Job Outlook For Physical Therapists

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The profession of a physical therapist is one of the few that is considered to be recession-proof amidst the nation’s economic difficulty. Based on labor statistics, the jobs that require the services of physical therapists outnumber the actual supply. In order to take advantage of these work demands, most of the qualified physical therapists are currently employed in two or more jobs. The highest percentage works in medical offices or clinics of certified practitioners. General hospitals rank second and home health care services come in third. As to the salary rates, the highest compensation goes to those employed in management and consulting services. However, only a minority of the group is actually working in such industry.

Current Outlook

For the past decade, employment in the field of physical therapy appears to be very consistent. As mentioned above, it has been ranked as one of the best career choices in the US as of this date. Due to the consistently growing demand, economists consider the physical therapy profession to be secured and stable. One contributing factor is the increasing population of the elderly. Furthermore, post-trauma patients and those who are suffering from physical disabilities continue to be a significant factor. Apart from the traditional tasks, there is also a demand for physical therapy educators. They work in medical institutions where government mandated programs are being implemented such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Lastly, there has been a reported shortage of PTs in rural areas which again leads to more openings for future graduates. To encourage therapists to apply in such places, medical institutions and doctor’s offices there typically offer a higher compensation.

Earnings

Economists have ranked physical therapists as being one of the highest paid groups in the medical field. For instance, the industry of home health care services offers a physical therapy salary rate that averages $86,590 per annum. For this reason, such facilities have the highest rate of employment for physical therapists. With regards to location, the state of Texas tops in terms of compensating certified therapists.

Future Outlook

Recent statistics from the Labor Department show a 30% increase of projected physical therapist employment from 2008 to 2018. This growth rate is acknowledged to be faster than the average incline of other careers. As mentioned above, one of the bases for this data is the significant increase of demand due to the growth of the elderly. Demand for this job also remains strong in the provincial areas where supply of PT professionals is limited. Projection with regards to earnings shows that the physical therapy salary rate will increase in direct proportion to the demand for the job in rural areas and in facilities that cater to the expanding number of seniors. Favorable projections can also be attributed to the advance medical technologies that are awaiting approval for implementation. Career growth in physical therapy can also be expected as a result of medical breakthroughs. Apart from these factors, government funded programs continue to be a major factor in the demand for physical therapists. One of the most popular programs is the early intervention program for children with special needs.

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