Description
Join St. Francis-Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women's care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.
Job Summary
The Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) provides physical therapy services under the direction and supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist. The PTA implements treatment plans, monitors patient progress, and assists patients in restoring function, improving mobility, and relieving pain. Works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team to deliver safe, evidence-based, and compassionate care in accordance with professional standards and regulatory requirements.
Essential Functions
- Implements patient-specific treatment programs as developed by the supervising Physical Therapist.
- Observes, records, and reports patient responses to interventions and communicates findings to the Physical Therapist.
- Provides therapeutic interventions including therapeutic exercises, gait training, functional mobility, and modalities.
- Instructs patients and families in home exercise programs and safe techniques for mobility and daily activities.
- Assists in the fitting and use of assistive devices and adaptive equipment.
- Maintains accurate and timely documentation of treatment provided and patient progress.
- Participates in team conferences and collaborates with healthcare staff to optimize patient outcomes.
- Ensures proper maintenance and cleanliness of treatment areas and equipment.
- Supervises rehabilitation aides and support staff as appropriate.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations
- Solid knowledge of physical therapy techniques and therapeutic equipment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Proficient in documenting care in an electronic health record (EHR).
- Ability to follow instructions, adapt to changing situations, and work as part of a team.
- Demonstrates professionalism, empathy, and respect in patient interactions.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.
- Must be able to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to assist patients with transfers and therapeutic activities.
- Visual and auditory acuity to monitor patient status and safety.
- Clinical, inpatient, and outpatient rehabilitation settings.
- Possible exposure to body fluids, communicable diseases, and hazardous materials.
- Adheres to infection control, safety, and ethical practice standards.
Qualifications
Education
- Associate degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)-accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Licenses/Certifications
- Current state license or certification as a Physical Therapist Assistant.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required upon hire.
Experience
- One year of experience in a clinical, inpatient, or outpatient setting preferred.
- Must possess strong clinical judgment, communication skills, and a commitment to high-quality patient care.