Physical Therapist
Sitka, Alaska
Mount Edgecumbe Hospital

Job Opportunity: Rehabilitation Therapist (Physical Therapy)

Location: Sitka, Alaska
Employment Type: Contract
Contract Length: 13 weeks

Position Overview

• Provide inpatient Physical Therapy (PT) evaluations and treatments focused on improving patients' functional abilities.
• Work primarily in a 25-bed critical access hospital setting with both inpatient and outpatient populations.
• Occasional travel off-site and out of town to provide therapy services, including remote locations accessible by boat or small plane, sometimes in harsh weather conditions.
• Services may also be provided in community clinics, schools, senior centers, patients' homes, and other community settings.
• Use video conferencing for patient encounters, training, and administrative duties with off-site locations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct patient assessments, evaluations, and develop therapy treatment plans with goals.
• Implement, supervise, and modify therapy plans based on patient response to optimize outcomes.
• Collaborate with healthcare teams including providers, nurses, and rehabilitation professionals.
• Document patient encounters, diagnoses, treatment plans, and progress according to hospital policies.
• Provide patient and family education, including home exercise programs tailored to individual needs.
• Assist in administrative tasks, clinic operations, and specialty/research areas as needed.
• Maintain clinical equipment and supplies, and stay current with billing procedures (Medicare, Medicaid, third-party payers).
• Educate staff and patients on PT issues and therapeutic exercises.
• Participate in clinical education, in-services, and continuing education activities.
• Adhere to regulatory and practice standards set by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and maintain confidentiality and quality assurance standards.

Qualifications

• Education: Entry-level qualifying Master's or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited program, or Bachelor's degree from an APTA-approved program with 2 years of relevant work and continuing education experience.
• Licensure: Must have an active Alaska Physical Therapy license at the time of submission.
• Certifications: Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
• Other: Valid driver's license.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in Physical Therapy (based on education and work experience requirements).
• Prior travel experience is not explicitly required.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of musculoskeletal physiology, biomechanics, and mental cognition for administering assessments and treatments.
• Proficient in various PT treatment techniques and use of adaptive devices (splints, braces, orthoses, durable medical equipment).
• Effective communication skills for documentation, patient education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Ability to use technology including computers, tablets, and imaging devices.
• Physical ability to safely deliver treatment and assist patient mobility, including lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Sound judgment in patient care, workplace safety, and employee relations.

Work Environment & Additional Information

• Work may involve small spaces, fast pace, and interaction with diverse and sometimes challenging personalities.
• Exposure to infectious organisms possible; use of precautions and protective equipment required.
• Latex may be present in the workplace.
• Job involves physically demanding movements and positions; good body mechanics and judgment are necessary.
• Occasional multi-day travel to remote locations by boat or plane, possibly in inclement weather.
• Position is covered under the Indian Child Protection Act.

Immunization & Compliance Requirements

• Must have flu vaccinations.
• Must submit 2 fingerprint cards upon acceptance.

This position offers a dynamic and challenging environment for a skilled Physical Therapist interested in serving a diverse patient population in Alaska, including remote and community-based settings.