In the world of physical therapy, PTs are treating more patients with unique and highly specific needs, creating a demand for therapists specialized in certain areas. The reason for the shift in patient groups has to do with more than Baby Boomers reaching retirement age, living longer and becoming more active. Changes in population aresbringing a much higher volume of patients into the fold; these include patients who emigrated to the U.S., as well as those who may have needed physical therapy in the past, and are finally able to access it. Physical therapists are well advised to continue education and training throughout their careers. Click the link to read more about the Top 8 physical therapy certifications!
Physical therapists are now seeing more patients with heart disease and pulmonary issues; in spite of this, patient recovery periods are getting faster. These are some of the reasons cited for the change:
Providing physical therapy to patients at the earliest date possible creates better long-term clinical outcomes. Once a patient is receiving out-patient care, new challenges come to light, like pain management. PTs with experience using Manual Therapy Techniques (MTT) for the following illnesses are in high demand:
To make a long story short, one urban city may have an average of 350 licensed physical therapists, with a need for 50 more than that to meet the needs of patients in that community. With this in mind, recent graduates from accredited physical therapy schools will want to pursue specialized training in fields of therapy that are popular among growing patient groups. An experienced staffing agency can help in the placement of allied healthcare professionals, destined to fill these therapy jobs—part of the 20 fastest growing occupations! Call 1-800-617-0608 or apply online, where consultants are standing by to help review your training and licensing and ensure it’s up to date. There is a predicted shortage of 41,000 physical therapists by 2020 and you need to be ready!