Physical Therapy Assistant

Avera Health, a regional health system based in Sioux Falls, SD, is seeking a compassionate and patient-centered Physical Therapy Assistant to join our Healthcare & Medical Services department. In this role, you will work under the direction and supervision of licensed physical therapists to deliver rehabilitative care that helps patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall function following injury, surgery, or illness. As a Physical Therapy Assistant at Avera Health, you will implement individualized treatment plans designed by the physical therapist, guide patients through therapeutic exercises and functional activities, and utilize appropriate modalities such as heat, cold, and electrical stimulation within your scope of practice. You will carefully observe and document patient responses, progress, and tolerance to treatment, communicating changes or concerns to the supervising physical therapist to support safe, effective, and goal-directed care. You will play a key role in educating patients and their families on home exercise programs, proper body mechanics, injury prevention, and safe use of assistive devices, reinforcing instructions provided by the therapist. Your daily work will include assisting with patient transfers, gait training, balance activities, and mobility tasks, always prioritizing patient safety, comfort, and dignity. You will also help maintain a clean, organized, and safe treatment environment by preparing equipment, monitoring supply levels, and adhering to infection prevention and safety protocols. Aligned with Avera Health’s culture of compassion, hospitality, and stewardship, you will collaborate closely with physical therapists, nurses, physicians, and other members of the interdisciplinary care team to coordinate care and support positive patient outcomes. You will demonstrate respectful, empathetic communication with patients of diverse ages and backgrounds, including those experiencing pain, anxiety, or functional limitations, and you will uphold patient confidentiality and professional ethical standards at all times. This position offers the opportunity to grow professionally within a supportive healthcare network. You will be encouraged to stay current with best practices in physical therapy through continuing education, in‑service training, and active participation in quality improvement initiatives. Avera Health provides an environment where your skills, ideas, and commitment to excellent patient care are valued, and where you can build a rewarding career helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life. The ideal candidate brings strong clinical skills in therapeutic exercise and functional training, solid documentation abilities within an electronic medical record, and the physical capability to assist with patient mobility and positioning. A commitment to teamwork, clear communication, and compassionate, patient‑focused care is essential for success in this role.