Purpose

The Pediatric Physical Therapist treats and examines children from birth to age 18 who have problems moving and performing other physical activities. The Pediatric Physical Therapist helps treat problems like injuries, pre-existing conditions and problems caused by illnesses or diseases.

Reporting to the Therapy Services Coordinator, the Pediatric Physical Therapist will specialize in treating and caring for patients who are toddlers, babies, children, teenagers and young adults. Issues that are sensitive in nature or need further clarification or instructions are referred to the CEO.

Responsibilities and Activities

• Ensure service delivery is modelled with a family centered approach and remains in alignment with vision and values of In Sync Therapy; 
• Treat conditions related to genetic, neurological and orthopedic disorders;
• Utilize techniques like functional training and exercise alongside medication and diet changes;
• Employ specialized medical equipment which is designed to help treat and alleviate pain from conditions that hinder mobility;
• Design, fit and use assistive technology, orthotics and prosthetics;
• Develop a treatment plan for clients, laying out the types of activities and specific goals to be accomplished;
• Treat patients using an extensive set of skills and techniques which include: manual manipulation and other physical therapy techniques; breathing training and motor learning; developmental, recreational and play "therapy";
• Adapt the daily care activities to a child's special needs;
• Educate a child’s family about how to accommodate and care for the child;
• As required, participate in department or program improvements and initiatives, and attend educational workshops or developmental training related to the profession and/or client needs;
• Assess and record client’s activities and progress for client evaluations, and make recommendations for accessing additional therapy supports from other In Sync Therapy team members or to physicians and other healthcare providers as needed;
• Establish workload priorities in collaboration with others in order to ensuring optimal service delivery;
• Work in accordance with the standards of professional practice and code of ethics as outlined by the Physiotherapy Alberta College and Association.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor or Master’s Degree from an accredited Physiotherapy Program;
• 3 to 5 years’ experience, including one year in pediatric rehabilitation including evaluation, treatment, case management, and program development;
• Current registration with the Physiotherapy Alberta College and Association;
• Membership in the Canadian Physiotherapy Association preferred;
• Previous experience with a focus on working with children and youth
• Provide clearance of a Police Criminal Record Check;
• Hold current First Aid/CPR status;
• Hold a valid driver’s license and have access to a personal vehicle.

Knowledge

• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of Pediatric Physical Therapy theory and practice;
• Strong knowledge of other health care disciplines and their role in client care;
• Strong knowledge of Speech Language, Occupational, Physical and Psychology therapy terminology and proficiency in implementing them;
• Experienced in working on a multidisciplinary team to effectively treat and understand the needs of the client;
• Strong knowledge and experience in Musculoskeletal/Rheumatology;
• Knowledge and understanding of pediatric conditions including neurological conditions;
• Knowledge and understanding of complex pain in children and adolescents;
• Knowledge of patient and family centered care practice models;
• Knowledge of tertiary rehabilitation service delivery;
• Knowledge of community resources;
• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel and Word;
• Ability to work within and maintain a CRM.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills; including strong ability to provide medical information in a concise and objective manner;
• Analytical ability to evaluate clients with various diagnoses and establish an appropriate intervention plan;
• High level of professionalism and confidentiality with an ability to deal with sensitive client issues;
• Strong organizational, time-management and prioritizing skills;
• Excellent interpersonal and customer-facing skills with an ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with staff and stakeholders;
• Ability to multi-task while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong work ethic and coachable attitude;
• Ability to work independently as well as within a team environment.

Working Conditions

• Local travel may be required;
• Occasional ability to work evenings and weekends;
• Overtime as required.