Physical Therapist (Outpatient)
Clinical Practice-Patient Evaluations:
Patient scheduling request is submitted in a manner as to not negatively impact other clinical staff yet meet the patient's needs. Performs evaluations and assessments of medical/surgical conditions in the Outpatient, CLC and Mental Health Outpatient populations, to include specialized diagnostic tests and evaluations. Patient medical records are reviewed to assess the appropriateness of physical therapy intervention, noting any potential risks or contraindications to treatment. Evaluations include medical history, results, and interpretation of appropriate functional tests and measurements. Tests may need to be adapted because of complex disabilities to determine the level of function using standardized and non-standardized tests. Evaluations address rehabilitation potential, behavior, motor skills, and psychosocial development at an age-appropriate level. Barriers to learning are identified and strategies to overcome them developed and implemented to ensure accurate patient evaluation. Reviews and analyses the effectiveness of treatments and develop new treatment programs which apply current research and evidence-based practice. Assists/encourage other Physical Therapy staff in the same. Demonstrates a full professional understanding of the theories or treatment of physical therapy and their proper application through the use of therapeutic physical rehabilitation and reconditioning procedures. Modifies treatment plan according to patient response to best meet Established goals. Documents treatment progression and/or modifications according to Departmental and Medical Center standards. Recognizes adverse reaction to treatment and initiates effective action immediately. Ensures appropriate patient referrals and discharge planning in concert with the Physical Therapy and Medical Center staff. Consults with staff and resident physicians through patient presentations, attendance at ward rounds, IDT, specialty clinics, and/or conferences. Devises and/or adapts equipment or assistive aids to meet the needs of the severely disabled patient. Measures patients for assistive devices and assesses the need for special home equipment. Ensures the safety of patients, staff, and visitors by routinely monitoring equipment and clinic for potential safety hazards. Adheres to established infection control policies. Responsible for participating and contributing to the advancement of knowledge and techniques related to Physical Therapy and other related topics. Identifies, collects, and analyzes appropriate patient care information to provide a database for research activities within the VA system. Investigates current concepts and scientific principles in Physical Therapy practice through literature reviews, the study of current research, clinical practice, assisting in research trials, and through attendance at continuing education courses and conferences. Arranges for in-service training programs for PM&OHS and other services. Orients, trains, and serves as a mentor to volunteers, aides, students, visitors, and incentive therapy workers who supplement and enhance patient treatment. Responsible for maintaining open communication with patients, families, medical center staff, and others. Seeks clarification, listens and conveys information clearly, in written and verbal forms. Responsible for maintaining open communication with patients, families, medical center staff, and others. Seeks clarification, listens and conveys information clearly, in written and verbal forms. Covers for absent staff members to ensure continuity of care. Administrative:
The incumbent is responsible for reporting any unusual difficulties involving the treatment of patients directly to the Supervisor, Acting Supervisor, or Service Chief of PM&RS, and the referring provider as needed. Establishes and maintains appropriate Quality Assurance monitors relating to patient care and clinic operations which include peer reviews as assigned. Schedules patients for treatment, considering priority and frequency of care, and coordinating schedules with other members of the treatment team. The flexibility of the schedule must allow for the assessment and/or training of unscheduled patients and family members as needed. Assures a high level of productivity and quality care while providing cost-effective treatments. Work Schedule:
Monday through Friday; 8:
00 a.m. to 4:
30 p.m.; Occasional weekends as needed Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements:
Citizenship. Candidates must be a citizen of the United States. After a determination is made that it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens, necessary personnel may be appointed on a temporary basis under authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405 without regard to the citizenship requirements of 38 U.S.C. 7402 or any other law prohibiting the employment of or payment of compensation to a person who is not a citizen of the United States. Candidates must meet all other requirements for the grade and position concerned. Education and Experience. The individual must meet at least one of the requirements below:
Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy AND five (5) years of progressively independent experience as a physical therapist. Master's degree in Physical Therapy AND two (2) years of progressively independent experience as a physical therapist. Doctorate degree in physical therapy. NOTE:
Prior to 1995 the terminal degree for PT's was either a bachelors or master's degree. In 1995 CAPTE accredited all baccalaureate, master's, and Doctor of Physical Therapy terminal degree programs. Effective 2002, CAPTE changed its scope of accrediting activities of PT education programs to include only those programs that culminate in post-baccalaureate degrees(eliminating the baccalaureate degree). Effective 2015, professional physical therapy education programs have only offered the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree to all new students. NOTE:
