Travel Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs: Salary, Benefits & Career Guide

Types of Travel Physical Therapy Assistant Jobs

Travel physical therapy assistant jobs offer different settings and patient care opportunities so each assignment is new and exciting. Here are some common travel PTA jobs:

• Acute Care: In acute care settings, travel PTAs work in hospitals, immediate care for patients with severe health conditions or injuries. Busy environment.
• Rehabilitation: Travel PTAs in rehabilitation centers help patients recover from surgeries, injuries or illnesses. They help patients with exercises and therapies to get back to physical function and mobility.
• Skilled Nursing Facilities: In skilled nursing facilities, travel PTAs provide ongoing medical care to patients who need long term care. Often works with elderly patients or patients with chronic conditions.
• Outpatient Clinics: In outpatient clinics, travel PTAs see patients who don’t require hospitalization but need physical therapy to recover from injuries or manage chronic pain. This is more regular hours and varied patient interactions.
• Home Healthcare: Travel PTAs in home healthcare visit patients in their homes, one on one care in a home setting. This requires good communication skills and ability to work independently. Patient satisfaction is key in this setting.
• Pediatrics: Specializing in pediatrics, travel PTAs work with children to help them develop and maintain physical function. This requires creativity and patience to work with young patients in their therapy.
• Geriatrics: In geriatric care, travel PTAs help older adults maintain their physical function and independence. This often involves age related conditions and healthy active lifestyle.

Travel Physical Therapy Assistant Salary

Travel physical therapy assistant jobs pay more than stationary jobs. A traveling physical therapy assistant can make $1,443/wk, $28-$30.50/hr – and that’s on top of the other benefits that come with travel assignments. The industry pays well for travel PTAs, it’s a demand and specialized skill.

These salaries are below the national average for therapy jobs which is around $2,088/wk but the demand for PTAs is increasing so steady job opportunities in this field. More demand for PTAs means more job openings and potentially more pay as the market grows.

Geography plays a big role in salary differences. Texas is the best state for travel PTAs because of high demand and high pay. North Carolina is another state that’s good for PTAs with good pay packages so it’s another popular destination for those looking for jobs in this field.

In California where cost of living is high – especially in cities like San Francisco and LA – pay is adjusted to reflect those local economic conditions. So pay is higher to reflect the different work options and higher cost of living in the state.

Benefits of Being a Traveling PTA

Being a traveling physical therapy assistant has many benefits beyond the pay. Assignments for PTAs are 6 weeks to 6 months long so they can gain different experiences and become proficient in different patient needs in different medical settings. This variety can add to their resume and skillset.

As travel PTAs move from one region to another and work with different teams of healthcare professionals they can build a large network in the profession. These connections can lead to job offers and future partnerships in their field. To support these mobile professionals employers often provide housing allowances to help offset the cost of frequent moves.

Continuing education opportunities are often provided, so PTAs can stay current with industry advancements. This also contributes to their professional development.

There’s more to this role. Many companies offer full benefit packages from day one which includes health coverage and dental and life insurance plans – on top of the salary. These benefits give PTAs security and freedom to focus on their job and enjoy the travel lifestyle without financial or personal worries.

Top Locations for Travel PTA Assignments

When looking for travel PTA jobs location is everything. Some states and cities have higher pay and more job openings so they are popular for travel physical therapist assistants. Michigan is the top with an average weekly pay for travel PTAs at $1,931. California is close second with an average weekly pay of $1,661.

VitalHire pays high. They pay around $2,065/wk so they are a good option for PTAs looking for high paying jobs. Fall River in Massachusetts is one of the cities with higher pay at $2,159/wk.

Besides the monetary benefits some regions offer, there are lifestyle benefits too. California is popular because of the good weather and city attractions in San Diego and LA and several national parks. Texas offers a mix of culture and leisure through the urban experiences in Houston, Dallas or Austin.

Washington state is a nature lover’s paradise with its beautiful landscapes and city living, especially in Seattle. New York offers rustic charm against urban life during fall when the foliage is amazing. All these reasons why major cities like New York NY, Federal Way WA are top locations with many job openings for travel physical therapist assistants.

Certifications and Skills Required

To be a successful travel physical therapy assistant you need to have certain certifications and skills. PTAs need to get Basic Life Support (BLS) and CPR certifications which is required for patient safety during emergency situations. These certifications are the foundation of hiring requirements across all healthcare facilities.

As a PTA physical endurance and strength is a must since they support patients through exercises and daily living activities. This part of the job requires PTAs to be in top physical shape to be able to do it. Good communication skills are needed for speaking with patients and documenting their progress. These skills are crucial for patient outcomes.

