Geriatric Physical Therapist

Full Time
Chula Vista, CA
$41.59 - $62.50 an hour
Posted
Job description

Position Summary:

The Physical Therapist (PT) is a Member of the Interdisciplinary Team of the San Diego PACE Program and is responsible for the design and implementation of a program of physical therapy for PACE patients to help them to remain independent and live safely in the community. The PT performs assessments of PACE patients and develops individualized plans of care, is responsible for determining the appropriate approach to be used in developing function to a maximum level and supervises the carrying out of the plan of care by support staff. Performs reassessments as indicated

Essential Functions of the Job:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Develop and implement a program of physical therapy for patients enrolled in PACE and accessing day services that may include therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular reeducation, rehabilitation services, functional activities, gait training, orthotics training, prosthesis training, and massage. Modify the program as needed based on reevaluations and the patient population.
  • Perform assessments of patients to determine abilities.
  • Develop and implement an individualized plan of care to decrease or eliminate disability, increase or maintain capability for independence, and develop function to a maximum level.
  • Ensure that the individual plan of care is being followed by qualified support staff.
  • Provide therapies to include: muscle, nerve joint and functional ability tests; treatment to relieve pain, develop or restore function; and assistance to achieve and maintain maximum performance using physical means such as exercise, massage, heat, sound, water, light or electricity.
  • Guide patients and caregivers in the use of adaptive devices and therapeutic, creative and self-care activities for improving function.
  • Perform reassessments as indicated. Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and modify goals as necessary. Traveling required as indicated.
  • Conducts home, hospital, and other relevant site visits as needed, and indicated by IDT and/or Center Manager
  • Record and sign treatments in the patient's health record. Record, sign, and date quarterly progress notes. Review and initial all evaluations and the discharge summary.
  • Ensure services provided are in a therapeutic setting conducive to restoring dignity and self-esteem to all patients.
  • Ensure that required equipment and supplies for the physical therapy program are available or ordered as needed.
  • Develop personnel policies which define the physical therapy responsibilities and the duties assigned to the physical therapist assistant.
  • Keeps abreast of all regulations and standards to ensure compliance with orders or directives issued by duly constituted government/regulatory agencies (PACE, ADHC, CMS, DHCS, etc)
  • Perform reassessments as indicated. Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and modify goals as necessary.
  • Record and sign treatments in the patient's health record. Record, sign, and date quarterly progress notes. Review and initial all evaluations and the discharge summary.
  • Ensure services provided are in a therapeutic setting conducive to restoring dignity and self-esteem to all patients.
  • Develop personnel policies which define the physical therapy responsibilities and the duties assigned to the support staff or therapy assistants by the individual treatment plan.
  • Participate in training programs for staff and caregivers.

Additional Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintain and follow established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance program, safety, environmental and infection control standards.
  • Enhance professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings and workshops.
  • Adheres to and models SYHC’s core values and behaviors of Excellence, Empowerment, Integrity and Respect.
  • Adheres to SYHC and PACE attendance and punctuality policies and practices.
  • Attend meetings as required and participate on committees as directed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Job Requirements:

Education Required:

Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Therapy if obtained prior to the year 2000; if obtained after the year 2000, then Master’s Degree in PT; if obtained after the year 2015, then Doctorate of Physical Therapy.

Education Preferred:

  • DPT and specialization in therapy of disabled and aged patients.

Certifications/Licenses Required:

  • Licensed Physical Therapist in CA
  • Passing scores on national and state examinations
  • CA valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
  • Proof of current vehicle insurance (if applicable)

Experience Required:

  • Experience in working with the geriatric population is preferred.

Experience Preferred:

  • Two years direct supervision of support staff. May be required to supervise other therapy staff, Program Aides and Therapy Assistants.
  • Experience working with aged and disabled populations.

Equipment Used:

  • Parallel bars.
  • Full-view mirror.
  • Overhead pulley and weights.
  • Set of training stairs.
  • Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches, and other ambulation aides.
  • Physical agent modalities including but not limited to ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat.

Technical Knowledge and Skills Required to Perform the Job: Knowledge of principles and methods for treatment and rehabilitation of disabilities and functional impairments. Ingenuity and imagination in adapting modalities to individual needs. Familiarity with the Older Americans Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Area Agencies on Aging. Patience and strong interpersonal skills. Excellent oral, written, and computer skills. Bilingual English/Spanish. Ability to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships and to participate in a multi-cultural, multidisciplinary team.

Effort required:

  • Physical Activities: Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, lift, and stand for long periods. Occasional lifting of heavy objects.
  • Commitment to long-term care in a community setting and promoting maximum patient independence and functional ability
  • Working Traits

Working Conditions:

  • May face hazards from moving heavy equipment and lifting patients or helping them turn, stand, or walk. May be required to attend meetings outside regular business hours.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $41.59 - $62.50 per hour

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Continuing education credits
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Healthcare setting:

  • Outpatient

Medical specialties:

  • Geriatrics

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

License/Certification:

  • Physical Therapy License (Required)

Work Location: In person

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