Individuals must be a graduate of a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited college or university. The CAPTE is the only accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to accredit entry-level physical therapy programs. Verification of accredited programs may be obtained from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) at www.apta.org. Licensure. Individuals hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in a State, Territory or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia. Non-licensed PTs, who otherwise meet the basic requirements in this standard, may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate PT at the GS-11 grade level under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405 (a)(1)(D) for a period not-to-exceed two years from the date of employment on the condition that such PT provide care only under the supervision of a PT who is licensed. Failure to obtain licensure during that period is justification for termination of the temporary appointment. NOTE. Individuals who have or have had multiple licenses and had any such license revoked for professional misconduct, professional incompetency or substandard care, or who surrendered such license after receiving written notice of potential termination of such license by the state for professional misconduct, professional incompetence, or substandard care, are not eligible for appointment to the position unless such revoked or surrendered license is fully restored (38 U.S.C 7402(f)). Effective November 30, 1999, this is a requirement for employment. This requirement does not apply to licensed physical therapists on VA rolls as of November 30, 1999, provided the individual maintains a continuous appointment and is not disqualified for employment by any subsequent revocations or voluntary surrenders of State license, registration or certification. Physical Requirements. Pre-placement and periodic physical examinations are required for hybrid occupations to ensure workers are placed in positions where they can perform the essential functions of their job considering their physical, mental and emotional capacities, without endangering their health or the health of their co-workers. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. Individuals appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C. chapters 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in VHA must be proficient in written and spoken English. See Chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates. GS-11 Physical Therapist (Entry) Education, Experience, and Licensure. None beyond the basic requirements. (NOTE:
See exception to licensure requirement in subparagraph 3c above.) Assignment. PTs at this level are responsible for providing assessment and treatment intervention. PTs plan and modify treatment based on a patient's response to intervention and/or change in medical condition. PTs at this level may be given general assignments in any physical therapy program area where advanced specialized knowledge is not required or may serve as the sole PT such as in an outpatient clinic. Licensed PTs may provide oversight and delegate patient care responsibilities to a Physical Therapist Assistant, and/or delegate non-patient care duties to non-licensed staff. PTs that are not licensed must practice under the close supervision of a licensed PT GS-12 Physical Therapist (Full Performance Level) Education, Experience and Licensure. In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must possess one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, hold a valid unrestricted state license and demonstrate all the KSAs below:
Demonstrated Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Ability to make autonomous clinical decisions in a Direct Access environment. This includes ability to independently evaluate and treat patients who seek physical therapy services. Skill in performing examinations and evaluations of individuals who have or may develop impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions related to conditions of the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and/or integumentary systems while considering the effects attributable to unique psychosocial and environmental factors. Ability to interpret findings from examination and evaluation, select appropriate test and measures, and integrate findings into the physical therapy plan of care for the full range of patient populations. Ability to establish a diagnosis within the scope of physical therapy and identify the appropriate rehabilitation intervention, including referral to another provider for further consultation as clinically indicated. Ability to determine physical therapy prognosis by incorporating examination findings with the patient's preferences in order to set clinically appropriate treatment goals, optimize outcomes and maximize functional independence. Ability to independently provide clinical oversight of Physical Therapy Assistants as well as students on clinical affiliations who are in Doctoral PT Programs or PTA Programs. References:
VA HANDBOOK 5005/99, PART II, APPENDIX G12, APPENDIX G12. PHYSICAL THERAPIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD GS-0633 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-11 to GS-12. Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
