Physical Therapy Assistant (DHWC)

Role Overview & Responsibilities

Position Summary

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) provides direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist in an outpatient setting, supporting patients in regaining mobility, managing pain, and improving functional outcomes following injury or illness.

Scope and Impact



* Direct impact on patient recovery, functional mobility, and quality of life


* Supports interdisciplinary care team and contributes to patient treatment outcomes


* Works with diverse patient populations, including underserved communities

Decision Making Authority



* Operates under the direction of a Physical Therapist


* Exercises clinical judgment in progressing treatments within established care plans


* Escalates patient condition changes, reassessment needs, or treatment modifications to supervising Physical Therapist

Interactions / Working Relationships



* Internal: Physical Therapists, interdisciplinary healthcare team members, administrative staff


* External: Patients and their families/caregivers


* Frequent collaboration to coordinate care, communicate progress, and adjust treatment plans

Essential Duties and Responsibilities



* Provide physical therapy treatments in accordance with the Physical Therapist's plan of care (30%)


* Perform therapeutic interventions including exercises, neuromuscular re-education, gait and stair training, manual therapy, and modalities (20%)


* Monitor and adjust treatments to support patient progress toward functional goals (10%)


* Communicate patient status, progress, and concerns to Physical Therapist and care team (10%)


* Assist in patient evaluations by collecting data (e.g., ROM, vitals, muscle testing) (5%)


* Educate patients and families on treatment plans, recovery, and use of assistive devices (10%)


* Fit and train patients on braces, prosthetics, and assistive equipment (5%)


* Complete accurate and timely documentation, including treatment notes and discharge summaries (5%)


* Maintain clinic operations through clerical duties (inventory, supplies, scheduling calls) (3%)


* Ensure compliance with Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners regulations and maintain a safe work environment (2%)

Supervisory or Leadership Responsibilities

This position does not supervise others.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

Education: Associate degree from an accredited Physical Therapy Assistant program

Licenses/Certifications:



* Licensed by Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners (TBPTE)


* CPR certification required

Experience:



* Minimum of two (2) years of experience as a Physical Therapy Assistant

Preferred Qualifications



* Experience working with underserved populations or addressing health disparities


* Bilingual (English/Spanish) proficiency

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)



* Strong communication (verbal and written)...