Physical Therapist

<p>This Physical Therapist position is in the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Service of the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center located in Houston, Texas.</p><h3>Major Duties</h3><p>This position supports the Active Management of Pain (AMP) initiative to provide an approach that leverage the knowledge and skills of a clinical psychologist alongside the physical therapist who will work together in a coordinated and collaborative treatment approach to a multimodal chronic pain management within the pain management team. Utilizes evaluation data to plan and implement comprehensive patient treatment, involving patient in the goal setting and treatment processes as feasible. Responsible for the application of behavioral strategies to recognize and address fear avoidance presentations, as well as for adapting physical therapy approach to patients presenting with a combination of severe mental and physical disabilities. Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing, with patients. Develops an individualized patient centered treatment program for each patient including short and long term goals as appropriate. Implements, in a timely manner, progressive treatment programs to meet goals, taking into consideration particularly the rehabilitation problems of each patient. Applies recognized Physical therapy treatment procedures correctly, safely, and modifies these techniques in such a manner as not to interfere with any traction devices, surgical drains, catheters, immobilizing appliances, respiratory aides, or monitoring devices. On an on-going basis, in response to the patient's reaction to treatment, adapts and modifies treatment programs, to better meet short term and long term goals. Recognizes adverse reaction to treatment, significantly altered physical or mental status of patients, and reports to appropriate medical authority. Documents initial findings, treatment goals, equipment recommendations, treatment provided, patient progress, patient/family education, and discharge summary in patient's medical record. Participates in multidisciplinary team meetings, as well as pain committee meetings, as indicated by Pain Clinic leadership, as well as section and service leadership. Completes patient and/or family training as indicated. Work Schedule: 8:00 am - 4:30 PM Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 02259-F; 02260-F Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized</p><h3>Requirements</h3>You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.<h3>Education</h3>Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.