How to become a Physical Therapist Assistant?
If you are dreaming of becoming a physical therapist assistant, then this blog is for you. A lot of people want to become a physical therapist assistant, but they are not sure how to. PTA, otherwise known as a physical therapist assistant, help patients to improve their mobility and have a better life. For those who are interested in this career, this blog will help you understand how to become one.
The job outlook for a PTA
Before becoming a physical therapist assistant, you should first look at the job look of this career. Once you know that the job outlook for this career is positive, you can then begin your search with how to become one.
The good news for everyone interested in becoming a physical therapist assistant is that this career is considered to be one of the fastest-growing occupations. As per the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, PTA demand will grow by 27% by the end of 2028.
The aging society is growing day by day, which means there is already a requirement for PTAs. It has also been speculated that physical therapists will be heavily relying on PTAs very soon.
What is the role of a physical therapist assistant?
PTAs are those who work with patients who need care when it comes to mobility. They help such patients perform everyday tasks as a normal person does. PTAs will be responsible for keeping an eye on the patient while they are under their care. They will analyze how a patient was doing when they came to their care and how they are doing after the therapies.
How to become one?
To become a PTA, the first thing that needs to be done is getting an associate degree. You must fulfill all the required criteria first before applying for a job. There is PTA training available, which can be completed in 18 months, but getting a degree will open more doors for you.
Once you have the right degree with you, the next thing that you will have to do is give the license exam. Please note that this is mandatory. Without a license, you won’t be able to become a PT. Clearing the license exam will make you a licensed PTA.
Make sure that you prepare well for the license exam because it is tough. You are allowed to attempt the exam three times a year.
Based on your skills, start looking for PTA jobs that you will be interested in doing and will offer you good pay.
It would be better if you work on a few skills, such as scheduling, therapy, patient and family education, home health, and patient care.
Now comes the main part, and that is working on your resume and interview. Your resume needs to have all the details about you and why you are qualified to be a PTA, which means you need to add all the details that will give confidence to your employer before hiring you.
Also, brush up on your interview skills. Be prepared for all kinds of questions, and be honest with your answer.
Don’t show any fake certificates because every organization, be it a clinic or hospital, will do a background check.
Wrapping Up
Now that you are ready join a PTA staffing agency that will fulfill your dream of becoming a physical therapist assistant. A staffing agency will help you get placed fast and smoothly. Make sure that you go with a reliable PTA staffing agency only who is here in the industry for a long time and will be there throughout your hiring process.
