Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist – Full‑Time

Palo Alto County Health System (PACHS)
Emmetsburg, IA

Sign‑On Bonus: $20,000

Position Overview

Palo Alto County Health System (PACHS) is seeking a Physical Therapist to join our Rehabilitation Services team. This position provides physical therapy services to outpatients, inpatients, and home care clients in a hospital‑based setting. The role includes patient evaluation, treatment planning and implementation, documentation, patient education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

PACHS is a county‑owned healthcare system committed to compassion, respect, and high‑quality care. We emphasize clinical autonomy, realistic workloads, and strong work‑life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide physical therapy evaluations and treatments in accordance with established plans of care
• Treat patients across the lifespan with a wide variety of diagnoses
• Deliver care in outpatient, acute inpatient, skilled inpatient, and home care settings
• Complete clinical documentation accurately and in a timely manner within the electronic medical record
• Educate patients and families on treatment plans and progress
• Supervise Physical Therapist Assistants, rehab aides, and students as appropriate
• Collaborate with physicians, nursing staff, and the multidisciplinary care team
• Adhere to the Iowa Physical Therapy Practice Act, APTA Code of Ethics, and professional standards
• Participate in program development and department initiatives as needed

What Sets PACHS Apart

Therapists at PACHS value a work environment that prioritizes quality care and sustainability:

• Scheduled documentation time built into the workday
• Flexible scheduling options
• Minimal, tradeable weekend rotation (inpatient coverage only – approximately 6–7 weekends per year)
• No formal productivity standards or productivity tracking

Facilities & Equipment

The PACHS Rehabilitation Department was remodeled in 2017 and includes:

• Multiple private treatment rooms
• Large exercise gym
• Therapy pool

Available equipment includes:

• Medical‑grade treadmill with adjustable‑height grab bars, decline, and backward‑walking capabilities
• Dynavision system
• NeuroCom balance system

Therapists see patients of all ages and diagnoses, ensuring variety and continued skill development.

Continuing Education & Professional Growth

PACHS supports lifelong learning through a generous continuing education budget. We regularly invest in on‑site courses and skill development opportunities to support evidence‑based practice and professional advancement.

Compensation & Benefits

PACHS offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• $20,000 sign‑on bonus for eligible candidates
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) participation
• Generous paid time off (PTO) beginning accruing on day one
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for qualifying federal student loans
• Supportive rural healthcare environment with excellent work‑life balance

Qualifications

Required:

• Graduation from an accredited Physical Therapist program or 6 months to 1 year from graduation
• Eligible for or currently holding Iowa Physical Therapy licensure
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Valid Iowa driver’s license (or ability to obtain)

Preferred:

• Experience in hospital‑based or outpatient physical therapy (new graduates welcome to apply)

Work Schedule

• Full‑time, exempt position
• Flexible scheduling available
• Occasional weekend inpatient coverage only

How to Apply

To learn more or apply, contact:

Ted Collins
Palo Alto County Health System
📧 Ted.collins@mercyhealth.com
📞 712‑852‑5448