Home Health Physical Therapist (PT)

Position Summary: The Home Health Physical Therapist (PT) provides rehabilitative care and therapy services to patients in their homes. The PT assesses patients' functional mobility, develops individualized care plans, and delivers physical therapy interventions aimed at improving mobility, strength, safety, and independence. This role involves close collaboration with patients, families, caregivers, and the interdisciplinary team to ensure optimal recovery and quality of life.

Responsibilities:

1. Patient Assessment and Care Planning:

• Perform comprehensive evaluations to assess mobility, strength, balance, gait, and functional limitations.
• Develop individualized care plans based on assessment findings, patient goals, and physician orders.
• Set realistic and measurable goals to improve patients' functional independence and safety.

2. Therapeutic Interventions:

• Provide hands-on physical therapy treatments, including exercises, gait training, balance activities, and manual therapy.
• Train patients and caregivers on safe mobility techniques and use of assistive devices (e.g., walkers, canes).
• Implement fall prevention strategies and safety education.

3. Progress Monitoring and Documentation:

• Regularly reassess patients and update care plans based on progress or changes in condition.
• Accurately document assessments, treatment plans, interventions, and outcomes in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Ensure all documentation complies with Medicare, Medicaid, and agency standards.

4. Education and Collaboration:

• Educate patients and caregivers on home exercises, safety precautions, and ways to maintain mobility.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, including nurses, occupational therapists, and home health aides, to coordinate patient care.
• Communicate effectively with physicians and provide progress reports as needed.

5. Patient Safety and Compliance:

• Assess home environments for potential hazards and recommend modifications to improve safety.
• Adhere to HIPAA guidelines and maintain patient confidentiality.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies, home health regulations, and ethical standards of practice.

6. Supervision:

• Supervise Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) as needed, providing guidance and ensuring care plans are executed appropriately.
• Review and co-sign PTA documentation and progress notes.

Qualifications:

• Education:

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.

• Licensure:

• Current Physical Therapy license in the state of practice (Massachusetts).

• Certifications:

• Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR certification.

• Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in physical therapy; home health experience preferred.

• Familiarity with Medicare home health regulations and documentation requirements (OASIS preferred).

• Skills:

• Strong assessment, clinical, and therapeutic skills.

• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and manage a caseload efficiently.

• Proficiency in using EMR systems and completing timely documentation.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and reach during patient care.

Working Conditions:

• Travel to patients' homes within the service area.
• Flexible scheduling based on patient needs.
• Potential exposure to various home environments and conditions.

Reporting: Reports to the Clinical Manager or Director of Rehabilitation

Flexible work from home options available.