g., crutches, walkers).
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant electronic medical records (EMRs) and clinical notes in compliance with facility and state regulations.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized treatment area, including sterilizing equipment and preparing therapy rooms.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Current, valid state Physical Therapy Assistant license
• DPT preferred
• Basic life support (BLS) certification
• Minimum of one year of physical therapy experience in outpatient orthopedics preferred; strong new graduates will also be considered.

Required Skills

• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of CPT & ICD-9 coding procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of physical therapy principles and practices.
• Working knowledge of computer programs and EMR documentation.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodation Statement

Lakeshore Bone & Joint is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.