Physical Therapist Aides: Job Description, Examples and Education Requirements
Physical therapist aides or assistants work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to provide hands-on care to patients who require physical rehabilitation services. They are responsible for helping patients move and perform exercises as prescribed by the therapist, also they are required to perform clerical tasks such as answering phones, setting appointments, and keeping the treatment room clean and organized.
Job Description and Examples
The role of a physical therapist aide varies depending on the healthcare facility or organization they work for. These are some of the common duties and responsibilities of a physical therapist aide:
- Assisting patients in performing exercises and stretches
- Helping patients move to their therapy sessions
- Preparing treatment areas for therapy sessions
- Providing patients with activities for their exercise programs
- Setting up and cleaning equipment used in therapy sessions
- Answering phones and scheduling appointments
- Completing necessary paperwork and patient charts
Physical therapist aides are mainly employed in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, clinics, and private practices. They work directly with patients to ensure their comfort and safety during therapy sessions and also make sure that the therapy equipment is well-maintained and cleaned after each use.
Education and Training Requirements
To become a physical therapist aide, you’ll need to meet certain educational and training requirements. These can vary depending on the employer but generally include the following:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a postsecondary certificate or diploma program in physical therapist assisting
- Experience working in a healthcare setting
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the job, such as lifting and moving patients
Most schools that offer physical therapist aide training require students to complete a certain number of hours of clinical practice in a healthcare facility or private practice. This will provide you with hands-on experience working with patients and help you develop the skills necessary to be successful in your career.
Progression and Advancement
Physical therapist aides may have the opportunity to advance their careers by gaining more experience or pursuing additional education or training. Some career progression options for physical therapist aides include:
- Becoming a Physical Therapist Technician
- Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy
- Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant
To move up in the field, you may need to complete additional education and training to gain the necessary skills and knowledge required for more senior positions. Some employers may also require additional certifications or licensure before promoting a physical therapist aide to a higher-level position.
How to Get into the Field
If you’re interested in becoming a physical therapist aide, there are several steps you can take to get started in the field:
- Research educational programs and certifications
- Attend an information session or open house at a school or training center
- Gain experience working in a healthcare setting
- Complete a physical therapist aide certificate or diploma program
- Obtain necessary certifications or licensure as required by your state or employer
Physical therapist aides play a critical role in providing hands-on care to patients who require physical rehabilitation services. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this field, it is important to obtain the necessary education and training to gain the skills needed to be successful. With the right training and qualifications, you can develop a rewarding and fulfilling career helping others improve their physical health.
Physical therapist aides assist physical therapists in providing treatment to patients who have suffered physical injuries or illnesses. Their duties may include cleaning and preparing treatment areas, helping patients with exercises, and assisting with therapeutic equipment. The job level for physical therapist aides is typically Level 03 or Level 04, depending on the employer.
According to salary data, the US national average salary for physical therapist aides is $30,451.20 – $36,649.60, with full-time workers earning between $32,926.40 – $37,169.60. Nonunion physical therapist aides earn an average of $32,344.00, while time-based pay workers earn an average of $33,051.20.
The effects of unions on physical therapist aides can vary. While union membership may provide job security and better benefits, it could also lead to stricter work rules and less flexibility in scheduling.
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, physical therapist aides earn the highest average salaries in the following geographies:
1. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA Metropolitan Division – $40,520
2. Vallejo-Fairfield, CA Metropolitan Division – $38,540
On the other hand, physical therapist aides earn the least average salaries in the following geographies:
1. Southeast Mississippi nonmetropolitan area – $21,650
2. Athens-Clarke County, GA – $22,140
Overall, the salary data suggests that physical therapist aides can earn a decent income, and full-time workers tend to earn higher salaries. However, salaries can vary depending on location and employer, and union membership may have different effects depending on individual circumstances.
| Job Level | Salary (National Average) |
|———–|————————–|
| Level 03 | $30,451.20 – $32,344.00 |
| Level 04 | $30,825.60 – $36,920.00 |
| Nonunion | $29,057.60 |
| Full-time | $32,926.40 – $37,169.60 |
| Time-based pay | $30,076.80 – $33,051.20 |
Top-paying geographic regions:
| Metropolitan Area | Average Salary |
|——————-|—————|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA Metropolitan Division | $40,520 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA Metropolitan Division | $38,540 |
Lowest-paying geographic regions:
| Metropolitan Area | Average Salary |
|——————-|—————|
| Southeast Mississippi nonmetropolitan area | $21,650 |
| Athens-Clarke County, GA | $22,140 |