Patient scheduling request is submitted in a manner as to not negatively impact other clinical staff yet meet the patient's needs. Performs evaluations and assessments of medical/surgical conditions in the Outpatient, CLC and Mental Health Outpatient populations, to include specialized diagnostic tests and evaluations. Patient medical records are reviewed to assess the appropriateness of physical therapy intervention, noting any potential risks or contraindications to treatment. Evaluations include medical history, results, and interpretation of appropriate functional tests and measurements. Tests may need to be adapted because of complex disabilities to determine the level of function using standardized and non-standardized tests. Evaluations address rehabilitation potential, behavior, motor skills, and psychosocial development at an age-appropriate level. Barriers to learning are identified and strategies to overcome them developed and implemented to ensure accurate patient evaluation. Reviews and analyses the effectiveness of treatments and develop new treatment programs which apply current research and evidence-based practice. Assists/encourage other Physical Therapy staff in the same. Demonstrates a full professional understanding of the theories or treatment of physical therapy and their proper application through the use of therapeutic physical rehabilitation and reconditioning procedures. Modifies treatment plan according to patient response to best meet Established goals. Documents treatment progression and/or modifications according to Departmental and Medical Center standards. Recognizes adverse reaction to treatment and initiates effective action immediately. Ensures appropriate patient referrals and discharge planning in concert with the Physical Therapy and Medical Center staff. Consults with staff and resident physicians through patient presentations, attendance at ward rounds, IDT, specialty clinics, and/or conferences. Devises and/or adapts equipment or assistive aids to meet the needs of the severely disabled patient. Measures patients for assistive devices and assesses the need for special home equipment. Ensures the safety of patients, staff, and visitors by routinely monitoring equipment and clinic for potential safety hazards. Adheres to established infection control policies. Responsible for participating and contributing to the advancement of knowledge and techniques related to Physical Therapy and other related topics. Identifies, collects, and analyzes appropriate patient care information to provide a database for research activities within the VA system. Investigates current concepts and scientific principles in Physical Therapy practice through literature reviews, the study of current research, clinical practice, assisting in research trials, and through attendance at continuing education courses and conferences. Arranges for in-service training programs for PM&OHS and other services. Orients, trains, and serves as a mentor to volunteers, aides, students, visitors, and incentive therapy workers who supplement and enhance patient treatment. Responsible for maintaining open communication with patients, families, medical center staff, and others. Seeks clarification, listens and conveys information clearly, in written and verbal forms. Responsible for maintaining open communication with patients, families, medical center staff, and others. Seeks clarification, listens and conveys information clearly, in written and verbal forms. Covers for absent staff members to ensure continuity of care. Administrative:
The incumbent is responsible for reporting any unusual difficulties involving the treatment of patients directly to the Supervisor, Acting Supervisor, or Service Chief of PM&RS, and the referring provider as needed. Establishes and maintains appropriate Quality Assurance monitors relating to patient care and clinic operations which include peer reviews as assigned. Schedules patients for treatment, considering priority and frequency of care, and coordinating schedules with other members of the treatment team. The flexibility of the schedule must allow for the assessment and/or training of unscheduled patients and family members as needed. Assures a high level of productivity and quality care while providing cost-effective treatments. Work Schedule:
Monday through Friday; 8:
00 a.m. to 4:
30 p.m.; Occasional weekends as needed Financial Disclosure Report:
Not required Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements:
Citizenship. Candidates must be a citizen of the United States. After a determination is made that it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens, necessary personnel may be appointed on a temporary basis under authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405 without regard to the citizenship requirements of 38 U.S.C. 7402 or any other law prohibiting the employment of or payment of compensation to a person who is not a citizen of the United States. Candidates must meet all other requirements for the grade and position concerned. Education and Experience. The individual must meet at least one of the requirements below:
Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy AND five (5) years of progressively independent experience as a physical therapist. Master's degree in Physical Therapy AND two (2) years of progressively independent experience as a physical therapist. Doctorate degree in physical therapy. NOTE:
Prior to 1995 the terminal degree for PT's was either a bachelors or master's degree. In 1995 CAPTE accredited all baccalaureate, master's, and Doctor of Physical Therapy terminal degree programs. Effective 2002, CAPTE changed its scope of accrediting activities of PT education programs to include only those programs that culminate in post-baccalaureate degrees(eliminating the baccalaureate degree). Effective 2015, professional physical therapy education programs have only offered the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree to all new students. NOTE:
