Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA)

Position Overview

The Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) plays an essential role in delivering patient-centered care within a collaborative environment at Group Health Centre (GHC). Working under the direct supervision of Registered Physiotherapists (PT), the PTA supports a variety of clinical tasks, including implementing treatment plans, guiding therapeutic exercises, leading ergonomic assessments, assisting patients with mobility training, and monitoring progress throughout the rehabilitation process. The PTA is expected to foster a positive and supportive patient experience through professionalism, empathy, and a strong dedication to patient outcomes. This position requires excellent organizational skills, the ability to thrive in a fast-paced clinical setting, and a commitment to delivering high-quality care with kindness, respect, compassion, and accountability. 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Patient Care & Assessment

• Assist with patient intake and preparation for assessment as directed by the PT.
• Observe and monitor patients during treatment sessions, noting signs of discomfort, fatigue, or improvement.
• Report relevant patient feedback and physical responses to the supervising PT in a timely manner.
• Encourage patient engagement and effort throughout treatment activities to support therapeutic outcomes.

Clinical Procedures

• Deliver assigned physiotherapy interventions, such as therapeutic exercises, range-of-motion routines, ambulation training, and use of modalities (e.g., heat, ice, TENS), as delegated by the PT.
• Guide patients in proper technique during exercises and monitor for safe body mechanics.
• Support patients in using mobility aids (e.g., walkers, canes) as part of their treatment plan.
• Modify the environment or activity setup to ensure accessibility and safety based on individual patient needs.
• Lead the implementation of ergonomic recommendations educating staff/clients on proper posture, lifting techniques, workstation setup, etc.

Clinical Documentation, Record Keeping & Patient Communication

• Accurately document treatment sessions in Electronic Medical Record (EMR), including exercises completed, patient responses, and any incidents, in accordance with the facility’s policies and the PT's delegation.
• Ensure all documentation supports continuity of care and complies with the standards set by the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
• Maintain confidentiality of clinical notes and adhere to the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) regulations.
• Reinforce the physiotherapist’s instructions regarding home exercise programs and proper use of mobility aids.
• Communicate clearly and empathetically with patients and caregivers to ensure understanding and adherence to treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate logs of appointments, patient attendance, and any changes to scheduled care.
• Provide updates to the PT and care team regarding patient-reported concerns or barriers to progress.

Administrative Support

• Support scheduling and coordination of physiotherapy sessions when needed, including managing follow-ups and cancellations.
• Assist in maintaining inventory and ordering of therapy supplies and equipment.
• Participate in administrative tasks such as filing, data entry, or maintaining clinic organization, within scope.
• Uphold privacy and confidentiality protocols when handling patient information or records.

Infection Control & Safety

• Sanitize equipment, treatment surfaces, and tools between patient uses according to Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) guidelines.
• Identify and address safety hazards in the therapy environment (e.g., loose equipment, spills, accessibility issues).
• Ensure proper storage and handling of physiotherapy supplies, including PPE and cleaning agents.
• Monitor patient safety during therapy sessions, particularly with balance or mobility-challenged individuals.

Collaboration & Team Support

• Work closely with the supervising PT to ensure delegated tasks are performed accurately and within scope.
• Communicate observations and patient updates effectively to PTs and other healthcare professionals involved in the care plan.
• Participate in staff training sessions and ongoing professional development initiatives.

Required Qualifications

Education

Graduate of a two-year community college Physiotherapist Assistant (PTA) program or equivalent qualifications as recognized by the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario

Preferred Qualifications

Licensure, and/or Certification

CPR and First Aid Certification

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities  

• Foundational knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology related to therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation.
• Understanding of physiotherapy treatment modalities and interventions, including mobility training, strengthening, and range-of-motion techniques.
• Familiarity with ergonomic principles and workplace safety standards.
• Knowledge of IPAC practices, particularly in clinical and rehabilitation settings.
• Understanding of documentation standards and privacy legislation, including the PHIPA.
• Awareness of the scope of practice and delegation requirements under the supervision of a Registered Physiotherapist, as defined by the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records (Epic or similar software) is an asset.
• Proficient in delivering physiotherapy interventions such as exercises, mobility training, and use of assistive devices in accordance with a physiotherapist's plan of care.
• Skilled in educating patients on home exercise programs, posture, and ergonomic strategies.
• Competent in using rehabilitation tools, mobility aids, and ergonomic assessment equipment.
• Accurate, timely, and professional charting in electronic medical records (EMR), including patient observations and treatment outcomes.
• Ability to identify patient barriers or difficulties during treatment and communicate appropriately with supervising clinicians.
• Ability to communicate clearly and empathetically with patients, caregivers, and inter-professional team members.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks effectively while maintaining a high standard of accuracy and patient care.
• Excellent critical thinking and decision-making skills.
• Ability to collaborate well within a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to consistently demonstrate GHC's values of respect, kindness, compassion, and accountability in all aspects of work.

Compensation:

$27.24 – $28.34 (commensurate with experience)
Comprehensive Benefit Package
Enrolment in Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)

Union:

CUPE

Positions:

1

Operations:

Monday to Friday – Business Hours
Weekends & Holidays Off

Selection Process:

Please apply through our ADP Career Centre by April 23, 2025.

Interested applicants are asked to submit a cover letter and resume indicating their qualifications for the position by the application deadline.  Those selected for interviews will be required to demonstrate their qualifications and required skills and abilities as outlined above. Group Health Centre is committed to an application and interview process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier free. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code/AODA. Applicants need to make any accommodation requests for the application or interview process known in advance by contacting the Human Resources Department at 705-759-5513. We thank all applicants, however only those under consideration will be contacted.