Licensed Physical Therapist

LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST

JOB OBJECTIVE:

Provide quality physical therapy evaluation, treatment and client/family education and training to  maximize functional independence and mobility. Provide guidance and support in the selection and use of adaptive equipment, durable medical equipment, and orthotic and prosthetic devices. Maintain quality assurance; participate as a member of the interdisciplinary team; and assist in developing  staff in-service trainings. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide Direct Services

• Evaluate clients referred for physical therapy services using established evaluation  procedures and standardized assessments.
• Develop treatment goals, plans and objectives based upon the initial evaluation and program  requirements, and update plans per Agency policy.
• Develop and provide coaching for family members and/or client to incorporate new skills  and/or techniques into normal routines and activities at home.
• Instruct family members and/or client in the proper and safe usage of equipment and assistive technology.
•  Assist in the coordination of services and make appropriate referrals as needed.
•  Maintain supplies and materials in good condition.

Comply with State, Federal and Other Relevant Regulations

•  Record client treatments, responses, and progress on designated forms. Complete all progress and discharge reports and paperwork in a timely manner. Develop and maintain all client progress reports and documentation, in compliance with  agency or program rules and regulations.
•  Review client charts for quality assurance on a biannual basis.
• Attend client planning meetings as required.
• Comply with privacy laws and requirements under HIPAA regulations and understand the  consequences of non-compliance. Maintain disclosures to the minimum necessary. Access  only the protected health information necessary to complete job duties.
• Follow all safety procedures as required by organization policy and procedure and understand the consequences of non-compliance.

Supervise and/or Provide Direction to staff

•  Provide supervision to licensed physical therapy assistants.
• Serve as a clinical instructor for students.

Participate in and Provide Training for Staff and Participants

•  Attend continuing education to meet and maintain licensure and certification standards.
• Assist in the development and presentation of staff in-service trainings regarding safety issues, proper lifting, transfer techniques, and other related topics as directed.
• Attend and participate in clinical meetings, general staff meetings or in-services.

Develop and Maintain Positive Relationships with Customers and Referral Sources

• Provide exceptional customer service, both internally and externally.
• Maintain an effective and professional working relationship with consumers and their  families/care providers, co-workers and referral sources.
• Work and communicate as a member of a treatment team.

EQUIPMENT USED/MACHINERY REQUIRED TO OPERATE:

Includes, but is not limited to: 

• Telephone 
• Computer
• Copy Machine
• Calculator
• Fax Machine
•  Wheelchairs/Walkers/ Standers/ Gait Trainers  

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Transfer, lift, carry, push or pull up to 50  pounds
• Ability to repetitively move from sitting to standing position with and without resistance.

• Walking, squatting, crawling, kneeling, moving mats and equipment, standing for periods of up to 30 minutes brief sitting
• Fine dexterity reaching, stretching, and bending

QUALIFICATIONS:

•  Registration with the National Registry of APTA.
•  Licensed as a physical therapist in the state of Illinois.
•  Certification in Infant/Child CPR and Basic First Aid from an approved provider.
•  Current valid driver's license, proof of insurance and a driving record that meets the standards  of the agency.
•  Employment contingent upon satisfactory criminal background check (possible fingerprinting)  TB test, physical exam, clear drug screen, and/or other medical examinations in conformance  with licensing/certification or agency requirements.
• The ability to speak, understand and write English in a manner that is sufficient to effectively  communicate with consumers, supervisors, employees, and others based on the assumption  that such individuals can only speak and understand English.
• Bi-lingual Spanish speaking  persons are encouraged to apply. 

SPECIALIZED SKILLS/ABILITIES/KNOWLEDGE:

•  Interact with participants, families and staff in a positive manner
•  Knowledge of best pediatric occupational therapy practices
•  Familiarity with physical disabilities and developmental issues Comprehension of Easter Seals’ operating policies and procedures Understanding of demographics and population served
• Knowledge of safety and infection control
• Knowledge of legal regulations and compliance standards

Information contained in this Job Description represents the standard method of accomplishing the  duties of this position. The preceding essential functions are not intended to be an exhaustive list of  tasks and functions for this position and it is not intended to limit the right of the employer to assign,  direct or modify the work of employees. Other tasks, duties and functions may be assigned as  needed to fulfill the mission of Easterseals Joliet Region. 

Commitment of All Employees

All employees of Easter Seals Joliet Region are expected to demonstrate commitment to the  agency’s mission, in our service to children and adults with disabilities, their families and the  community at large. Employees are responsible to be familiar and follow the policies and  procedures of the organization and its programs. Employees will endorse and work within the parameters of the Employee Code of Ethics. Employees will demonstrate support of the  events and activities of Easter Seals within their capabilities.