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Physical Therapist interview for college assignment ?

Hi My name is Jennifer! I’m currently working on my bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and hoping to eventually get into the physical therapy program at Texas Tech University.

I need help with getting an interview with a DPT as apart of as one of my college assignments. I’m very excited to get in this field but want to know more about what it is DPTs do on a daily basis and what you did to get to where you are today.

Thanks for any of the help!

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Linda’s Answer

Hello Jennifer,
I also accomplished my DPT through a transitional program. Your question; "What is it DPTs do on a daily basis and what you did to get to where you are today?"
It depends on your practice area, but daily we all do the following;

- evaluation and examination- which includes documentation review, a systems review (neuro, gross motor, family, mental health) -
-in my situation, I often need to provide care coordination to refer to other providers such as social work, orthopedics, pulmonology, primary, and behavioral health and also discuss the transition to adulthood and community resources.
-follow up treatments: treatment will focus on various gross motor areas; strength, range of motion, balance, coordination, functional movements, manual therapy, cardiac health, equipment needs
-depends on practice area- care coordination, transition to community
-and of course documentation of each visit to ensure proper patient care and reimbursement.
My journey to PT
-community college
-bachelor of science degree
-masters of Physical Therapy
- online transitional DPT- not because it was needed or required but because I like to learn
-continuing education
-Involvement in the national American Physical Therapy Association and my state chapter- this involvement is important for our profession and your development in leadership. Also, the connections you make may help new grads -such as the mentoring programs, and also potential new revenue streams you had not previously thought of pursuing.
-Volunteering in many areas- PT services for the homeless, arts, mentoring, Career village, committees, Spina Bifida Board member local chapter and current advisor for the national Spina Bifida Association
My current position of 13 years in a multidisciplinary clinic for peds through adulthood with chronic health and or disabilities- has been a great opportunity because I saw areas of growth for patients and myself and presented them to management. Please feel free to reach out to me personally at any point in your career. I am very proud of the physical therapy profession. we have a great history and an exciting future.
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Houcine’s Answer

Hi Jennifer,

I'm delighted to hear about your interest in pursuing a career in physical therapy. I'd be happy to help you with your college assignment. While I am not a DPT myself, I can guide you on how to approach this interview. You might want to reach out to a practicing Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) in your local area or someone associated with Texas Tech University's program.

When requesting an interview, be clear about the purpose, your background in kinesiology, and your aspirations for the physical therapy program. Express your genuine interest in understanding the daily responsibilities of DPTs and inquire about their journey to reach their current position. Questions could include their typical day, the challenges they face, and the steps they took to achieve their career goals.

Remember to be respectful of their time, and you can offer to conduct the interview through a convenient medium for them, whether in person, over the phone, or via email. You may also consider contacting your university's career center for guidance on connecting with professionals in the field.

Best of luck with your assignment, and I hope you gain valuable insights into the world of physical therapy!

Warm regards,
Houcine
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Susie’s Answer

I am happy to help if you would be interested in interviewing me, however, I did my DPT through a transitional program, called a tDPT, after I'd already been practicing as a PT for 25 years with a BS in PT. I'd done an MS in between, but not in PT. In Child Development. When I started out as a PT in 1992, the field didn't offer the DPT, so lots of us have gone back to finish the extra coursework (like Research, Pharmacology, Embryology, Ethics, Capstone project) that wasn't offered in the BS program. It might be more helpful to speak with a therapist who has done their DPT more recently, but if you can't find anyone, you can message me on LinkedIn.
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Margaret’s Answer

I am not a DPT but I work directly under 4 in my facility. They evaluate the patient , set goals to maximize their function and prepare a plan to make it all happen. There is a ton of paperwork so computer skills are vital. They also speak with the insurance companies on the patients behalf to obtain authorization for care.
I hope this helps , good luck with your studies.
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