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How many hours do people work as a physical therapist

I am interested in becoming a physical therapist, and am curious as to what the work load is like.
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Jamie’s Answer

As a physical therapist, it really depends on what type of clinic/program you work in. Most therapists work a full time position, 40 hours a week.

The beauty of therapy is you do not have to work solely in one clinic/hospital/skilled nursing facility/home health company. You have the option to work multiple PRN (part time/as needed) positions instead, or just pick up a few extra hours to help pay off student loans.

As a physical therapist, the 40 hour work week mostly includes interaction with your patients in a hands-on environment, but does also include time spent doing documentation on the computer.

Jamie recommends the following next steps:

Try to find some clinics or locations that will allow you to observe to find out if it is a career you want to pursue.
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Susie’s Answer

Most PTs who work full-time for a company log about 42.5 hours a week, 8.5 hour days x 5, or 4 10.5-hour shifts, so just a regular workweek plus a little extra since you are not typically paid for your lunch. Many therapists work extra shifts on the weekend as "registry" or "PRN" therapists to pay down graduate school loans, so they will pick up an extra 8 hours a week on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday. You can really work as many hours as you want. Most PTs I know work at least one job during the week and then pick up weekend hours for another company.
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Estelle’s Answer

I'm not a PT, but I am a physician and surgeon and work with PTs all the time! I think that they provide a very valuable service to the community with their skill set and get to build a relationship with their patients.

According to a quick google search: "Most full-time PTs work at least 40 hours a week and spend extra time doing notes at the clinic or at home if their clinic allows."

I think that PTs are a vital part of the healthcare team and I wish you the best!
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