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Degrees and Schools
Most physical therapy aides learn on-the-job. Usually they are not required to earn a certificate or an undergraduate degree. However, they can gain a competitive advantage by obtaining a physical therapist assisting associate degree.
Classes
For those seeking a physical therapy aide position that decide to obtain a physical therapist assisting associate degree, they typically study the following subjects:
- Body Movement
- Exercise and strengthening techniques
- Human body structure and internal system functions
- Common physical disorders
- Nature of disease
- Human anatomy
Online Classes and Programs
Some schools offer online physical therapist assistant programs. The programs include coursework and web-based video instruction. Due to the nature of the work of a physical therapists assistant, many accredited programs recommend students get some laboratory training at a site determined by the school.
Employment Requirements
Most physical therapist aides are trained on-the-job. Most employers require physical therapy aides to have a high school diploma. Physical therapy aides are not required to have a license.
The major employers are offices of health practitioners and hospitals. Other significant employers are nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers and home healthcare services.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the questions shown below can help students select the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program provide a substantial amount of hands-on learning? Does the program provide students an externship?
- Classes - Does the school provide small class sizes?
- Job Placement - Does the school provide job placement services?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school eligible to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Has the school been provided accreditation by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Physical Therapy Aides Job Description
Physical therapy aides perform tasks such as preparing for each patent's therapy and keeping the treatment area organized and clean. They also perform clerical tasks such as answering the telephone, ordering supplies, filling out insurance forms and other paperwork.
Physical therapy aides work under the supervision of a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant. Since physical therapy aides are not licensed they cannot perform the clinical tasks of a physical therapist assistant in states where a license is required.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Discuss with physical therapy staff members patient information for planning, modifying and coordinating treatment
- Maintain records of treatment given and equipment used
- Compile data on patients' responses and progress
- Transport patients to and from treatment areas
- Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment
- Change linens
- Answer the telephone
Resources
- American Physical Therapy Association
- A world of Physical Therapy
- Journal of the American Physical Therapy Association
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