Individuals must be a graduate of a Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) accredited college or university. The CAPTE is the only accreditation agency recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) to accredit entry-level physical therapy programs. Verification of accredited programs may be obtained from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) at www.apta.org. Licensure. Individuals hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice physical therapy in a State, Territory or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia. Non-licensed PTs, who otherwise meet the basic requirements in this standard, may be given a temporary appointment as a graduate PT at the GS-11 grade level under the authority of 38 U.S.C. 7405 (a)(1)(D) for a period not-to-exceed two years from the date of employment on the condition that such PT provide care only under the supervision of a PT who is licensed. Failure to obtain licensure during that period is justification for termination of the temporary appointment. NOTE. Individuals who have or have had multiple licenses and had any such license revoked for professional misconduct, professional incompetency or substandard care, or who surrendered such license after receiving written notice of potential termination of such license by the state for professional misconduct, professional incompetence, or substandard care, are not eligible for appointment to the position unless such revoked or surrendered license is fully restored (38 U.S.C 7402(f)). Effective November 30, 1999, this is a requirement for employment. This requirement does not apply to licensed physical therapists on VA rolls as of November 30, 1999, provided the individual maintains a continuous appointment and is not disqualified for employment by any subsequent revocations or voluntary surrenders of State license, registration or certification. Physical Requirements. Pre-placement and periodic physical examinations are required for hybrid occupations to ensure workers are placed in positions where they can perform the essential functions of their job considering their physical, mental and emotional capacities, without endangering their health or the health of their co-workers. See VA Directive and Handbook 5019. English Language Proficiency. Individuals appointed under authority of 38 U.S.C. chapters 73 or 74, to serve in a direct patient-care capacity in VHA must be proficient in written and spoken English. See Chapter 2, section D, paragraph 5a, this part. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations:
In addition to the basic requirements for appointment, the following criteria must be used when determining the appropriate grade assignment of candidates. GS-11 Physical Therapist (Entry) Education, Experience, and Licensure. None beyond the basic requirements. (NOTE:
See exception to licensure requirement in subparagraph 3c above.) Assignment. PTs at this level are responsible for providing assessment and treatment intervention. PTs plan and modify treatment based on a patient's response to intervention and/or change in medical condition. PTs at this level may be given general assignments in any physical therapy program area where advanced specialized knowledge is not required or may serve as the sole PT such as in an outpatient clinic. Licensed PTs may provide oversight and delegate patient care responsibilities to a Physical Therapist Assistant, and/or delegate non-patient care duties to non-licensed staff. PTs that are not licensed must practice under the close supervision of a licensed PT GS-12 Physical Therapist (Full Performance Level) Education, Experience and Licensure. In addition to the basic requirements, candidates must possess one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level, hold a valid unrestricted state license and demonstrate all the KSAs below:
Demonstrated Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Ability to make autonomous clinical decisions in a Direct Access environment. This includes ability to independently evaluate and treat patients who seek physical therapy services. Skill in performing examinations and evaluations of individuals who have or may develop impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions related to conditions of the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and/or integumentary systems while considering the effects attributable to unique psychosocial and environmental factors. Ability to interpret findings from examination and evaluation, select appropriate test and measures, and integrate findings into the physical therapy plan of care for the full range of patient populations. Ability to establish a diagnosis within the scope of physical therapy and identify the appropriate rehabilitation intervention, including referral to another provider for further consultation as clinically indicated. Ability to determine physical therapy prognosis by incorporating examination findings with the patient's preferences in order to set clinically appropriate treatment goals, optimize outcomes and maximize functional independence. Ability to independently provide clinical oversight of Physical Therapy Assistants as well as students on clinical affiliations who are in Doctoral PT Programs or PTA Programs. References:
VA HANDBOOK 5005/99, PART II, APPENDIX G12, APPENDIX G12. PHYSICAL THERAPIST QUALIFICATION STANDARD GS-0633 The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-12. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-11 to GS-12. Physical Requirements:
See VA Directive and Handbook 5019.
- Department:
0633 Physical Therapist - Salary Range:
$79,124 to $103,669 per year
Estimated Salary: $20 to $28 per hour based on qualifications.
|
|
 | |
