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Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapy assistants carry out routine physical treatments under the supervision of a physical therapist. They observe and monitor patients' behavior and progress and report all patient responses to the physical therapist.
Physical therapy aides will perform many of the same duties as the physical therapist, but are not allowed to design programs and therapies.
Physical therapy aides perform specific routine tasks within the physical therapy department.
| Some of the responsibilities include: |
| • | Administrative and clerical duties |
| • | Transport of equipment, supplies and patients |
| • | Assist patients in performing exercises and activities of daily living |
| • | Prepare treatment areas |
| • | Assist in performing tests and evaluations of treatment procedures |
| • | Apply stimulants |
| • | Trains patients to adapt to splints, braces and artificial limbs |
| • | Observes and reports the patient's response to the supervising physical therapist |
Most physical therapy assistants work in general and specialized hospitals, while others work in clinics, health maintenance organizations, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, schools for handicapped children, and private offices.
Job Outlook
Excellent. Many students wishing to become physical therapists will find that prior employment as a physical therapy assistant or physical therapy aide is a solid background for acceptance into a physical therapy program.
Educational Requirements
Physical therapy assistants must complete a two-year associate degree program at a junior or community college. The program must be accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association. Physical therapy assistants must be licensed by the
Illinois Department of Professional Licensure.
Physical therapy aides are trained on the job and do not require licensure.
Recommended high school courses should include math and science.
Educational Programs - Chicago Area
Other Programs - Illinois
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