Air Force AFSC · Medical
42BX Physical Therapist
Overview
A Physical Therapist identifies motor function problems caused by illness or injury and develops and implements patient care plans. They work with patients to restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and support a return to healthy, active lifestyles.
Core Skills
- clinical assessment and treatment planning
- rehabilitation program design and progression
- electronic health record documentation
- outcomes measurement and data tracking
- patient education and coaching
- interdisciplinary team collaboration
- ergonomic and functional assessments
- program evaluation and quality improvement
- time management and caseload prioritization
- research literacy and evidence-based practice
Civilian Software & Tools
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- MEDITECH software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
- Advantage Software Physical Therapy Advantage
- Biometrics video game software
Civilian Career Paths
- Rehabilitation
- Public Health
Training & Development
Getting Started
- State Physical Therapy Licensure
- BLS
Also Common
- American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS) Certification
What the Work Involves
- Plan, prepare, or carry out individually designed programs of physical treatment to maintain, improve, or restore physical functioning, alleviate pain, or prevent physical dysfunction in patients.
- Perform and document an initial exam, evaluating data to identify problems and determine a diagnosis prior to intervention.
- Record prognosis, treatment, response, and progress in patient's chart or enter information into computer.
- Evaluate effects of treatment at various stages and adjust treatments to achieve maximum benefit.
- Instruct patient and family in treatment procedures to be continued at home.
Related Occupations
- Physical Therapist Assistants
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians
- Occupational Therapists
- Physical Therapist Aides
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: graduate-level education or extensive experience.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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