Physical Therapy Assistant

Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) are skilled technical workers who help physical therapists carry out treatments for patients who have physical impairments from disease and injury. Physical therapy assistants teach patients recovery exercises and implement treatment programs designed by a physical therapist (PT). These assistants perform many of the same functions as PTs but do not participate in evaluating clients or in designing therapy programs.

By observing an individual's progress, assistants are able to report treatment responses to the PT.

Places of Employment
Hospitals

High School/General Preparation
High School diploma required

Special Education/Training
An Associate's Degree is required

School
Mount Hood Community College
www.mhcc.cc.or.us/academics/catalog/programs/pta.htm
www.mhcc.cc.or.us

Jane Cedar
cedarj@mhcc,cc,or.us

Licensure, Certification, and Registration
A national certification examination is necessary.
Oregon Board of Physical Therapy
www.ptboard.state.or.us

Professional Organization
American Physical Therapy Association
www.apta.org

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