Attention to detail is key. It allows PTAs to assess patient needs and keep accurate treatment records. Empathy and understanding is also important when dealing with patients in pain or emotional distress.

Knowledge of human anatomy helps therapy assistants to address the physical challenges of those under their care. Proficiency in exercise protocols helps a PTA to facilitate patient recovery. With these skills and credentials travel physical therapy assistants can be the best in their field.

Find Travel PTA Jobs

Finding the perfect travel physical therapy assistant (PTA) job can be tough but using the right strategies can make it easier. Building a relationship with a recruiter can be very helpful. They get early access to PTA travel job openings before they are posted on the bigger job boards. Having that inside track can get you the assignments you want fast.

Job boards is another way to go – they aggregate postings from different agencies and have customization options like filters for your specialty and location. Setting up alerts on these sites means you’ll be notified when new jobs are posted that fit your interests so you’ll be up to date on the latest job openings as if you own or manage the site.

Social media is another way to find job leads – it requires filtering to extract the good ones from the noise. Building relationships within your professional network can also yield recommendations and roles that are not posted elsewhere. Using these methods will widen your search and increase your chances of getting the perfect assignment as a travel therapy assistant.

Various Facilities

As a travel physical therapy assistant (PTA) you get to work in different healthcare facilities. This includes working in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, outpatient clinics and schools. Each location has its own challenges and opportunities for growth that will make a PTA more professional. Ensuring high levels of patient satisfaction is also a key aspect of working in these diverse settings.

In educational settings like schools PTAs work with children with disabilities or special needs. They help these young individuals through rehab and daily activities which requires patience and creative problem solving to tailor therapeutic activities to each student’s needs.

Travel PTAs work in long term acute care facilities where they work with patients with complex medical conditions for a long period of time. They get to build relationships with patients and see significant gains in their motor functions over time.

Treatment Plans

Creating treatment plans is part of the job of a physical therapist assistant (PTA). To create these individualized interventions PTAs assess various factors such as patient’s movement abilities, strength levels, balance and pain. These assessments are key to make sure each treatment plan addresses the patient’s needs. Treatment plans are crucial for patient outcomes.

Therapists use SMART criteria to set goals for patients’ recovery which helps to focus on areas like reducing pain, improving functional mobility and overall well being. These specific goals are markers for progress and opportunities to make changes to the treatment plan as it unfolds. PTAs use specific exercise protocols to help patients regain strength and mobility.

In the beginning therapy is more general but gets more specific through feedback from patients over multiple therapy sessions. This process allows PTAs to adjust their approach so every patient gets the best out of their individualized care.

Career Path for Physical Therapy Assistants

Physical Therapy Assistants can have a rewarding and challenging career path, with opportunities for growth and advancement. Here are some career progression steps for PTAs:

1. Entry-Level PTA: New graduates can start as entry-level PTAs, working under the supervision of experienced physical therapists.
2. Senior PTA: With experience and additional education, PTAs can move up to senior roles, taking on more responsibilities and mentoring junior staff.
3. Specialized PTA: PTAs can specialize in a specific area, such as pediatrics, geriatrics or sports physical therapy and work in a specialized setting.
4. Lead PTA: Experienced PTAs can be in leadership roles, managing teams of PTAs and department operations.
5. Physical Therapist: With more education and licensure, PTAs can become physical therapists, taking on more autonomous roles.
6. Education and Research: PTAs can also be in education, teaching and mentoring students or in research, developing new treatments and therapies.

There are many professional development opportunities for PTAs so they can continue to grow and advance in their careers.

Job Outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants

The job outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants is good according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 32% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030, much faster than average for all occupations. This growth is due to an aging population, increased focus on preventive care and the need for healthcare professionals to provide high quality and cost effective services.

Reasons for good job outlook for PTAs:

• Aging Population: More physical therapy services will be needed.
• Preventive Care: Preventive care and wellness programs will require PTAs to educate and intervene.
• Healthcare Reform: Changes in healthcare policy and reimbursement models will require healthcare professionals to be efficient, PTAs will be in demand.
• Technology: Technology advancements like telehealth and electronic medical records will require PTAs to adapt and develop new skills.

Overall the job outlook for Physical Therapy Assistants is good, career advancement and growth in a cool field.

