Full-Time Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) Home Health

Job Description

Job Description

Job Overview :

A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) in a home health setting works under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist to assist with providing rehabilitation services to patients in their homes. The PTA helps implement patient care plans, monitor progress, and assist patients with exercises and activities aimed at improving mobility, strength, and overall functional independence. The PTA is an essential part of the home health team and plays a vital role in promoting patient recovery.

Key Responsibilities :

• Patient Care and Treatment :

Implement treatment plans as developed by the supervising Physical Therapist (PT), including therapeutic exercises, mobility training, and functional activities.

• Provide hands-on assistance to patients with prescribed exercises, ensuring proper technique and safety.
• Assist patients with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as walking, transferring, and balancing.
• Monitor patient progress and document changes in condition, ensuring that interventions remain appropriate.
• Assessment and Progress Monitoring :

Observe and report patient responses to treatment and any changes in the patients condition.

• Assist in evaluating patient progress and making recommendations to the Physical Therapist for adjustments to treatment plans.
• Ensure that patients are following their home exercise programs (HEP) correctly and offer additional instruction when necessary.
• Education and Support :

Educate patients and their caregivers on exercise techniques, posture correction, and safety precautions.

• Encourage patients to take an active role in their rehabilitation and home exercise programs.
• Provide guidance on fall prevention and proper body mechanics during daily activities.
• Collaboration and Communication :

Maintain communication with the supervising Physical Therapist and other healthcare team members to ensure that the patients care plan is being followed.

• Share observations and report any significant changes in the patient's condition or response to treatment.
• Coordinate with family members or caregivers to provide ongoing support and ensure that home care instructions are understood and followed.
• Documentation :

Complete accurate and timely documentation of patient visits, treatment activities, and progress notes in compliance with company policies and regulatory standards.

• Ensure documentation aligns with Medicare, Medicaid, and insurance provider guidelines.
• Safety and Equipment Management :

Ensure patient safety during therapy sessions by monitoring the patients physical condition and managing any potential risks or hazards.

• Assist with the setup and safe use of equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices.
• Provide recommendations for home modifications to improve safety and mobility, if needed.

Required Qualifications :

• Education :

Associates degree in Physical Therapist Assistant program from an accredited institution.

• Licensure / Certification :

Active Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) license in the state of practice.

• CPR / BLS certification.
• Experience :

Minimum of 1-2 years of clinical experience as a PTA. Prior experience in home health or outpatient settings is preferred.

• Skills / Competencies :

Strong clinical skills in assisting with physical therapy treatments and exercises.

• Ability to work independently under the supervision of a Physical Therapist.
• Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with patients, families, and team members.
• Time management and organizational skills to manage patient schedules and documentation.

Preferred Qualifications :

• Previous experience in home health or similar setting.
• Familiarity with home health care regulations, including Medicare and Medicaid.
• Experience with geriatric, orthopedic, or neurological rehabilitation.

Physical Requirements :

• Ability to travel within the designated service area to visit patient homes.
• Physical ability to assist patients with mobility and physical therapy exercises.
• Occasional lifting, bending, and carrying of equipment or patients, as necessary.

Working Conditions :

• Full-time, with flexible hours based on patient needs.
• Travel required within a defined service area to visit patients in their homes.
• The role requires a high level of independence and self-motivation, as well as the ability to manage a caseload effectively.

Compensation and Benefits :

• Health insurance
• Paid time off (PTO), sick leave and holidays
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities
• 401(k)

Job Summary :

The Full-Time PTA in Home Health will be part of an interdisciplinary team, providing direct patient care and helping to implement physical therapy treatment plans at home. This position requires a compassionate, reliable, and skilled PTA who can provide individualized care, support patient progress, and work independently in the field.