Physical Therapy Assistant

At White Plains Hospital, you have an opportunity to work side-by-side with some of the most talented people in the world.

We have been widely recognized for our exceptional culture, world-class physicians, Magnet-designated nurses and passionate employees who make a real difference in our community. With tremendous growth opportunities, great benefits, and flexible work schedules, it is no wonder why we are consistently recognized as a Great Place To Work!

Position Summary

The Physical Therapy Assistant provides physical therapy treatments under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, in accordance with the Federal, state, and hospital regulations and standards.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities Includes the Following:

1. Understands and adheres to the WPH Performance Standards, Policies and Behaviors.
2. Performs physical therapy treatments according to the treatment plan developed by the Physical Therapist, using the appropriate modalities and techniques as laid out in the plan. Participates in discharge planning.
3. Monitors the patient’s response to the treatments provided and modifies the treatment within the guidelines of the existing plan of care.
4. Ensures that re-evaluations are performed by a Physical Therapist for the patients under her/his care consistent with hospital policy/state regulations.
5. Communicates regularly with the Physical Therapist regarding patient status.
6. Works as part of the team to collaborate on providing the best possible patient care.
7. Knows and utilizes varied treatment techniques and skills for various problems / disabilities.
8. Keeps up-to-date records of each patient’s treatment, response to treatment, progress and change of status.
9. Establishes an effective therapeutic rapport with patients and their families.
10. Provides patients and their families with appropriate home programs during their stay and as part of their discharge plan.
11. Maintains department reports defects or problems immediately to supervisor staff.
12. Consults effectively with other health related departments (i.e., nursing, occupational therapy, speech therapy, etc.) to coordinate therapeutic programs and maintains communication with physicians regarding the patient’s progress and response to treatment.
13. Demonstrates and teaches physical therapy techniques to physical therapy students.
14. Participates in periodic assessment of the quality of care provided; makes the suggestion for improvement of quality as needed.
15. Attends department meetings, allied health conferences.  Attends special courses, seminars, in-services.  Reports on relevant course material to staff.  Shares areas of special interest or expertise with staff.
16. Instructs families about the needs, management, capabilities, and precautions related to the patient’s care prior to discharge.
17. Provides information regarding billing for services and equipment.
18. Determines needs for purchase of equipment for patients and department.
19. Maintains and carriers out procedures for departmental records, charge slips, daily statistics, etc.
20. Attends hospital mandatory in-service programs.
21. Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Graduate of accredited college program for Physical Therapy Assistants.
• Certificate from New York State to practice as a Physical Therapy Assistant.  NYS license for PTA desirable, but not required.
• Successful completion of orientation program according to department guidelines.
• Ability to interact with others in a constructive manner. Ability to promote the availability of quality in-services to staff.  Ability to interact with and treat adults and seniors.  Open to treating infants, children and adolescents as requested within professional ability level.
• BLS certification (through American Heart Association) is required within 6 months of hire.

Core Competencies

• Clinical proficiency                                           
• Ability to multi-task
• Teamwork                                                        
• Adaptability
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Planning and organizing
• Pays close attention to detail
• Ability to problem solve and use good judgment in decision-making
• Ability to work effectively under pressure           

Physical/Mental Demands/Requirements & Work Environment

• May be exposed to chemicals necessary to perform required tasks. Any hazardous chemicals the employee may be exposed to are listed in the hospital’s SDS (Safety Data Sheet) data base and may be accessed through the hospital’s Intranet site (Employee Tools/SDS Access). A copy of the SDS data base can also be found at the hospital switchboard, saved on a disc.

Primary Population Served

All Populations served.

The responsibilities and tasks outlined in this job description are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of White Plains Hospital.