williston state college physical therapist assistant program by robert benson
TRANSCRIPT
Williston State College
• Physical Therapist Assistant Program• By Robert Benson
Physical Therapist Assistant
• One of the fastest growing medical professions• Predicted further growth with the “Baby Boom”
generation aging
What is a PTA?
• Assists the Physical Therapist in the practice of applying various physical treatments to help restore function. This would include using exercise, massage, heat, cold, electricity, water and assistive devices.
Background Information
• Program began in August 1992• 1st class graduated in May 1995• 1st program within a 5 state region - ND, MT,
SD, WY, CO• Maximum of 16 students taken each year• 2 1/2 year program
WSC Program
• 2 ½ Year Associate in applied Science program
Educational Requirements
• 1st year - Prerequisite courses – A&P, Chemistry, Physics, English, Speech, Math,
Psychology, First Aid, Computer, Intro to PT• Apply for admission - March• 2nd year - Program courses
– Kinesiology, Treatment Issues, Pathology, Therapeutic Exercise, Modalities, Neurological Rehab, Assessment, Adv Techniques ,and Adv Exercises
• Summer - two eight-week affiliations
Licensure
• Exam taken after fieldwork is completed• Computerized
– 150 questions– multiple choice– 3 hours
• Most States (48) require licensure
Employment Settings
• Hospital• Private office• Extended care facility / Nursing home• Rehabilitation center• Home health agency• School system• Academic institutions
Earnings
• Vary across the country• $20,000 - $30,000 per year starting• $10 - $15 per hour
Hazards
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome• Spine injuries• Exposure to Disease• Need proper warm up and to watch body
mechanics
Combining PTA and MT
• 2 1/2 years of PTA program courses• 1 year MT program courses
