City and County of San Francisco

Under supervision, and as prescribed by referring physicians, administers tests and treatments to patients by using physical agents, such as light, heat, water, electricity, massage and therapeutic exercises; and performs related duties as required.

This is the journey level classification in the physical therapist series. Employees utilize physical modalities in order to relieve pain, develop or restore function, prevent disability and maintain patients' maximum performance. Although the basic duties and responsibilities of all physical therapists are similar, the emphasis of the treatment program may differ according to the nature of the patients' disabilities, disorders or injuries. Positions are distinguished from the next higher level of Senior Physical Therapist in that the latter direct therapists in administering treatments and function as program administrators.

None.

According to Civil Service Commission Rule 109, the duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this job code/class and are not intended to be an inclusive list.

1. Administers physical therapy treatments to patients by using physical means such as light, heat, water and electricity, massage and exercises, including gait training; utilizes standardized and specialized equipment in order to develop the patient's maximum performance.

2. Evaluates condition of the individual patients and plans and implements an appropriate treatment program accordingly.

3. Explains treatment objectives and methods to patients and their families, including instructing them in the use of prosthetic and orthotic devices and other special equipment and in procedures to be continued at home.
4. Instructs students-in-training and auxiliary personnel in elementary physical therapy procedures and techniques; coordinates patient rehabilitation with physicians, nurses, teachers, occupational therapists and personnel in other departments.

5. Evaluates and records treatments given and patient's response and progress; reports patient's progress to physician.

Requires good working knowledge of: current physical therapy treatment methods, including exercises, manual muscle testing, range of motion, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy and sterile technique; indications and contraindications for treatment; pathology, anatomy and kinesiology; various types of walkers, canes and crutches. Knowledge of child growth and development is desirable in specified positions requiring work with children.

Requires ability to: evaluate the condition of the individual patient and plan and implement an appropriate treatment plan accordingly; communicate orally and in writing; plan appropriate use of time. Ability to work with children is desirable in specified positions requiring work with children.

These minimum qualifications establish the education, training, experience, special skills and/or license(s) which are required for employment in the classification.  Please note, additional qualifications (i.e., special conditions) may apply to a particular position and will be stated on the exam/job announcement.

Education:

Experience:

License and Certification:
Requires registration as a Physical Therapist licensed by the Physical Therapy Board of California; OR

Possession of an acceptance letter from the Physical Therapy Board of California (PTB) for the next licensing examination.

Amended: 4/20/1981; 6/22/2015

All City and County of San Francisco employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.