Physical Therapist Assistant (Whole Health)

Full Job Description

The Whole Health Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) is responsible for administering and monitoring therapeutic interventions in collaboration with the Whole Health Clinical Director and Supervisory Physical Therapist.

The PTA works as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide holistic, patient-centered care, focusing on integrating various dimensions of wellness beyond physical health.

Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.

English Language Proficiency: PTA candidates must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. § 7403(f).

Education: Individuals must meet at least one of the requirements below: (1) Associate degree from an accredited community college, junior college, college or university in a physical therapy assistant education program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education; OR (2) Graduate of foreign physical therapy assistant degree programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs.

OR (3) Graduate of military physical therapy assistant programs that meet the educational requirement and have successfully passed the NPTE for PTAs.

Licensure: Current, full, active and unrestricted license as a PTA in a State, Territory or Commonwealth (i.e. Puerto Rico) of the United States, or District of Columbia.

Grade Determinations: GS-08 Physical Therapy Assistant: Experience: One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade.

Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: In addition to the basic requirements, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Ability to independently implement treatment plan using knowledge of techniques related to the patient's disability and needs.

(b) Ability to independently provide varied and multifaceted physical therapy interventions based on the established care plan (e.g., therapeutic exercise, balance, body mechanics, flexibility, strength, gait training, neuromotor development, physical agents, functional training, etc.).

(c) Knowledge of physical therapy data collection and assessment techniques in order to perform specific interventions and to monitor and capture progress of the patient/client.

(d) Ability to instruct patient on varied interventions to provide materials to enhance compliance with home programs.

(e) Ability to modify treatment techniques based on the learning needs and perceptions of the patient. (f) Ability to identify critical changes (e.g.

vital signs, pain, mobility and alertness) in patient conditions to determine their medical and functional status.

(g) Ability to work with PTs and other interdisciplinary healthcare team members to evaluate patient information for planning, modifying and coordinating treatment programs and discharge planning.

Preferred Experience: Comfortable leading a group, willing to complete additional training in tai chi and yoga, preferred experience with persistent pain.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-08.

Physical Requirements: See VA Directive and Handbook 5019, Employee Occupational Health Service for requirements. Major Duties:

Major duties include but not limited to: Implement treatment plans, including exercises, functional training, manual therapy, patient education, and other interventions under the supervision of a licensed Physical Therapist.

Monitor patient progress, modify interventions within the established plan of care as necessary, and communicate changes to the supervising Physical Therapist.

Educate patients and caregivers on therapeutic exercises, home programs, and functional activities to improve health and wellness.

Incorporate Whole Health principles into therapy sessions, addressing aspects such as nutrition, stress management, sleep, and mental health.

Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including Health and Wellness Coaches, Integrative Health Practitioners, and Primary Care Providers.

Document patient care in the electronic health record (EHR) in accordance with VA policies and standards.

Participate in or lead Whole Health education sessions, group classes, and wellness initiatives (e.g., yoga, tai chi).

Advocate for patient needs and preferences, ensuring care protocols respect patient values and holistic goals. Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday; 8:00am to 4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: GS-08 #08854F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized