Are you a physical therapist with a case of wanderlust? Do you dream of exploring new places while helping patients improve their mobility and quality of life? If so, then becoming a travel physical therapist might be the perfect career for you!
A travel physical therapist is a healthcare professional who works on short-term assignments in different locations. These professionals are responsible for evaluating patients, creating treatment plans, and providing therapy to help them recover from injuries or illnesses. Travel physical therapists get to enjoy all the perks of traveling while earning a competitive salary and gaining valuable experience in diverse clinical settings.
If you’re interested in pursuing this exciting career path, keep reading! In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps you need to take to become a travel physical therapist. From education and licensing requirements to job-hunting tips, we’ve got you covered.
“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Saint Augustine
So grab your passport and let’s dive into the world of travel physical therapy!
Obtain A Bachelor’s Degree In Physical Therapy
Becoming a travel physical therapist requires extensive education and training. One of the most important steps in this process is obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy.
Enroll in an accredited physical therapy program
The first step in obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy is to find an accredited program that fits your needs. There are many options available, both online and on-campus, each with its own unique curriculum and requirements. Research different programs to find the one that best aligns with your career goals and learning style.
Complete coursework in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology
Once enrolled in a physical therapy program, you will begin taking courses in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology. These classes provide a foundation for the rest of your physical therapy education by helping you understand how the body works and moves.
You will also take courses specific to physical therapy, such as therapeutic exercise, neuro-rehabilitation, and manual therapy techniques. It’s important to excel in these courses, as they will form the basis of your future clinical practice.
Participate in clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience
In addition to classroom learning, every physical therapy program requires students to complete multiple clinical rotations. During these rotations, you will work alongside licensed physical therapists to gain hands-on experience treating patients of all ages and abilities.
Clinical rotations may take place in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or outpatient clinics. They typically last several weeks to several months, depending on the program’s requirements. Be sure to ask questions, seek out feedback, and learn as much as possible during your time in each clinical setting.
Graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in physical therapy
After completing all coursework and clinical rotations, you will graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy. This is a significant achievement that shows potential employers your commitment to the field.
To be eligible for licensure as a physical therapist, however, you must also pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). The NPTE is a comprehensive exam covering all aspects of physical therapy, from patient evaluation to therapeutic interventions. Prepare diligently for this exam, as passing it is necessary to begin practicing as a licensed physical therapist.
“The process of becoming a travel physical therapist requires extensive education and training. Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy is just the beginning of a rewarding career helping others achieve their mobility goals.” -American Medical Association
Get Licensed As A Physical Therapist
Research state requirements for physical therapy licensure
Before embarking on your journey to becoming a licensed physical therapist, it is important to research and understand the specific state requirements for licensure. Each state may have their own set of regulations regarding education, clinical hours, and examinations.
It’s essential to ensure that you meet all requirements before applying for licensure with the state board of physical therapy. This will help avoid any setbacks or delays in obtaining your license.
Complete required clinical hours and pass the National Physical Therapy Exam
In order to become a licensed physical therapist, you must first complete the necessary clinical hours of practical experience. The number of hours required may vary depending on your state’s regulations and the specific program you attended.
Once you’ve completed your clinical hours, you’ll need to take and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This exam covers crucial aspects of physical therapy practice, including evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, intervention, and outcome assessment. Passing this exam demonstrates your competency in these areas and is mandatory for licensure as a physical therapist.
Apply for licensure with the state board of physical therapy
After completing your clinical hours and passing the NPTE, it’s time to apply for licensure with the state board of physical therapy. This application process typically involves submitting transcripts, verification of clinical hours, proof of passing scores from the NPTE, and payment of fees.
The board may also require additional documentation, such as background checks and drug screenings. It’s crucial to maintain communication with the board throughout the application process to stay up-to-date on any changes or requirements.
Maintain licensure through continuing education and renewal requirements
Once you’ve obtained your license as a physical therapist, it’s important to maintain it by fulfilling continuing education and renewal requirements. Continuing education ensures that physical therapists stay current on the latest research, techniques, and technologies within their field.
The specific number of hours required may vary depending on your state’s regulations, but most states require between 20-40 hours per year. Additionally, renewing your license every few years is also mandatory and typically requires proof of continuing education completion and payment of fees.
“Continuing education is essential for anyone looking to keep up-to-date in their industry.” -Maureen Erikson
Becoming a licensed physical therapist requires dedication, time, and effort. By researching state requirements, completing clinical hours, passing the NPTE, applying for licensure, and maintaining ongoing education and renewal requirements, you can fulfill your dream of becoming a travel physical therapist and help people all over the world achieve optimal physical function and health.
Gain Experience In Clinical Settings
If you’re looking to become a travel physical therapist, one of the most important things you can do is gain experience in clinical settings. Not only will this give you the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a PT but it will also make you an attractive candidate for travel positions.
Apply for entry-level physical therapy positions
To gain experience in clinical settings, you’ll need to start by applying for entry-level physical therapy positions with hospitals or clinics. These are competitive positions, so be sure to put together a strong resume that highlights your education, certifications, and any relevant work experience you’ve gained so far.
When you’re filling out applications, make sure you’re tailoring your cover letter to each position you apply for. This shows employers that you’re serious about getting the job and have researched their organization beforehand.
Remember that even if you don’t get your dream job right away, any experience in the field will help you move forward on your path to becoming a travel physical therapist.
Volunteer at hospitals or clinics to gain additional experience
In addition to applying for entry-level positions, consider gaining additional experience by volunteering at hospitals or clinics.
This may not seem like the ideal way to spend your time, especially if you’re already working another job. However, volunteering can provide valuable learning opportunities, such as handling difficult cases, interacting with patients, developing relationships with staff members, and building your network.
Volunteering can also demonstrate to potential employers that you’re committed to the physical therapy profession and willing to go above and beyond what’s expected.
If you decide to volunteer, keep your end goal in mind – securing a role as a travel physical therapist – and aim to make connections with professionals in the industry. You never know who might be able to help you land your dream job.
Secure A Job With A Travel Physical Therapy Agency
If you’re a physical therapist looking for an exciting new career opportunity, becoming a travel physical therapist could be the perfect choice. Travel physical therapists work in different locations across the country or even internationally, while enjoying a range of benefits that come with this type of role. Here are some tips on how to become a travel physical therapist!
Research travel physical therapy agencies and their requirements
The first step in becoming a travel physical therapist is to research different agencies that offer these types of jobs. Not all agencies are created equal, so it’s important to do your research before applying to any specific agency. Look for agencies that have been around for a while, as they will likely have established relationships with healthcare facilities across the country.
You should also consider the specific requirements each agency has for its travel physical therapists. Some agencies may require certain certifications or specialties, while others may only accept candidates who have a certain amount of experience under their belts. Make sure you meet all the requirements before applying.
Submit application materials, including licensure and experience information
Once you’ve identified which travel physical therapy agencies you’d like to apply to, you’ll need to put together your application materials. This will typically include your resume, proof of licensure, references, and other relevant documents. You may also need to submit information about your past experience working as a physical therapist.
It’s important to ensure that your application materials are polished and professional-looking. Take the time to proofread everything carefully and make sure there are no typos or errors. You want to make the best possible impression on potential employers.
Prepare for interviews with potential travel physical therapy agencies
After submitting your application materials, you may be invited to interview with one or more travel physical therapy agencies. These interviews can take place over the phone, via video chat, or in-person.
To prepare for your interviews, it’s important to research the agency and the specific role you’re being considered for. Be ready to answer questions about your experience working as a physical therapist and why you’re interested in becoming a travel physical therapist.
It’s also a good idea to have questions of your own prepared to ask during the interview. This will demonstrate that you’re serious about the position and want to learn as much as possible.
Select a travel physical therapy agency and accept an assignment
After completing all the steps above, you’ll hopefully have received multiple job offers from different travel physical therapy agencies. Now comes the fun part: choosing which opportunity to pursue!
When deciding which agency and assignment to take, consider factors such as location, pay rate, benefits, and any other perks offered by the agency. Some agencies offer generous housing allowances, for example, while others may provide health insurance benefits.
Once you’ve accepted an assignment with an agency, you’ll typically need to complete any necessary paperwork and ensure that everything is in order before beginning work at your new location.
“Becoming a travel physical therapist means getting paid to see new places, meet new people, and help others along the way.” -CovalentCareers
By following these steps, you can become a travel physical therapist and start enjoying all the excitement and adventure that come with this unique career path!
Explore Different Travel Assignments To Build Your Skills And Experience
If you’re a physical therapist who is looking for new challenges and experiences, becoming a travel physical therapist may be an excellent option. As a travel PT, you’ll get to see the country, work in different settings, and gain experience working with various patient populations.
To become a travel physical therapist, there are several steps you should take. First, obtain your physical therapy degree from an accredited program, including both classroom and clinical components. Once you have your degree, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE), which will grant you licensure.
Next, gain some experience as a physical therapist. Most travel PT jobs require at least one year of practice, although some employers may prefer more. It is also recommended that travel physical therapists seek certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, specializing in areas such as neurology or geriatrics.
Once you meet these requirements, explore different travel assignments to build your skills and experience. Here are some additional tips:
- Find a reputable staffing agency: Look for staffing agencies that specialize in placing travel PTs in short-term positions across the country. These agencies can negotiate pay and benefits on your behalf and match you with suitable assignments.
- Research locations: Consider what parts of the country interest you and do some research about the facilities in those areas. Popular destinations include big cities, rural areas, and vacation spots like Hawaii and Florida.
- Determine your goals: Decide if you would like to focus on building particular skills sets, whether that’s working with specific patient populations (such as stroke patients) or in certain settings (like outpatient clinics).
Work with a variety of patient populations and treatment settings
One of the exciting aspects of being a travel physical therapist is working with a wide range of patients. Depending on your assignment, you may work with pediatric or geriatric populations, trauma patients, athletes, or individuals recovering from surgery. Each experience provides an opportunity to learn new skills and approaches while providing quality care.
You also get exposed to different treatment settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, schools, and nursing homes. This exposure helps develop your problem-solving and critical thinking abilities since each setting presents its unique challenges.
“As a travel PT, you get to see different parts of the country and meet many types of people,” says Dr. Alan Balch, CEO of the Patient Advocate Foundation. “It’s essential not only for professional growth but personal growth.”
Participate in Continuing Education Opportunities To Expand Your Knowledge Base
Continuing education opportunities for travel physical therapists are crucial. Most states require ongoing education credits to maintain licensure, and many employers prefer their travel practitioners to stay up-to-date with trends, advances, and research in the field.
Attending workshops, conferences, and courses can enhance your qualifications, improve competencies, and keep you updated with advancements in technology and industry-specific practices. Additionally, they provide possibilities to gain knowledge in related specialties, which could increase job opportunities and earnings.
Network with Other Travel Physical Therapists To Gain Insight And Advice
The best sources of information about travel physical therapy jobs are other travel PTs. Networking with other professionals can grant insight and advice needed when considering or during assignments. Relationships formed through social media platforms, national travel groups, and regional associations offer support systems beneficial for both professional development and social connections on the road.
Online forums, blogs, and podcasts help in staying connected with colleagues within the travel therapy field. These resources disseminate up-to-date information about obtaining job opportunities, insights on various assignments’ essential aspects, how to thrive while working with different patient populations and treatment types among other essentials of a travel PT
“Helping others in need is not only good for the person you are helping but it’s also good for your own soul.” -Anonymous
Frequently Asked Questions
What education and training are required to become a travel physical therapist?
To become a travel physical therapist, you must have a degree in physical therapy from an accredited program and obtain a state license. There are also specialized certifications available, such as the Certified Lymphedema Therapist certification, which can enhance your qualifications.
What skills does a travel physical therapist need to have?
Travel physical therapists need to have strong communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. They should also have a strong understanding of anatomy and physiology, as well as experience with various therapy techniques and equipment. Adaptability, flexibility, and a willingness to learn are also essential.
What are some tips for finding travel physical therapist jobs?
Some tips for finding travel physical therapist jobs include networking with other healthcare professionals, using online job boards and staffing agencies, and attending job fairs and conferences. It’s also important to have a strong resume and cover letter that highlight your skills and experience.
What are the benefits of being a travel physical therapist?
Being a travel physical therapist offers many benefits, including the opportunity to explore new places, meet new people, and gain experience in different healthcare settings. It can also provide increased flexibility and autonomy in your work, as well as potentially higher pay and benefits.
How much can a travel physical therapist expect to earn?
The salary for a travel physical therapist can vary depending on location, experience, and specialty. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physical therapists was $91,010 as of May 2020.
What are some common challenges faced by travel physical therapists?
Some common challenges faced by travel physical therapists include adjusting to new work environments, working with unfamiliar staff and patients, and managing the stress of travel. It’s also important to maintain a work-life balance and take care of your physical and mental health while on the job.