Work Environment

Physical therapist assistants provide treatments to patients of all ages and health conditions in a variety of settings, including hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics, school systems, and patients' homes. The hours and days worked vary with the practice setting. A PTA must use critical thinking and problem solving skills on a daily basis. The PTA must also possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact appropriately with patients, families, coworkers, and other healthcare providers. The job of a physical therapist assistant can be physically demanding and may involve moving, assisting, or lifting patients who are unable to move themselves.