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Physical Therapist Assistant Career Guide

Job Description:

Assist physical therapists in providing physical therapy treatments and procedures.
May, in accordance with state laws, assist in the development of treatment plans, carry out routine functions, document the progress of treatment, and modify specific treatments in accordance with patient status and within the scope of treatment plans established by a physical therapist.
Generally requires formal training.

Physical Therapist Assistant Salary 2024

National Salary Data for Physical Therapist Assistants

This bar graph shows the annual salary for Physical Therapist Assistants.

U.S. Salary in 2024

Annual Median Salary: $62,770

Hourly Median Wage: $30.18

Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Projected Employment for Physical Therapist Assistants

Job Growth Projections

This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Physical Therapist Assistants.

Projected Job Openings for s by 2031

Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 27%

Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Typical Tasks for Physical Therapist Assistants

Document patient information, such as notes on their progress.
Instruct, motivate, safeguard, and assist patients as they practice exercises or functional activities.
Observe patients during treatments to compile and evaluate data on their responses and progress and provide results to physical therapist in person or through progress notes.

Technologies and Skills Used by Physical Therapist Assistants

Data base user interface and query software

FileMaker Pro
Microsoft Access

Medical software

Medical condition coding software
eClinicalWorks EHR software

Presentation software

Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Social

Looking for ways to help people
Understanding people's reactions

How To Become a Physical Therapist Assistant

Becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) is an attractive career path for those interested in joining the healthcare field and working closely with patients to improve their physical function. The role involves assisting physical therapists in their treatment plans, working with patients to perform exercises, and using therapeutic modalities under the direction of a licensed Physical Therapist (PT). If you're considering this fulfilling career, here's what you need to do:

Education Requirements

To start your career as a PTA, you'll need to complete certain educational prerequisites. Here's what's typically required:

High School Diploma or GED: Your journey begins with a basic education. Ensure you have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Accredited PTA Program: Enroll in an accredited PTA program. These programs usually last about two years and result in an Associate's degree. You can find accredited programs through the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

Licensing and Certification

Once you've completed your education, the next step is to obtain licensure:

National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs: You must pass this exam to practice as a PTA. The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) administers the exam.
State Licensure: Each state has its own licensing requirements. After passing the NPTE, apply for a license in the state where you wish to practice. Visit your state’s physical therapy board website for specific information.

Skills and Experience

In addition to education and licensing, PTAs should possess certain skills and may need experience:

Clinical Experience: Many PTA programs include clinical internships or externships that provide real-world experience.
Interpersonal Skills: As a PTA, you’ll work closely with patients, so strong communication and empathy are essential.
Physical Stamina: The job can be physically demanding, requiring you to stand for long periods and assist patients with exercises.

Continuing Education

To maintain your license and stay current in the field:

Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Most states require PTAs to complete CEUs to maintain licensure. Check your state's requirements for specifics.
Specialty Certifications: Consider obtaining specialty certifications to advance your career and specialize in areas like pediatrics or geriatrics.

Job Outlook and Advancement

The demand for PTAs is expected to grow due to an aging population and increased emphasis on outpatient care. Opportunities for advancement include:

Specialized Clinical Roles: With experience and additional training, PTAs can focus on specific patient populations or conditions.
Management Positions: Some PTAs move into supervisory or administrative roles within clinics or hospitals.

Networking and Professional Development

Engaging with professional organizations can aid in career advancement:

Join Professional Associations: Organizations like the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) offer networking opportunities and resources.
Attend Conferences and Workshops: These events can provide valuable learning experiences and help you stay informed about industry trends.

By following these steps and committing to lifelong learning, you can build a rewarding career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Remember to stay proactive about your professional development and adapt to the evolving landscape of healthcare to ensure ongoing success in this field.

Physical Therapist Assistant Career Path FAQ's

What education do I need to become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)?

To become a PTA, you'll need to complete an accredited physical therapist assistant program, typically resulting in an Associate's degree. These programs usually take two years to complete and include both classroom education and clinical experience.

Is licensure required to practice as a PTA?

Yes, all states in the United States require PTAs to be licensed or certified. The requirements for licensure generally include:

Graduating from an accredited PTA program
Passing the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs

You can find more information about state-specific requirements on the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT) website.

What is the job outlook for PTAs?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of physical therapist assistants is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations. Aging populations and the increasing demand for physical therapy services contribute to this growth.

Can PTAs specialize in specific areas of physical therapy?

Yes, experienced PTAs have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as:

Orthopedics
Pediatrics
Geriatrics
Sports physical therapy
Neurology

Specialization may require additional education, training, or certification.

What are the typical work settings for a PTA?

PTAs work in a variety of settings, including:

Hospitals
Outpatient clinics or offices
Rehabilitation facilities
Skilled nursing facilities
Home health agencies
Schools

What skills are important for a successful PTA career?

Key skills for a PTA include:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills
A good understanding of physical therapy techniques
The ability to follow a physical therapist's plan of care accurately
Compassion and a desire to help patients improve their quality of life

Is there room for advancement in a PTA career?

PTAs can advance their careers by:

Gaining additional certifications or specializations
Pursuing further education, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a related field
Moving into administrative or managerial roles within a healthcare setting

What continuing education is required for PTAs?

PTAs must complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure. The number of hours and the types of courses required vary by state. You can check your state's requirements on the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website.

Can PTAs transition to become Physical Therapists (PTs)?

Yes, some PTAs choose to continue their education to become physical therapists. This typically involves completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which is an additional three years of full-time study beyond the PTA degree. Admission into DPT programs can be competitive, and having experience as a PTA may be beneficial.