Physical Therapist

Physical Therapists work with individuals who have a permanent or temporary impairment in their physical or mental functioning. They help patients to recover and improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments. Physical Therapists help patients to improve their basic motor functions and to compensate for permanent loss of function.

Tasks

• Assess patients' occupational performance by methods such as reviewing records, interviewing the patient and his family, and gathering relevant information;
• Plan individual and/or group physical therapy treatment programs;
• Implement physical therapy treatment programs to promote, develop, maintain and/or restore occupational performance potential;
• Delegate components of treatment to assistants/aides by instructing, observing and monitoring treatment provided to ensure quality patient care;
• Maintain patient records including clinical outcomes and progress;
• Instruct those with permanent disabilities in the use of adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, orthotics and aids for eating and dressing.

Basic Educational Requirement

A Physical Therapist must be a graduate of a bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy. There are employers who require the equivalent license issued by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

Skills and Competencies

Demonstrated ability to:

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing;
• Teach, consult and advise;
• Work independently and as a member of a team;
• Plan, organize and conduct therapy treatment programs;
• Use tact and understanding in dealing with patients, family members and caregivers;
• Perform duties under stressful conditions;
• Prepare and maintain accurate, concise case records of patients;
• Operate related adaptive equipment.
• Utilize computer software programs incorporated in clinical practices.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

A Physical Therapist must be patient and must have strong interpersonal skills to earn the trust and respect of their clients. Patience is necessary because many clients may not show rapid improvement. Ingenuity and imagination in adapting to individual needs are also important. Those working in home health care services must be able to adapt to a variety of settings.

Salary/Compensation

Physical Therapists in hospitals make around P12,000 per month, while those in private practice may earn as much as P42,000 to P52,000 per month.

Employment Opportunities

Physical Therapists can work in various settings:

• hospitals and other healthcare and community based facilities;
• large rehabilitation centers; and
• home health care services.

Physical Therapists are also increasingly taking on supervisory roles with physical therapy assistants and aides taking more hands-on responsibility. Assistants and aides now work more closely with clients under the supervision of a therapist. The demand for Physical Therapists is expected to rise as a result of the growth in the number of individuals with disabilities or limited function who require therapy services.

Cost of Education *

Public College/University - approximately P45,000
Private College/University - may range from P160,000 to 430,000 depending on school category.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2007-2008

Source: Bureau of Local Employment, Manila, Philippines.