Tips for Success as a Travel Physical Therapy Assistant

To be successful as a travel PTA:

• Be Flexible: Flexibility is key in travel PTA jobs, assignments can vary in location and schedule. Be adaptable and you’ll do great in different environments and with diverse patient needs.
• Develop Good Communication Skills: Communication with patients, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders is key. Clear and compassionate communication means better patient outcomes and smoother collaboration with colleagues.
• Stay Organized: Managing multiple patients and tasks at once requires strong organizational skills. Keep records detailed and on top of your schedule to provide consistent quality care.
• Keep Learning: Stay current with the latest in physical therapy. Continuously pursue CE opportunities to grow your skills and stay relevant.
• Build Your Network: Networking with colleagues and mentors can be a great resource and open doors to new opportunities. Building relationships in the industry can lead to job offers and career advancement.
• Patient Satisfaction: Patients happy with their care means better outcomes and positive reviews which means better reputation and job opportunities.

CE for Physical Therapy Assistants

Continuing education is a must for physical therapy assistants. Here’s how:

• Conferences and Workshops: Attend conferences and workshops to learn from the experts and stay current with what’s new in physical therapy. These events also offer networking opportunities with others.
• Online Courses: Online courses offer flexibility and convenience so you can learn new skills and techniques at your own pace. Many reputable institutions offer courses for physical therapy assistants.
• Join Professional Associations: Join professional associations like the APTA to stay connected with colleagues and get access to resources and updates.
• Mentorship Programs: Participate in mentorship programs to learn from experienced physical therapy assistants. Mentors can guide you, share their knowledge and help you navigate your career.
• Specialized Certifications: Get specialized certifications like BLS to show your expertise in specific areas and add to your credentials. These certifications will make you more marketable and open up new doors.

By doing so physical therapy assistants can continue to grow and provide great care to their patients.

Specialties for Physical Therapy Assistants

Physical therapy assistants can specialize in many areas so they can focus on specific patient populations and conditions. These specializations can grow their skills, open up new career opportunities and make a big difference in patients’ lives.

1. Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Specializing in orthopedic physical therapy means working with patients who have musculoskeletal injuries or surgeries. PTAs in this area help patients regain strength, mobility and function through targeted exercises and interventions. Great for those interested in sports injuries, joint replacements and other orthopedic conditions.
2. Pediatric Physical Therapy: Pediatric physical therapy assistants work with children to improve their physical function and mobility. This requires creativity and patience as PTAs develop fun and effective treatment plans for little patients. Working in schools, hospitals and outpatient clinics, pediatric PTAs are the key to helping children reach their developmental milestones.
3. Neurological Physical Therapy: PTAs in neurological physical therapy work with patients who have conditions like stroke, spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis. These professionals focus on improving patients’ physical function, mobility and quality of life through specialized exercises and interventions. This area requires knowledge of the nervous system and how it affects physical function.
4. Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Physical Therapy: This area involves working with patients who have heart and lung conditions. PTAs in this area work with patients to improve their cardiovascular and respiratory function through targeted exercises and breathing techniques. For patients who have had heart attacks, surgeries or chronic respiratory conditions.
5. Geriatric Physical Therapy: Geriatric physical therapy assistants work with older adults to improve their physical function and mobility. This area is about preventing falls, managing age related conditions and promoting an active lifestyle. PTAs in this area are the key to helping older adults maintain their independence and quality of life.
6. Sports Physical Therapy: Specializing in sports physical therapy means working with athletes to prevent and treat injuries related to sports and physical activity. PTAs in this area develop and implement rehab programs to get athletes back to play quickly and safely. For those who love sports and fitness.
7. Wound Care Physical Therapy: PTAs in wound care work with patients who have wounds or burns. They focus on physical function, mobility and wound healing through specialized interventions and exercises. This area requires knowledge of wound care techniques and ability to care for patients who are recovering.

Physical Therapy Assistant Professional Associations

Joining professional associations can provide physical therapy assistants with resources, networking and support throughout their career. Here are some key associations PTAs should consider:

1. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA): The APTA is the main professional organization for physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in the US. Membership gives access to CEUs, industry news and networking with other healthcare professionals.
2. National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE): Administered by the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy, the NPTE is the certification exam for physical therapy assistants. Passing this exam is a requirement to become a licensed PTA and to ensure high standards of practice.
3. American Physical Therapy Association of Physical Therapy Assistants (APTA-PTA): A component of the APTA, the APTA-PTA is the professional organization for physical therapy assistants. This association provides resources, advocacy and professional development opportunities for PTAs.
4. National Association of Physical Therapy Assistants (NAPTA): The NAPTA is the professional organization for physical therapy assistants in the US. Membership gives access to educational resources, networking events and advocacy for the PTA profession.
5. PTA Section of the APTA: This section of the APTA is for supporting and advocating for physical therapy assistants. It provides resources, CEUs and a platform for PTAs to connect and share.
6. State Physical Therapy Associations: Many states have their own physical therapy associations which often have sections or components for physical therapy assistants. These associations provide local networking, state specific resources and advocacy.
7. Specialized Physical Therapy Associations: There are also specialized associations like the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation that may have sections or components for physical therapy assistants. These associations provide resources and support for PTAs working in specialized areas.

