Summary This position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), a student loan payment reimbursement program. You must meet specific eligibility requirements per VHA policy and submit your EDRP application within four months of appointment. Program Approval, award amount (up to $200,000) & eligibility period (one to five years) are determined by the VHA Education Loan Repayment Services program office after review of the EDRP application. Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply. Responsibilities The incumbent is responsible for administering physical therapy programs to adult and geriatric patients referred from Alaska VA or community providers. Duties will include: Evaluates and assesses patients, as assigned, to determine the treatment course to be followed. Performs tests and measurements of muscles, nerves, range of motion, posture, strength, ambulation, circulatory, and respiratory status using various mechanical and electrical means. Performs and interprets results of tests and measurement of the patient's condition for use in preparing and treatment plan, modifying treatment, and evaluating results of treatment. Also performs test to determine existence of neurological disease or conditions. Carries out test procedures, determines kind and degree of muscular reaction to tests and interprets results of tests. Assists with home safety evaluations, HISA grants and wheelchair seating and power mobility devices, consisting of home assessment for various areas of concern. For example, assessment of safety issues and concerns surrounding transfers throughout the home, mobility and getting around, and determining the appropriate equipment the patient may need to function more safely at home. This may require travel to various locations in the greater area for assessments to be completed. The anticipated amount of travel would likely be less than 25% of total work time. Performs stimulation of the peripheral and central nervous systems as a non-invasive means of therapy for the control of chronic pain. Responsibilities include the performance and the planning, administration, and modification of therapeutic interventions that focus on posture, locomotion, strength, endurance, cardiopulmonary function, balance, coordination, joint mobility, flexibility, pain, healing and repair, and functional abilities in daily living skills, including work. Plans and implements a comprehensive treatment regimen designed to maximize functional potential of the patient, using a myriad of treatment modalities and procedures, including but not limited to therapeutic exercise, manual therapies, cryotherapy, heat therapy, neuromuscular facilitation, muscle re-education, electrical stimulation, sensory integration techniques, positioning, application of assistive devices and joint protection techniques, and works toward goals established to meet specific and individualized needs. Must constantly review the intervention strategy and the treatment process to make adjustments as the patient either progresses or fails to progress within predicted periods. Works toward goals for patients with multiple physical/functional problems, frequently changing/modifying treatment plans. Participates in various clinics and programs consisting of, but not limited to, wheelchair seating and mobility, amputation clinics, etc. Regularly attends continuing education programs on issues pertaining to evaluation and treatment of general musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, neurological problems, both acute and chronic. Uses standard and non-standard methods for evaluation and interpretation of a wide variety of patient physical functional levels and providing progressive treatment. Independently develops and implements a physical therapy treatment program using judgment to modify treatment for changing medical conditions or because of a variety of severe physical disabilities. Compiles daily, weekly, or monthly statistics for ongoing reporting. Works effectively with treatment team members and other healthcare providers in coordinating the patient's total care. Assists during emergency situations including initiating and/or assisting with CPR. Develops and coordinates educational materials for the caregiver of the disabled veteran to prevent premature institutionalization and promote safety in the home environment. Assist with the Performance Improvement efforts for the Physical Therapy section, following activities that detect and remedy deficiencies in process and outcome of PT services. Maintain clinic areas, equipment and supplies in a clean and organized manner to promote quality treatment in a safe and functionally appropriate environment. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorized EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact , the EDRP Coordinator for questions/assistance. Learn more Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized Requirements Conditions of Employment You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Must possess a valid driver's license and be cleared to drive a government vehicle. Complete all application requirements detailed in the
Job Title
Physical Therapist