Full Job Description
This entry-level Field Physical Therapist role focuses on building core clinical skills in a home health setting while gaining insight into company operations. The position centers on follow-up visits rather than case management, with strong support from leadership through training, mentorship, and professional development.
This position works under the supervision of a Physical Therapist Case Manager.
Anticipated Coverage Area: Santa Cruz, CA
What You'll Do as a Health Field Physical Therapist:
• Provide hands-on therapeutic interventions including gait training, balance and neuromuscular re-education, transfer training, therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and pain management techniques, as appropriate under your license and within a home health setting.
• Assist in managing patients with assistive devices, prosthetics/orthotics, wheelchairs, and home safety equipment.
• Conduct detailed patient evaluations and assessments in the home environment.
• Implement individualized plans of care under the supervision and guidance of a Physical Therapist Case Manager.
• Provide accurate, timely documentation of patient care within 24-48 hours, consistent with plan of care and compliance standards.
• Educate patients and family/caregivers on functional mobility, exercise programs, safety techniques, and proper use of adaptive equipment.
• Collaborate closely with the Physical Therapist Case Manager to prepare for and assist in patient treatments and updates to the care plan.
• Participate in the interdisciplinary coordination of services, including identifying needs for OT, ST, HHA, MSW, and RN interventions, and report to the Physical Therapist Case Manager as appropriate.
• Effectively use equipment and supplies to provide efficient care while maintaining cost awareness.
• Maintain active participation in professional development, clinical trainings, and skill refinement opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervising Physical Therapist Case Manager.
• Stay up to date on communication for assigned patients and use relevant information to prioritize care effectively.
• Provide timely, relevant updates to the supervising PT Case Manager and participate in weekly interdisciplinary case conferences as required.
• Ensure patient privacy and dignity in both documentation and care delivery.
• Seek opportunities to enhance clinical knowledge and remain informed on best practices and home health standards.
• Meet productivity expectations as directed by your Physical Therapist Case Manager.
• Participate in initial evaluations, reassessments, and discharge planning in collaboration with the Case Manager PT.
• Participate in on-call or weekend coverage rotation, as required.
What You Bring to the Role
• Current, unrestricted California Physical Therapist (PT) License.
• Current BLS/CPR Certification.
• Valid CA Driver's License with a clean driving record.
• Graduate of an accredited Physical Therapy program.
• One (1) year of experience as a Physical Therapist preferred-new graduates and internal candidates may be considered.
• Prior home health experience is highly desirable.
• Experience treating high acuity patients is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team (RN, OT, ST, MSW, HHA).
• Familiarity with case management principles is preferred.
• Strong clinical judgment, excellent verbal/written communication, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable with electronic documentation and mobile healthcare tools.
• Ability to self-direct, manage time independently, and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced setting.
• Commitment to annual compliance training and continuing education requirements.
$130,000 - $160,000 a year
Estimated Wage Range for Home Health Field Physical Therapist (PT): $130,000 - $160,000. Starting pay is based on relevant experience above the minimum requirements. Compensation for this position follows a pay-per-visit model, with the wage provided as an estimate. 21st Century offers comprehensive health benefits and a 401k plan with up to a 4% match.