Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) are a vital component of many successful therapy teams throughout the world. Skilled in specific areas, PTAs have can carve out a unique niche of usefulness in many settings. However, there are some disadvantages to using them on a rehabilitation team, so understanding their general strengths and weaknesses will guide you in selecting your staff or rehabilitation specialist.
Legal Responsibilities
While many aspects of the specific therapy provided is similar between a physical therapist (PT) and a PTA, there are some key differences. Only physical therapists can complete evaluations, monthly notes and discharges. PTs make the majority of the decisions about the care to be provided to you, while PTAs are legally required to follow these instructions. Because of this, PTAs tend to have less developed problem-detecting and problem-solving skills, as they must rely on the PT to direct them.
Level of Supervision
With some insurances, including Medicare Part B, a PT must see and document every patient at least once every 10 visits. The result is that a PTA cannot function totally independently and must rely, at least legally, on the direction of the PT to perform therapy. In some states, PTAs cannot even treat a patient unless a PT is on the premises with them, which further limits their independence. This can reduce the salary paid to a PTA because of the cost of the associated, required PT, which hinders the profitability of the therapy department.
Patient Interaction
Because PTAs are not consumed by the paperwork that can overshadow PTs, they are free to interact more with patients, and often have the time and patience to devote to directing a confused or behavioral patient. PTAs are usually good communicators with the staff throughout the rehabilitation facility or hospital and can be a vital source of information regarding patients.
Lower Cost
Because of the need for the involvement of a PT, PTAs are usually paid significantly less than PTs. These salaries vary throughout the country and depend largely upon the level of independence the PTA is legally allowed to demonstrate in that state. However, many facilities use only one PT with several PTAs to provide quality, one-on-one treatments at a much lower cost than using PTs alone.
