How to Become a Physical Therapy Aide in Pennsylvania
Those who enjoy helping others may be able to find a great career as a physical therapy aide.
Before individuals can begin, however, they need to receive the proper training and education as well as any special state requirements necessary to get a job.
Education and Training
Prerequisites
To become a physical therapy aide in Pennsylvania you must have at least a high school diploma or GED to be considered for the position, though you can receive on-the-job training once you begin.
However, some roles require that you obtain additional education before you can start your role as a physical therapy aide.
How Much Does It Cost
Cost can vary depending on which school or program you take, though you can potentially enroll in a physical therapy aide program for under $1,000. Financial aid may be available for those who qualify.
Physical Therapy Aide Licensing
While you need a license to become a physical therapist assistant, the role of a physical therapist aide in Pennsylvania does not require a license.
How Long Does It Take?
You may find that physical therapy aide positions in PA require you to complete a physical therapy aide program in order to get the job. Those interested can typically finish the program in as little as a few weeks or up to two months.
Physical therapy aide/technician certifications are also available for physical therapist aides who want to continue their education.
Physical Therapy Aide Salaries in PA
Once you have the proper education, you can begin searching for a physical therapy job in your area. Salaries for these jobs may differ by location, education completed, and the type of setting you work in.
Depending on where you can find employment, you may be able to make one of these salaries as a physical therapy aide.
How Much Can You Make Starting Out?
Philadelphia $36,400
Williamsport $32,300
Pittsburgh $33,500
West Chester $36,200
Johnstown $31,400
Job Description
Physical therapy aides have a variety of tasks they perform under the supervision of a physical therapist.
General Responsibilities
Workers in these entry-level jobs have responsibilities such as preparing the treatment area, equipment, and materials. They can also perform different procedures while under the guidance and supervision of a physical therapist or a physical therapist assistant.
Daily Tasks
During their workday, these trained professionals prepare patients for physical therapy treatment by both emotionally comforting them as well as helping the patient into their physical therapy attire.
Other Job Duties
Physical therapy aides help treat patients by applying items like heating packs or paraffin drips and assisting patients onto exercise equipment.
Where Can They Work?
Like other jobs in the healthcare industry, physical therapy aides can find themselves working in a range of different settings. These professionals may end up working at hospitals, doctors offices, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, sports and fitness offices, and even outpatient clinics.
Career Outlook
The job outlook for a physical therapy aide is higher than in many fields. Experts predict that from 2021-2031, there will be a 24-percent growth in the need for physical therapy aides.
This will result in approximately 25,000 job openings for physical therapy aides and physical therapy assistants across the country.
Demand and Job Growth
The demand for physical therapy is like to rise because of the health needs of more Americans entering older age groups. These patients will need help with maintaining mobility and dealing with the effects of issues like obesity and diabetes.
The need for more physical therapy aides will also continue to grow because of employees leaving the work force for other fields or retiring.