Physical Therapy Assistant
Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures. May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist. Generally requires formal training.
Annual openings
341
BLS median wage
$64,810
Typical education
Associate's degree
10-year growth
+19%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
Associate's degree
Credential requirement
A certification is required for this job.
Credential detail
To practice, you will need to be certified by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) by passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for Physical Therapy Assistants.
Work experience
Entry-level
Experience detail
This is an entry-level role so no experience in a Healthcare environment is required. However, full or part-time work experience of any kind developing the listed knowledge and abilities is preferred, with previous Healthcare and Customer Service experience being valued.
Training
To practice, you will need to complete an approved Physical Therapy Assistant Associate's degree.
Employer competency information
Feedback from employers identifies the following critical competencies and how they apply for this job
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills — Working very closely with other team members and patients is critical. It will be very important to understand, connect with, communicate to, and provide instructions to patients, regardless of their background or circumstances.
- Customer Focus — Providing excellent customer service is critical, reimbursements are based on patient feedback and outcomes.
- Critical & Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving & Decision Making — An important skill in developing and implementing patient care plans.
- Psychology — Understanding patients is important in order to be able to motivate them to make positive changes.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Automation exposure
Low exposure
Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.
A typical day
- Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
- Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
- Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.
- Instruct patients in proper body mechanics and in ways to improve functional mobility, such as aquatic exercise.
- Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment.
- Clean work area and check and store equipment after treatment.