Physical Therapy Assistant
Lehigh Valley Health Network
Summary
Provides care under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist. Teaches patients exercise for mobility, strength, and coordination; trains on activities such as walking with crutches, canes, or walkers; teaches massage; demonstrates the use of physical agents and electrotherapy such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation. Measures changes in the patient's performance as a result of the physical therapy provided.
Job description
Job Duties
- Provides appropriate physical therapy treatment consistent with the plan of care and the patient's condition to restore function, prevent disability, and help patients reach their maximum performance level.
- Uses appropriate teaching methods and materials to instruct patients, families, and/or staff in exercise or mobility techniques or the use of equipment.
- Recommends modifications to existing physical therapy treatment plans to achieve maximum results.
- Applies modalities as indicated to aid patients in recovery and/or pain relief.
- Provides cost effective care in accordance with departmental billing guidelines.
- Completes and submits all documentation based on policies/standards and regulatory requirements.
- Communicates regularly with supervising PT regarding patient concerns and progress.
- Select and fits appropriate assistive devices for gait training and instructs patient in proper use.
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate’s Degree in physical therapy assisting.
- Ability to train and mentor others.
- Ability to work at various locations per diem.
- Must be able to provide safe, compassionate, and competent physical therapy treatments.
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire
- PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate’s Degree successful completion of clinical affiliations as required for completion of PTA curriculum.
Physical Demands
Lift and carry 40-50 lbs. Examples: Push/pull patients on bed, stretcher (requires 29 lbs. push force), lateral transfers up to 50 lbs. of the patient's weight. Frequent to continuous standing/walking. Patient transporters can walk 8-10 miles per shift. Patient care providers may be required to perform activities specific to their role including kneeling, bending, squatting and performing CPR.
Requirements
- Associate’s Degree in physical therapy assisting.
- Ability to train and mentor others.
- Ability to work at various locations per diem.
- Must be able to provide safe, compassionate, and competent physical therapy treatments.
- American Heart Association Basic Life Support - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire
- PTA - Physical Therapist Assistant - State of Pennsylvania Upon Hire
Company overview
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is a major healthcare provider and hospital network based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, serving the Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania regions. Founded in 1899, LVHN operates as a comprehensive healthcare system with 13 hospital campuses, 28 health centers, numerous primary and specialty care physician practices, and multiple urgent care locations. The network's flagship facility, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, is Pennsylvania's third-largest hospital and features the state's first Level One Trauma Center. LVHN provides a wide range of medical services including specialized institutes for cancer care, heart and vascular treatment, surgical excellence, orthopedics, and neuroscience. The network operates the third-largest heart surgery program in Pennsylvania, performing over 1,200 open-heart procedures annually, and maintains one of the state's largest cancer centers treating over 2,400 new patients each year. In August 2024, LVHN completed a merger with Jefferson Health, becoming part of a larger healthcare system with 32 hospitals and over 700 locations across Pennsylvania. Prior to the merger, LVHN was the largest employer in the Lehigh Valley metropolitan region, with approximately 20,000 employees dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community.