The Physical Therapist I is responsible and accountable for providing examinations, evaluations, therapy diagnosis, interventions, and prognosis in accordance with established hospital and departmental policies and procedures.  Emphasis on managing daily clinical caseload efficiently including: effective treatment, and appropriate documentation and billing practices. The therapist I will participate in performance improvement and program development activities in accordance with departmental goals and objectives. 

Licensure/Certification/Registry:

• P. T. license in the State of Illinois, or license pending with a valid Authorization to Test letter (ATT) from the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), and application for licensure on file with the IDPFR, is required. The maximum allowable time to practice in a license pending status/under a licensed Physical Therapist is 6 months per licensing regulations.
• CPR Certification preferred.
• If applicable, must possess valid Illinois driver’s license and must be deemed as an acceptable driver in accordance with the MHS Fleet Safety Policy (5 year MVR will be required).

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Achieves & maintains 0-10 points on the Clinical Ladder Grid.
• Basic computer skills required.
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with patients, families, peer and other team members as needed for assessment, intervention, and professional development.
• Must be physically able to lift, support, move patients 50 – 100 lbs.
• Universal Precautions Category I.

1. Perform Patient assessments with patients in a specific service area.

2. Assign a physical therapy treatment diagnosis.

3. Establishes plan of care with objective, measurable goals.

4. Provides interventions supported by evidenced based practice in accordance to the established plan of care.

5. Assesses the effectiveness of treatment and modifies treatment to achieve goals.

6. Plans for discharge.

7. Communicates with patient, family, caregivers and members of team to promote maximum benefit of care.

8. Provide patient care documentation that meets quality standards and supports ethical billing practice.

9. Demonstrates ability to organize workload and manage time effectively.

10. Maintains positive working relationship with patients and referral base.

11. Demonstrates teamwork by routinely offering to help others or assisting others whenever needed.

12. Demonstrates ability to handle difficult and/or stressful situations appropriately.

13. Performs other related work as required or requested.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job.  Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.