Jurisdiction: Cortland County

Jurisdictional Class: Competitive

Adopted: 10/20/05

Amended: 6/19/09; 4/22/10

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:

The incumbent evaluates, plans and provides physical therapy treatment to patients in accordance with a referral from a physician or appropriate mid-level practitioner. The work is performed under the general supervision of a higher level administrator, with leeway permitted for exercising independent judgment in carrying out the details of the work. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: (Illustrative only)

Performs initial screening, evaluation and consultation for patients referred to the program;

Develops goals, treatment objectives and therapeutic activities and tasks to be incorporated into the patient's individualized treatment plan;

Implements physical therapy or oversees activities implemented by therapy assistants or other staff providing guidance as necessary;

Maintains written case notes and other documentation as required by state law or local regulations;

Attends and participates in staff conferences on patient needs and progress;

Meets with physicians and other staff to coordinate physical therapy treatment, review patient progress and adjust goals and activities as necessary;

Develops home based programs where appropriate;

Assesses and makes recommendations regarding adaptive and orthotic equipment needs and monitors equipment status;

Assists in developing and coordinating case-related in-service training;

Maintains daily time sheets and Medicaid statistic sheets as appropriate.

Participates in professional meetings and conferences to keep abreast of and coordinate health care developments and approaches.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS:

Thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and objectives of physical therapy;

Good knowledge of physical therapy equipment and apparatus;

Good knowledge of pathological conditions and socio-economic factors affecting a patient’s disabilities;

Ability to organize and maintain accurate records and files;

Ability to understand and interpret complex oral instructions and/or written directions;

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing;

Ability to deal effectively with the public;

Ability to understand and empathize with the needs and concerns of others;

Ability to plan and schedule workload to maximize capacity;

Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Page 2

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Licensure and current registration to practice as a Licensed Physical Therapist AND experience as a Physical Therapist, involving work with children ages birth to five years of age.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: