Physical Therapist Assistant

JOB SUMMARY: Performs an effective physical therapy program and treatment plan using sound judgment, and psychological sensitivity. Maintains a sufficient level of professional expertise and assumes responsibility for professional growth and development.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:  May perform any or all of the below-listed job responsibilities. The primary emphasis of the job may vary by incumbent. May also perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Performs a treatment plan as instructed within limits of APTA code of Ethics.


• Demonstrates a firm grasp of patient management.


• Promotes effective communication and demonstrates cooperation and teamwork within the physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy departments, the facility, and other contacts.


• Contributes to the efficient and safe operation of the physical therapy department.


• Must be available to work more than eight (8) hours per day or more than forty (40) hours per week.


• Other related duties that may become necessary or as directed by the supervisor, department head and/or administration.


• Must be eligible to practice physical therapy according to the New York state and APTA Physical Therapy Practice Acts.


• Relates well with various people and personalities.


• Demonstrate good judgment and problem-solving skills in a variety of patient-related and staff situations.


• Demonstrates maturity as related to emotional involvement.


• Demonstrates the ability to work effectively with supervision.


• Demonstrates the ability to be flexible and adaptable.


• Demonstrates effective and concise written language skills.


• Demonstrates good formal and informal clinical teaching skills.


• Assists with data collection and keeps Physical Therapist informed of patient progress and changes.


• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of physical therapy treatment techniques as could be typical of a new graduate.


• Demonstrates good time-management skills.


• Demonstrates coordination, manual dexterity, visual and auditory acuity.

REQUIREMENTS:  Requires associate level knowledge of human growth and development, human anatomy and physiology, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, biomechanics of motion, manifestations of disease and trauma, normal and abnormal physiological responses, injury and disability, and ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic influences on an individual. Knowledge in neurodevelopment and facilitation treatment techniques, neuromuscular re-education, cardiac monitoring, and in the theory and application of all physical therapy modalities.