Physical Therapist Assistant San Diego

The Physical Therapist Assistant San Diego (PTA) is responsible for implementation of a program of
physical therapy for PACE patients to help them to remain independent and live safely in the community.

Essential Functions of the Job:

1. Based on recommendations from the Physical Therapist implements a program of physical therapy for patients enrolled in PACE and accessing day services that may include therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, rehabilitation services, functional activities, gait training, orthotics training, prosthesis and training. Make recommendations to the Physical Therapist to modify the program as needed based on the patient population.
2. Perform assessments of patients to determine abilities.
3. Based on recommendations from the Physical Therapist implements an individualized plan of care to decrease or eliminate disability, increase or maintain capability for independence, and develop function to a maximum level.
4. Ensure that the individual plan of care is being followed.
5. Provide therapies to include: muscle, nerve joint and functional ability tests; treatment to relieve pain, develop or restore function; and assistance to achieve and maintain maximum performance using physical means such as exercise, heat, sound, water, light or electricity.
6. Guide patients and caregivers in the use of adaptive devices and therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for improving function.
7. Evaluates the effectiveness of treatment and makes recommendations to modify goals as necessary.
8. Record and sign treatments in the patient’s health record
9. Ensure services provided are in a therapeutic setting conducive to restoring dignity and self-esteem to all patients.
10. Assists Physical Therapist to ensure that required equipment and supplies for the physical therapy program are available or ordered as needed.
11. Keeps abreast of all regulations and standards to ensure compliance with orders or directives issued by duly constituted government/regulatory agencies (PACE, CMS, DHCS, etc)
12. Participate in training programs for staff and caregivers.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities

1. Maintain and follow established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control standards.
2. Enhance professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops.
3. Adheres to and models core values and behaviors of Excellence, Empowerment, Integrity and Respect.
4. Adheres to attendance and punctuality policies and practices.
5. Attend meetings as required and participate on committees as directed.
6. Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Job Requirements

Education Required:
Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant Program PTA culminating in an Associates’ Degree in Physical Therapy

Education Preferred:
• Associates’ Degree in Physical Therapy with a focus on Geriatric Population

Certifications/Licenses Required:
• Licensed as Physical Therapist Assistant in CA
•Passing scores on national and state examinations.
•CA valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
•Proof of current vehicle insurance (if applicable)

Experience Required:
• At least two years field experience beyond completion of degree requirements

Experience Preferred:
• Experience working with aged and disabled populations.

Equipment Used:
• Parallel bars.
• Full-view mirror.
•Overhead pulley and weights.
•Set of training stairs.
• Treatment table
•Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and other ambulation aides.
•Physical Modalities agents such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation machines
•Bikes, treadmills and other exercise equipment.

Technical Knowledge and Skills Required to Perform the Job: Knowledge of principles and methods for treatment and rehabilitation of disabilities and functional impairments. Ingenuity
and imagination in adapting modalities to individual needs. Familiarity with the Older Americans Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Area Agencies on Aging. Patience and strong interpersonal skills. Excellent oral, written, and computerskills. Bilingual English/Spanish. Ability to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships and to participate in a multi-cultural, multidisciplinary team.

Effort Required:

•Physical Activities: Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods. Occasional lifting of heavy objects.
•Working Traits: Commitment to long-term care in a community setting and promoting maximum patient independence and functional ability
•Willing to travel as required