Physical Therapy Assistant

 POSITION SUMMARY:

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) supports the delivery of rehabilitative care for individuals with neurodevelopmental and complex medical conditions. Working under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, the PTA helps implement evidence-based treatment plans to improve mobility, function, and quality of life. This role requires collaboration within a multidisciplinary team, attention to behavioral and developmental needs, and a commitment to clinical excellence, patient advocacy, and regulatory compliance.

JOB-SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

•    Service

o Consistently supports and communicates the Mission, Vision, and Values of Nexus Health Systems

o Upholds the Standards of conduct and corporate compliance

o Demonstrates honest behavior in all matters. To the best of the employee's knowledge and understanding,

complies with all Federal and State laws and regulations.

o Maintains the privacy and security of all confidential and protected health information. Uses and discloses

only that information which is necessary to perform the function of the job.

o Adheres to all Nexus Health Systems policies on Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

(HIPAA), designed to prevent or detect unauthorized disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI)

o Collaborates effectively with colleagues and other departments to ensure seamless service delivery.

•    Clinical Excellence

o Apply evidence-based practice techniques to improve motor control, postural alignment, and functional

movement in patients with neurodevelopmental and behavioral challenges.

o Monitor and document patient progress, adjusting interventions as needed in collaboration with the

supervising therapist.

o Utilize assistive technologies and adaptive equipment to support patient goals and safety.

o Deliver physical therapy services under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist, focusing on

patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.

o Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including occupational therapists, behavioral specialists, and

medical staff to ensure holistic care.

o Assist in the development and implementation of individualized treatment plans that promote mobility,

independence, and participation in daily activities.

•    Patient Experience and Advocacy

o Foster a supportive and empathetic environment for patients and families, recognizing the emotional and

behavioral complexities of neurodevelopmental conditions.

o Educate caregivers on home exercise programs, safety, and equipment use to promote continuity of care.

o Advocate for patient needs within the care team and ensure culturally sensitive communication.

•    Quality Assurance and Compliance 

o Ensures all activities adhere to healthcare regulations and organizational policies. 

o Participates in quality improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery. 

o Promotes a culture of patient safety which results in the identification and reduction of unsafe practices. 

o Adhere to the APTA Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant and comply with all federal, state, and institutional regulations. 

o Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives and contribute to documentation audits and peer reviews. 

o Maintain accurate and timely records in accordance with HIPAA and hospital policies. 

•    Professional Growth and Continuing Education

 o Completes annual education requirements. 

o Maintains competency, as evidenced by completion of competency validation requirements. 

o Maintains competency and knowledge of current standards of practice, trends, and developments. 

o Participates in relevant workshops, seminars, and continuing education courses to stay current with industry trends, healthcare regulations, and best practices. 

o Engage in lifelong learning through continuing education, mentorship, and participation in professional organization. o Attend in-service training and contribute to departmental knowledge-sharing. 

o Stay current with clinical practice guidelines from APTA and other relevant bodies. 

•    Finance 

o Promotes stewardship of hospital resources while ensuring quality patient care. 

o Support cost-effective care delivery by optimizing resource use and minimizing waste. 

o Understand billing procedures and documentation requirements to ensure compliance with payer policies. 

o Contribute to departmental budgeting discussions by identifying equipment and training needs. 

•    Performs other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:

•    Associate degree from a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE)

accredited Physical Therapist Assistant program.

EXPERIENCE:

•    Minimum of 6 months experience working in acute care hospital/rehabilitation center setting.

•    Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in pediatric or neurodevelopmental rehabilitation preferred.

•    Experience working with patients exhibiting behavioral challenges and complex medical needs is highly

desirable.

SKILLS:

•    Strong interpersonal and communication skills, especially with children and families.

•    Proficiency in therapeutic exercise techniques, sensory integration, and mobility training.

•    Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team, demonstrating awareness of team dynamics

and effective coordination.

•    Competence in Electronic Health Record (EHR) documentation, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant

clinical records.

•    Adaptability in dynamic clinical environments and responsiveness to behavioral and medical

complexities.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

•    Current licensure as a Physical Therapist Assistant in the State of Texas.

•    Additional certifications in physical therapy or behavioral health are a plus.

•    BLS (Basic Life Support) from American Heart Association/American Red Cross required, must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from date of hire.

•    De-escalation training within 30 days after hire. 

•    Must maintain current certification in good standing during employment with this facility.