By joining these associations PTAs can connect with others, get resources and advance in their career.

Before You Go

Before you start your next assignment you need to prepare and plan. Make a packing list for the weather and location of your next assignment. This should include work and personal items, considering the assignment requirements and destination.

Finding temporary housing can be made easier with travel staffing agencies that have agreements with local housing services. But searching on your own can yield better financial gains. So do both.

Knowing the area before you start your job will make the transition easier and faster to get acclimated to the new environment. Researching nearby amenities, public transportation and leisure activities related to your interests will make your stay more enjoyable and help you get settled in faster in this new place.

Tax Benefits for PTAs

1. Tax-Free Housing Stipend: Many PTA jobs offer a tax-free housing stipend. This helps offset living expenses while on assignment so you can manage your finances better.
2. Meal Allowance: Some PTA positions offer a meal allowance which can also be tax-free. This allowance helps cover food expenses while you’re on the road so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
3. Travel Reimbursement: PTAs may be reimbursed for travel expenses like gas, tolls and parking. These are often tax-free so it’s more affordable to travel between assignments.
4. Per Diem Allowance: A per diem allowance is another tax-free benefit that can help cover daily living expenses while on assignment. This can be used for meals and miscellaneous expenses.
5. Tax Deductions: As a travel PTA you may be able to deduct certain work-related expenses on your tax return. These can include uniforms, equipment and continuing education courses so you can reduce your taxable income.
6. Tax Credits: PTAs may be eligible for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). These can help lower your tax liability so you get more money back.
7. Talk to a Tax Pro: To make sure you’re getting all the tax benefits you can, talk to a tax pro. They can give you personalized advice and help you navigate the tax laws.

By knowing and using these tax benefits travel PTAs can make more money and have a more lucrative career.

PTA Interview Tips

Interviewing for a PTA job can be intimidating but with the right approach you can kill it. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Research the Facility: Before your interview research the facility and the physical therapy department. Knowing their mission, values and goals will help you to tailor your answers and show you’re a good fit for their team.
2. Job Description: Read the job description and requirements so you understand the skills and qualifications needed for the job. This will help you to highlight your experience and show you’re a good fit for the position.
3. Bring Your Resume: Make sure your resume is current and highlights your experience and skills as a PTA. Bring any certifications like BLS and any specialized training you’ve had.
4. Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions like “Why do you want to work as a PTA?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” so you’ll feel more comfortable and prepared during the actual interview.
5. Ask Questions: Bring a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Asking about the typical PTA caseload or opportunities for professional development shows you’re interested in the job and committed to your career.
6. Show Your Interest: During the interview show your interest in the job and the facility. Highlight your passion for being a PTA and your commitment to patient care.
7. Follow Up: After the interview send a follow up email to thank the interviewer for their time and to reiterate your interest in the job. This little touch will leave a good impression and keep you top of mind.

By following these tips you’ll be ready to rock and get your next PTA job.

Conclusion

Being a travel PTA is a win-win of professional growth, competitive pay and personal fulfillment. Working in different settings, getting paid well and expanding your network is a good combo.

To be a PTA you need to get the right certifications and develop skills like CPR/BLS certification, physical fitness to handle patients during therapy sessions, strong communication skills to interact with colleagues and patients – a key when rendering patient care. Knowing how to navigate job opportunities through different channels like recruitment agencies, job platforms online or even your network can make a big difference in getting jobs.

Get ready to deliver great treatment plans for your patients. Join the fun and the benefits of being a travel PTA and see what’s out there.

FAQs

How long are travel PTA assignments?

Travel PTA assignments are 2-3 months some can be up to 6 months. This allows for meaningful contributions and flexibility for patient needs.

What certifications do I need to be a travel PTA?

To be a travel PTA you need to get certified in CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) as these are usually required for employment to ensure patient safety.

How do I find travel PTA jobs?

To get jobs as a travel PTA you need to build a relationship with a recruiter and use job boards by setting up alerts for new postings.

Use social media and network within your professional community to get ahead in your job search.

Where are the highest paying travel PTA jobs?

Michigan has the highest average weekly salary for travel PTAs at $1,931, followed by California at $1,661.

Fall River, Massachusetts and VitalHire are paying well.

What’s in it for me?

As a travel PTA you’ll get to work in different settings and expand your network. You’ll get housing allowance and full benefits package including health and dental insurance.

Ready to see what’s out there as a travel PTA? Top pay, great benefits and great locations with TLC Nursing. Apply Now!