The role of a home health physical therapist assistant (PTA) might be completely new to you and it could also be exactly what you’re seeking. PTAs use exercise and movement to help patients reduce pain and gain mobility. PTAs get to teach patients how to care for their bodies and heal from a particular ailment. Oftentimes, they do many of the exercises with the patient.
What is a Home Health Physical Therapist Assistant?
A Physical Therapist Assistant is a healthcare assistant also working in the rehabilitation field. PTA’s often assist physical therapists, who have a doctorate degree. Some states say that PTAs must hold a license or associates and other states may not. It is also possible to work in home health without any formal training or certification. Below you will learn what the job of a PTA consists of, and how they fit into the home health care team.
Physical Therapist Assistant jobs responsibilities:
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Assist physical therapist in the treatment for patients. These patients may have a variety of diagnoses and be of all ages. They may also have orthopedic conditions or neurological disorders.
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Prepare all equipment needed for treatment, including setting up the tables and mats. Assist physical therapist in transfers to and from treatment area.
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Assist in carrying out daily established exercise programs in an efficient manner. This can occur in the home.
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Assist in carrying out exercises as directed by the physical therapist. The duties assigned are according to the State Practice Act (State PT Practice Act). They are approved by company policy under the supervision of a licensed PT.
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Assist in progress notes on each patient utilizing prescribed format.
How to Become a Physical Therapist Assistant
To become a PTA, you will need an associates degree also from an accredited program. These programs usually last about two years and cover various aspects of physical therapy. This includes anatomy and physiology and kinesiology. It also includes ethics and legal issues in healthcare.
To be eligible for certification by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), PTA programs require students to complete at least 600 hours of clinical experience during their training period. SABER College’s PTA program is accredited by CAPTE.
Working as a Physical Therapist Assistant
To begin working as a PTA you must have graduated from an accredited program. These programs last around two years and lead to an associates degree. You can also find more information about these programs by visiting the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education website. You can also visit SABER College’s PTA program page. There are also continuing education courses that allow you to learn new skills in the field. Certifications may be offered through your state or through organizations
Start Today
Starting out as a physical therapist assistant can be an exciting and rewarding career. The job offers plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. We hope that we’ve provided you with the information you need to get started on the right foot for a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Keep learning and working hard–and soon enough, you’ll start thinking about going back to school or even opening your own clinic! Saber College can help!
