about physical therapist career
Considering a career change: How about Physical Therapist Assistant?
There are several reasons why people contemplate switching careers, with the most common ones being dissatisfaction, the desire for better pay, increased flexibility, and higher job satisfaction. Fortunately, a career as a physical therapist assistant (PTA) can address these needs. Physical therapy is among the top twenty occupations for job growth, flexibility, and job satisfaction, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Why do people change careers?
About physical therapist career - There are several reasons why people may choose to pursue a career in physical therapy as a change from their current profession or career path. Some of these reasons include:
- Personal interest: Some individuals have a personal interest in health and wellness, and enjoy working with and helping people improve their physical function and mobility.
- Job growth and stability: The demand for physical therapists is projected to grow in the coming years, making it a stable and secure career choice.
- Work-life balance: Physical therapy can offer a good work-life balance, with flexible scheduling options and the ability to work part-time or in different settings.
- Career advancement: There are opportunities for career advancement within the field of physical therapy, including specialized areas of practice and management positions.
- Higher earning potential: Physical therapists can earn a good salary, and there may be opportunities for bonuses and other incentives based on performance.
Overall, people may choose to change careers and pursue physical therapy for a variety of reasons, and it ultimately depends on the individual's personal and professional goals.
What makes physical therapist assistant a good career choice?
There are several reasons why becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) can be a great career choice, including:
- High demand: The demand for PTAs is expected to grow in the coming years, meaning there will be plenty of job opportunities available.
- Competitive salary: PTAs can earn a good salary, with a median annual wage of around $60,000.
- Flexibility: Many PTAs have the option to work part-time or in different settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or home health care.
- Helping people: PTAs play an important role in helping people improve their physical function and mobility, making a positive impact on their patients' lives.
- Career advancement: PTAs have opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a physical therapist or pursuing specialized areas of practice.
- Job satisfaction: Many people find working as a PTA to be fulfilling and rewarding, as they are able to make a difference in their patients' lives.
Overall, becoming a PTA can be a good career choice for those who are interested in helping others improve their physical function and mobility, and who are looking for a stable, flexible, and rewarding career.
What attributes make a good PTA?
There are several attributes that can make someone a good Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), including:
- Strong communication skills: PTAs need to be able to communicate effectively with patients, their families, and other members of the healthcare team.
- Good interpersonal skills: PTAs should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with patients.
- Empathy: A good PTA is empathetic and able to understand their patients' needs and concerns.
- Physical stamina: The job of a PTA can be physically demanding, so good physical stamina and strength are important.
- Attention to detail: PTAs need to pay close attention to detail when following treatment plans and recording patient progress.
- Flexibility: PTAs should be adaptable and able to work with a variety of patients with different needs and abilities.
- Desire to learn: A good PTA is always looking to expand their knowledge and skills in the field of physical therapy.
Overall, becoming a successful PTA requires a combination of technical skills, empathy, strong communication and interpersonal skills, physical stamina, attention to detail, flexibility, and a desire to learn and grow in the field of physical therapy.
What does it take to become a PTA?
To become a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), you typically need to complete a few key steps, including:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is typically required for admission to a PTA program.
- Complete an accredited PTA program: PTAs are required to complete an accredited PTA program, which typically takes about 2 years. These programs can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and some universities.
- Complete clinical experience: In addition to coursework, PTAs are also required to complete clinical experience in which they work with real patients under the supervision of licensed physical therapists.
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE): After completing an accredited PTA program, you must pass the NPTE, which is a national exam that tests your knowledge and competency in physical therapy.
- Obtain state licensure: In addition to passing the NPTE, PTAs must also obtain state licensure in order to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state, but typically involve passing an additional exam and meeting other state-specific requirements.
Overall, becoming a PTA requires completing an accredited program, gaining clinical experience, passing the NPTE, and obtaining state licensure.
Are there physical therapist assistant jobs?
Yes, there are physical therapist assistant (PTA) jobs available in a variety of healthcare settings. As the demand for healthcare services continues to grow, so does the demand for PTAs. PTAs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, schools, and home health care.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PTAs is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging baby boomer population, which is increasing demand for physical therapy services.
In addition to job growth, PTAs can also earn a competitive salary. The median annual wage for PTAs was around $60,000 in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Overall, there are plenty of PTA jobs available in the healthcare industry, and the outlook for job growth in this field is strong.