Physical Therapist

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a professional position involving responsibility for evaluating, planning and providing physical therapy treatment to patients in accordance with written prescription or referral from a physician who provides medical direction.  The Physical Therapist is responsible to the Director of Rehabilitation Services.  Supervision is exercised over the work of aides and assistants assigned to the service.  Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

• Evaluates the degree of function and disability of patients unless contra-indicated by his or her professional judgment or a doctor’s admission notes;
• Performs physical therapy procedures upon the written order or referral of a licensed physician;
• Supervises Home Health Aides in the performance of physical therapy related tasks;
• Participates with other personnel in the formulation of patient’s total care plans;
• Assists in the development of physical therapy policies and procedures;
• Confers periodically with a superior and physicians regarding all facets of patient care and related activities;
• Assists in the development of, instructs and participates in the facility in-service education program;
• Records on patients’ charts all physical therapy evaluations, re-evaluations, progress notes, consultation and discharge summaries;
• May maintains program records including but not limited to the service budget and statistical reports of the frequency and types of treatment and number of patients treated.
• Performs evaluation and treatment for home-bound patients including associated paperwork and related duties;

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:       

• Good knowledge of the principles, techniques and practices of physical therapy;
• Good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of apparatus and equipment used in physical therapy;
• Good knowledge of pathological conditions and socio-economic factors affecting a patient’s disabilities;
• Working knowledge of community resources applicable to physical therapy;
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others;
• Ability to get along well with others;
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Either: (a) at time of temporary appointment must possess* a limited permit to practice Physical Therapy, issued by the New York State Education Department, and must have applied for or taken the licensing examination for Physical Therapy, or (b) at time of permanent appointment must possess license and current registration, issued by the New York State Education Department, as a Physical Therapist.

*Special Note:  If the candidate is a graduate of an approved physical therapy program and indicates that they have submitted applications and fees for both the licensing examination and limited permit, then they may practice under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.  This exemption is only valid for up to 90 days after the date of graduation.