Physical Therapy Assistant

Quick Facts

• Role: Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

• Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm

• Work setting: weekly schedule split between a VA medical center and VA community-based outpatient clinics

Description

Under the general direction of a licensed physical therapist, the PTA completes an initial review of patient information, independently implements the PT plan of care within scope, and documents patient progress. The role also includes patient and family education, coordination with the interdisciplinary team, and participation in continuing education and performance improvement activities.

Responsibilities

• Review patient medical history/data and develop/present a patient profile for PT assessment and goal setting

• Implement and coordinate the plan of care; modify treatment approaches within the established plan as patient needs change

• Perform tests and measures to document progress

• Provide therapeutic interventions (e.g., therapeutic exercises, physical agents/modalities) and instruct patients on assistive devices/adaptive appliances

• Maintain records, progress notes, and reports per Rehabilitation Services guidelines

• Communicate progress and status changes to the primary PT; support reassessment and discharge planning processes

• Plan and implement patient education programs for patients and families/significant others

• Coordinate with multidisciplinary team members through meetings, rounds, written and informal communication

• Assist clinical education of PTA students and assess student performance capabilities

• Support equipment/supply readiness and safety (non-technical maintenance, hazard recognition/corrective action)

• Participate in performance improvement; maintain knowledge of contemporary and evidence-based physical therapy

• Assist with coverage for absent staff to maintain continuity and quality of care

• Provide in-service training related to patient care as needed

• Follow safety and emergency procedures, including infection control/universal fluid precautions and CPR assistance when required

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship

• Proficiency in written and spoken English

• Ability to pass background/security investigation and complete required onboarding and pre-employment steps

• Current, full, active, unrestricted PTA license in a U.S. state/territory/commonwealth or District of Columbia

• Education: PTA Associate degree from an accredited program OR eligible foreign/military PTA education with successful NPTE for PTAs

• Experience: one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-7, including chart review, objective measures to assess progress, and consulting with the PT for complex cases

• Ability to meet physical requirements (walking/ambulating patients, transfers, lifting up to 50 pounds)

• Seasonal influenza vaccination program participation required

Benefits

A federal employment package includes comprehensive benefits for the employee and their family; eligibility and specific offerings depend on the position type.