Physical Therapist - Apache Junction

PACS•Apache Junction, AZ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Physical Therapist evaluates patients within twenty-four (24) hours, or 1 business day of physician referral. If unable to complete evaluation in 24 hours, documentation in the medical record clearly defines the cause for delay. The therapist develops an effective treatment plan and obtains approval for services from the referring physician. They treat patients per the physician treatment plan, assist the nursing department with training of Restorative Aides, and supervise Physical Therapy Assistants in direct patient care and patient-related activities, following the state practice act. Communication with supervisors and other health team members regarding patient progress, problems, and plans is essential. The role involves participation in Patient Care Conferences, Utilization Review meetings, and Rehabilitation Conferences as needed, as well as in-service training programs for other staff in the facility. Recording evaluations, daily treatment notes, weekly progress notes, and recertification documentation is required per the PT Board State Practice Act and governmental and third-party payer requirements. Treatment changes are recorded per policy and procedures. The therapist instructs patient’s families or nursing staff in maintenance programs and caregiver training in preparation for discharge from therapy services and participates in discharge planning. Recommending and facilitating the ordering of necessary durable medical equipment for patients to facilitate independence in mobility (e.g., braces, walkers, canes, elevated toilet seats, and grab bars) is also a key responsibility. Reporting any problems with department equipment ensures it is maintained in good working order. The ability to relate positively, effectively, and appropriately with patients/residents, families, staff, and professional colleagues is crucial.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy, prefer graduates of Masters or Doctorate Program in Physical Therapy.
Proficient in computer skills such as inputting data into programs such as Casamba and Point Click Care.
Ability to read technical procedures.
Ability to read and comprehend policy and procedure manuals.
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, coworkers and families.
Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situations.
Ability to solve practical problems.
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Licensed as a Physical Therapist in the state.
Employee must meet continue education requirements per state practices.
Must maintain a license in good standing at all time with the state board.

Responsibilities

Evaluate patients within twenty-four (24) hours, or 1 business day of physician referral.
Develop effective treatment plan and obtain approval for services from referring physician.
Treat patients per the physician treatment plan.
Assist nursing department with training of Restorative Aides.
Supervise Physical Therapy Assistants in direct patient care and patient-related activities, following state practice act.
Communicate with supervisor and other health team members regarding patient progress, problem and plans.
Participate in Patient Care Conferences, Utilization Review meetings and Rehabilitation Conferences as needed.
Participate in in services training program for other staff in the facility.
Record evaluations, daily treatment notes, weekly progress notes, recertification documentation, per PT Board State Practice Act and governmental and third-party payer requirements.
Record treatment changes per policy and procedures.
Instruct patient’s families or nursing staff in maintenance program and caregiver training in preparation for discharge from therapy services.
Participate in discharge planning.
Recommend and facilitate the ordering of necessary durable medical equipment for patients to facilitate independence in mobility; i.e., braces, walkers, canes, elevated toilet seats and grab bars.
Report any problems with department equipment so that it is maintained in good working order.
Relate positively, effectively, and appropriately with patients/residents, families, staff and professional colleagues.