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Alabama Department of Labor

Labor Market Information Division
SOC: 31-2022 Physical Therapist Aides
Under close supervision of a physical therapist or physical therapy assistant, perform only delegated, selected, or routine tasks in specific situations. These duties include preparing the patient and the treatment area.
Default
Education: These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
OJT: Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Tasks: Clean and organize work area and disinfect equipment after treatment. Instruct, motivate, safeguard, or assist patients practicing exercises or functional activities, under direction of medical staff. Record treatment given and equipment used. Administer active or passive manual therapeutic exercises, therapeutic massage, or heat, light, sound, water, or electrical modality treatments, such as ultrasound. Transport patients to and from treatment areas, using wheelchairs or providing standing support. Change linens, such as bed sheets and pillow cases. Secure patients into or onto therapy equipment. Schedule patient appointments with physical therapists and coordinate therapists' schedules. Observe patients during treatment to compile and evaluate data on patients' responses and progress and report to physical therapist. Confer with physical therapy staff or others to discuss and evaluate patient information for planning, modifying, or coordinating treatment. Arrange treatment supplies to keep them in order. Perform clerical duties, such as taking inventory, ordering supplies, answering telephone, taking messages, or filling out forms. Maintain equipment or furniture to keep it in good working condition, including performing the assembly or disassembly of equipment or accessories. Assist patients to dress, undress, or put on and remove supportive devices, such as braces, splints, or slings.
License: License not required.
Outlook: Excellent
Alabama Employment Outlook
Alabama Wage Data
Hourly Wage   Annual Wage
Entry $9.43   Entry $19,618.00
Mean $11.78   Mean $24,510.00
Experience $12.96 Experience $26,955.00

The data is based on the May 2017 Occupation Employment Survey employment and wage estimate file. The wages have been aged using the most current ECI factors reflecting wages as of June 2018.

Alabama Projections
Estimated Employment 2016Projected Employment 2026Annual Average OpeningsAnnual Growth Rate
590740952.29
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Occupational Videos
31-2022.00 Physical Therapist Aides