Physical therapists provide evaluation and therapeutic intervention services to inpatients and outpatients in collaboration with Physician and Physical Therapy supervisory staff.
They demonstrate knowledge and application of theory and practice with patients who have orthopedic and neurological diagnoses.
Physical therapists must communicate with patients and their families to create and develop a treatment plan, and supervise the plan when carried out by another therapist, assistant or aide.
They must coordinate patient care as a member of a rehabilitation team and utilize equipment for intervention specific to the area(s) of assignment.
Physical therapists must anticipate patient needs and be proactive in collaborating with the other members of the health care team in planning for discharge after an effective treatment.
Physical therapists work closely with patients, as well as with Physicians, LPTAs, and other rehabilitation therapy staff to develop their treatment plans.
An Associate’s degree from an accredited Occupational Therapy Assistant program as well as certification is required.
A Master’s degree in Physical Therapy as well as completion of a national exam is required.
Pacific University
$76,220
Reference: United States Department of Labor