Kinesiotherapist (Clinical Specialist)

Veterans Health Administration•Murfreesboro, TN

25d•Onsite

About The Position

The Kinesiotherapist Clinical Specialist evaluates, plans, and implements treatment programs for patients with various disabilities and medical conditions within the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. The role involves developing and managing individualized care plans for a wide variety of diagnoses and adapting treatment to patients’ needs and progress. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Telework is ad hoc; the position is not virtual. Relocation and recruitment incentives, as well as permanent change-of-station authorization, are not offered.

Requirements

U.S. citizenship, subject to the stated exception for non-citizens when qualified citizens cannot be recruited under VA policy.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Registration in kinesiotherapy in good standing with the COPSKT.
Meet one of the specified education pathways: a bachelor's degree or higher from a CAAHEP-accredited program emphasizing kinesiotherapy; a bachelor's degree or higher emphasizing kinesiotherapy or a related exercise science field plus COPSKT registration; a master's degree or higher in exercise science, kinesiology, human performance, or a related COPSKT-approved field plus a Center of Excellence Kinesiotherapy clinical training certificate; or qualifying foreign education and current unrestricted U.S. registration to practice kinesiotherapy.
For the GS-12 grade, one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11, including specialized clinical knowledge and competence, experience refining treatment programs using current research and best practices, and experience with complex disorders in a specialty area or specific patient population.
For GS-12 appointment, demonstrate knowledge of specialized kinesiotherapy interventions and modalities; ability to consult with or mentor healthcare providers; skill in performing and interpreting specialized evaluations and tests; and skill in developing intervention protocols based on current theory, research, and evidence-based practice.
Submit required transcripts and, as applicable, COPSKT registration, clinical training certificate, or foreign education equivalency documentation.
Pass a pre-employment physical examination and background/security investigation; complete the online onboarding process and required application documentation.
Participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Serve a one- or two-year trial period, subject to written certification for continued employment.
Meet the physical requirements, including regular demanding exertion involving standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, gripping, and walking; moderate to heavy lifting; and adequate physical health, use of arms and legs, and visual and auditory acuity.

Responsibilities

Review and interpret medical consults for accuracy and appropriateness, and contact physicians or their designees for clarification when needed.
Develop, implement, and modify individualized kinesiotherapy plans of care using standard and nonstandard methods, with measurable short- and long-term goals based on patient goals.
Re-evaluate and adjust treatment plans in response to patient progress or decline, physical deficits, mental disabilities, psychosocial events, and cultural factors.
Determine whether orthotic or assistive-device training is needed and educate patients or significant others on proper application, installation, and use.
Solve complex kinesiotherapy problems and adapt treatment plans, activities, and procedures to meet patients’ and caregivers’ needs.
Document initial, interim, and discharge progress notes in writing and in a timely manner.
Collaborate with Prosthetics Services on specialized equipment consults and follow through appropriately.
Communicate with and treat patients, visitors, volunteers, and Medical Center staff courteously, tactfully, and respectfully, and provide consistent information in accordance with established policies and procedures.
Provide care and services appropriate to patients’ ages and cognitive, emotional, and chronological maturation.