Physical Therapist - Join Sanford Health and Make a Difference in Preston, MN

Role Overview

Sanford Health, one of the largest and fastest-growing not-for-profit health systems in the United States, is seeking a dedicated and passionate Physical Therapist to join our Skilled Rehab and Home Health team at Good Samaritan in SE MN. This full-time position (35-40 hours per week) offers a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive physical therapy services in both home health and skilled nursing facility settings. As a Physical Therapist, you will play a vital role in helping patients recover and improve their mobility, relieve pain, increase strength, and prevent deformities.

A Day in the Life of a Physical Therapist at Sanford Health

Imagine starting your day by reviewing patient charts and preparing for home visits. You drive to your first patient's home, where you conduct a thorough assessment to understand their specific needs and goals. You develop a personalized treatment plan that may include exercises to improve strength and balance, manual therapy techniques to relieve pain, and gait training to enhance mobility. You educate the patient and their family on how to perform these exercises safely and effectively at home. In the afternoon, you transition to a skilled nursing facility, where you work with patients recovering from surgery or managing chronic conditions. You collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and occupational therapists, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care. You document patient progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide ongoing support and encouragement.

Why Preston, MN?

Preston, Minnesota, is a charming small town nestled in the heart of Fillmore County. Known as the "Gateway to Bluff Country," Preston offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. With its rolling hills, scenic trails, and the Root River, Preston provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking. Living in Preston also means enjoying a lower cost of living, a relaxed pace of life, and a close-knit community where neighbors support each other. The town boasts excellent schools, a variety of local businesses, and numerous community events throughout the year. Preston's proximity to larger cities like Rochester and La Crosse provides easy access to additional amenities and cultural attractions.

Career Path for Physical Therapists at Sanford Health

Sanford Health is committed to providing its employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and advancement. As a Physical Therapist, you can pursue various career paths, including: * **Clinical Specialist:** Develop expertise in a specific area of physical therapy, such as orthopedics, neurology, or geriatrics. * **Rehab Manager:** Oversee the operations of a rehabilitation department, managing staff, budgets, and patient care. * **Clinical Director:** Provide leadership and direction for multiple rehabilitation departments or facilities. * **Educator:** Teach physical therapy courses at a university or college. * **Researcher:** Conduct research studies to advance the field of physical therapy. Sanford Health also offers leadership development programs and mentorship opportunities to help you achieve your career goals.

Salary and Benefits

Sanford Health offers a competitive salary and benefits package that includes: * Competitive salary commensurate with experience * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off (PTO) and holidays * Retirement plan with employer match * Life insurance and disability coverage * Professional development opportunities * Tuition reimbursement * Employee assistance program (EAP) * Wellness programs The estimated salary range for a Physical Therapist in Preston, MN, is $75,000 to $105,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

Sanford Health Culture

Sanford Health is more than just a healthcare provider; it's a family. We are committed to creating a supportive and collaborative work environment where every employee feels valued and respected. We believe in providing our employees with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, both personally and professionally. Our core values of integrity, excellence, innovation, and caring guide everything we do. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality care to our patients and to making a positive impact on the communities we serve. ## How to Apply If you are a passionate and dedicated Physical Therapist looking for a rewarding career opportunity, we encourage you to apply online through the Sanford Health careers website. Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **