PACE Physical Therapy Assistant (Full Time Temporary)

Position Summary: 

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

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Based on recommendations from the Physical Therapist implements a program of physical therapy for patients enrolled in PACE by accessing day services that may include therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, rehabilitation services, functional activities, gait training, orthotics training, prothesis and training. Make recommendations to the Physical Therapist to modify the program as needed based on the patient population.
• 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 the maximum level.
• Ensure that the individual plan of care is being followed.
• 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, modalities such as heat, ultrasound, water, light or electricity.
• Guide patients and caregivers in the use of adaptive devices and therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for improving function.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of treatment and makes recommendations to modify goals as necessary.
• Record and sign treatments in the patient’s health record.
• Ensure services provided are in a therapeutic setting conducive to restoring dignity and self-esteem to all patients.
• Assists Physical Therapist to ensure that required equipment and supplies for the physical therapy program are available or ordered as needed.
• 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.).
• Participate in training programs for staff and caregivers.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities

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

Job Requirements

Education Required:

• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy Program (PTA) culminating in an associate degree in Physical Therapy. 

Experience Required:

• 2 years field experience with geriatric population beyond completion of degree requirements.

Certifications Required:

• License as a Physical Therapist Assistant in CA.
• BLS/CPR Certification.

Verbal and Written Skills Required to Perform the Job:

• Excellent oral, written, and computer skills. 
• Ability to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships and to participate in a multi-cultural, multidisciplinary team.

Technical Knowledge and Skills Required to Perform the Job:

• Bi-lingual (English /Spanish speaking) and bi-cultural in therapeutic approach strongly preferred.
• 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, American with Disabilities Act, and Area Agencies on aging.
• Patience and strong interpersonal skills.

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.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods.
• Occasional lifting of heavy objects.
• Commitment to long-term care in a community setting and promoting maximum patient independence and functional ability.  
• May face hazards from moving heavy equipment and lifting patients or helping them turn, stand, or walk.

Universal Requirements:

Pre-employment requirements include I-9, physical, positive background and reference check results, complete application, new hire orientation, pre-employment PPDs. Compliance with all mandated vaccinations and all boosters is a term and condition of employment.