Physical Therapy Assistant

Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration; Jacksonville (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Physical Therapy Assistant to join their team. In this role, you will provide direct patient care to Veterans, assisting them in rehabilitation and recovery from various impairments. You'll work closely with a Physical Therapist to develop and modify treatment plans, ensuring each patient's needs are met. This position offers a structured work schedule and the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of those who have served our country. If you are passionate about patient care and rehabilitation, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen and proficient in English.
• Requires an associate degree from an accredited PTA program.

Responsibilities

• Administer patient treatments and assist with functional activities.
• Coordinate intervention plans and communicate with the treatment team.

Skills

Patient Care

Communication Skills

Treatment Plan Modification

Assistive Device Management

Education

Associate Degree in Physical Therapy

Job description

Summary

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) position is located in the Physical Therapy Section of the PM&R at the North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System. The role involves providing direct patient care within PM&R for Veterans with various orthopedic, neurological, and systemic impairments. The PTA works under the supervision of a Physical Therapist (PT) to promote prevention, remediation, and rehabilitation of both acute and chronic physical dysfunction.

Qualifications

Basic Requirements:

1. Citizenship: Be a citizen of the United States (U.S.). Non-citizens may be appointed when qualified citizens cannot be recruited, as per 38 U.S.C. § 7407(a).
2. English Language Proficiency: Be proficient in spoken and written English, in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).
3. Education: Meet at least one of the following: (1) Associate degree from an accredited physical therapy assistant program, (2) Graduate of foreign PT assistant programs passing the NPTE, or (3) Graduate of military PT assistant programs passing the NPTE.
4. Licensure: Hold a current, full, active, and unrestricted license as a PTA in a U.S. State, Territory, or Commonwealth, or District of Columbia. Non-licensed applicants may be appointed temporarily pending licensure, under specific conditions.

Additional qualifications include experience requirements for GS-6, GS-7, and GS-8 levels, demonstrating increasing knowledge, skills, and abilities, such as performing chart reviews, modifying treatment plans, and working independently.

Duties

• Administer patient treatments, including positioning, transfers, and assistive device management.
• Instruct, motivate, and assist patients in improving functional activities, pulmonary function, and gait patterns.
• Modify treatment approaches in collaboration with the supervising PT, considering patient needs and progress.
• Coordinate intervention plans with the treatment team and communicate effectively with patients, families, and staff.
• Maintain professionalism and adaptability, ensuring a positive and respectful environment.
• Work schedule is Monday-Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm. Telework is not available, and this is not a virtual position.

Reference: https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/