Physical Therapist Providing At-Home Services

How I Got The Job

My Education: BS, UVM

My Prior Experience: I worked in a hospital, then in several rehab centers, then in home health which I love and have done now for 8 years

My Job Profile

My Company: My company provides healthcare employees for companies that are short-handed

Job/Career Overview: I go into the homes of people who have been injured or in the hospital, evaluate their muscle strength, their ability to move around in bed, to get in and out of bed, on and off the toilet in and out of chairs, cars, on and off sofas, etc., their ability to walk safely, stand safely to dress themselves, shower, brush teeth, etc.

If they have trouble in any of these areas, I give them exercises to get stronger and teach them and their families safe ways for them to function in their homes. This usually includes giving them a written exercise program that they should do on their own every day and teaching family members or paid helpers how to transfer them safely until they can do it alone.

Sometimes the patient needs to learn to wheel themselves in a wheelchair or use a cane or a walker properly. There are many kinds of equipment available to help people be safe and independent in their homes and, if necessary, I help them obtain and properly use that equipment. The main goal in my job is to get people to the point that they are able to take care of themselves safely and independently in their own homes, and often, able to drive again and function safely and independently out in the community.

More Insights: The most important thing is that you are the type of person who genuinely cares about others. Patients can feel that and it makes a big difference in how well they respond to you.