SUMMARY:  The Physical Therapist assesses the need for, develops and delivers physical therapy programs to facilitate rehabilitation.  The Physical Therapist identifies the need for and makes referral(s) to other disciplines to address the comprehensive needs of residents. They implement individualized therapy programs that are created to maximize potential.  They will educate and train residents and caregivers in those skills and functions to promote the residents’ highest practical functional level.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES This summarizes the major essential responsibilities and duties regularly performed and normally assigned to this position.  Listed below are a summary of the position responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned. 

1. Supervise Physical Therapy Assistants, Physical Therapists with temporary licenses, students and ancillary staff in accordance with state licensure requirements and professional standards.
2. Performs (including documentation of such) screens, evaluations, progress reports, treatment encounter notes and  and reevaluations of residents’ in regards to physical therapy needs upon referral in a timely manner.
3. Establishes long term and short term goals determined by evaluation in conjunction with resident, physician, caregiver and additional disciplines involved with patient care
4. Ensure MD orders are obtained for evaluations, treatments, recertifications and discharges.
5. Responsible for the effective and efficient delivery and documentation of rehab services as outlined in the residents’ plan of care.
6. Fully participates in patient care, staffing and other related meetings as assigned by DOR.
7. Monitors and makes changes to the residents’ plan of care as needed
8. Promotes safety for residents and employees in all areas of the facility.
9. Places residents’ needs first, to ensure that residents’ and families receive excellent clinical care in a caring and compassionate manner.
10. Orders, cleans, maintains, and reports issues with, supplies and equipment as needed.
11. Establish professional relationships with residents, family members and facility team to ensure that consistent communication is provided to them on a regular basis
12. Partner with residents, family members and facility staff through the care and discharge planning process to facilitate transition to the appropriate level of care.
13. Assist as needed with facility training(s).
14. Be available to travel to facilities within reasonable distance as needed.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION/VOCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

1.        Graduate of a school of Physical Therapy approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

1. Valid Physical Therapy license and able to practice in the state(s) of licensure.

EXPERIENCE:  A minimum of 3 years experience in long term care preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  While performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to stand, walk, kneel, use hands to fingers, talk and hear, reach with hands and arms, twist from side to side, and bend at the knees.  The team members will need lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, push a minimum of 200 pounds and push such weight a minimum of 200 feet.   Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, and distance vision.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:  Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.  The ability to write clear and concise routine reports and documentation regarding resident care.  The ability to speak effectively before groups of residents, team members and family members.

COMPUTER AND  OFFICE EQUIPMENT SKILLS:  Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, Access, etc.).   Familiar with telephone equipment, fax machines, coping machines, and other various pieces office equipment. 

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Must have knowledge of state practice acts, thorough knowledge of Medicare and third payer billing. Must possess patience and understanding of the elderly and have a sincere interest in working with the elderly population.  The employee will adhere to all universal precautions and prescribed safety and infection control procedures at all times.  Washes hands thoroughly, uses disposable gloves where indicated and properly disposes of soiled materials. Safeguards all resident information and adheres to all HIPPA regulations.

OTHER WORK REQUIREMENTS:  Must be able to use a variety of therapy equipment.  Must be flexible regarding work schedule and willing to work some weekends and holidays.