Job Description

PLEASE NOTE - This position may require temporarily relocation to other TONHC Facilities: Sells Hospital, Santa Rosa Health Center, San Simon Health Center, Casa Grande, and San Xavier Health Center.

Position Summary:

A seasoned Physical Therapist that will supervise the staff of the physical therapy division at the Tohono O'odham Nation Health Care facility. Assesses physical therapy programs to evaluate the quality of patient care. Provides guidance to and monitors the performance of physical therapy staff. Ensures physical therapy staff follows regulatory compliance requirements and standard procedures. May perform training demonstrations for physical therapists and assistants. May maintain a caseload of patients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (Depending on the area of assignment, an incumbent may not be required to perform some of the duties listed below):

• Provide leadership and direction to the physical therapy department, including staff supervision, scheduling, and performance management.
• Coordinate patient referrals, evaluations, and treatment plans to ensure timely and appropriate care delivery.
• Conduct assessments and develop individualized treatment programs for patients with physical disabilities, injuries, or conditions.
• Monitor patient progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and document treatment outcomes in electronic health records (EHR) systems.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, nurses, and other therapists, to coordinate patient care and optimize treatment outcomes.
• Provide clinical supervision, mentoring, and training to physical therapy staff to promote professional growth and development.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, accreditation standards, and professional guidelines governing physical therapy practice.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives, program development, and strategic planning activities to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of physical therapy services.
• Educate patients, families, and caregivers on treatment goals, techniques, and home exercise programs to support continuity of care and patient self-management.
• Stay informed about advances in physical therapy research, technology, and evidence-based practices to inform clinical decision-making and promote best practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations, and requirements.
• In-depth knowledge of physical therapy principles, techniques, and interventions for treating a variety of musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary conditions.
• Strong leadership and management skills to effectively supervise and support physical therapy staff, promote teamwork, and foster a positive work environment.
• Excellent clinical assessment and treatment planning skills to develop individualized care plans tailored to patients' needs and goals.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with patients, families, caregivers, and interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• Ability to analyze clinical data, assess patient progress, and modify treatment plans based on objective measures and patient feedback.
• Knowledge of healthcare regulations, standards of practice, and documentation requirements relevant to physical therapy services.
• Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) systems and other healthcare technology tools to document patient care and communicate with colleagues.
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development to stay updated on advances in physical therapy practice and evidence-based interventions.
• Empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity to effectively work with diverse patient populations and address their unique needs and preferences.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of clinical experience as a Physical Therapist, with at least one year of supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Master's degree or Doctorate in Physical Therapy from an accredited program.
• Current state licensure as a Physical Therapist (PT).

Special Requirements & Acknowledgment

Tohono O'odham Nation is an Indian Preference Employer. Employees are expected to know existing Tohono O'odham Nation policies and know to refer to those policies when necessary.

Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham language and English as a condition of employment.

Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background and a National FBI fingerprint check are required to determine suitability for employment, including a 39-month driving record. Position may require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years). If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.