Physical Therapist Assistant

Columbus, OH, has a growing need for physical therapist assistants due to expanding healthcare facilities. Candidates often face moderate competition, especially for per diem roles like those at Select Medical. Demonstrating licensure and experience can significantly improve chances in this market.

While a current state licensure is mandatory, Ohio employers, including Select Medical, highly value candidates who hold BLS certification. Completing BLS within the first 90 days of employment is often required, ensuring safety in patient care environments.

Physical therapist assistants work closely under licensed PTs, executing therapy plans, directing support personnel, and communicating patient progress. In Columbus rehab hospitals, their role is pivotal in managing care for brain injuries, neurological disorders, and orthopedic recovery.

Starting as a physical therapist assistant opens pathways toward full-time roles and further specialization. The hands-on experience in patient care, combined with continuous education, allows assistants to build expertise crucial for progressing within rehabilitation settings.

Select Medical provides a comprehensive orientation, part-time perks like 401k eligibility after 1,000 hours, and a supportive work culture. Their joint venture with Ohio Health Rehabilitation Hospital offers exposure to diverse patient cases and career advancement potential.

At Select Medical, physical therapist assistants actively implement therapy plans and supervise supportive personnel, ensuring tailored patient interventions. Their consistent communication with supervising therapists enhances treatment accuracy and accelerates patient recovery rates.

Physical therapist assistants in Columbus typically earn between $25 and $35 per hour, with per diem roles like those at Select Medical often offering competitive hourly rates reflecting experience and certification status.

Columbus's urban layout allows reasonable commute times to major healthcare centers. Most physical therapist assistants find accessible public transportation or parking options near hospitals, making per diem scheduling flexible without excessive travel burdens.

Beyond state licensure, proficiency in patient communication, BLS certification, and experience with neurological or orthopedic rehab techniques differentiate candidates. Familiarity with electronic medical records also enhances employability.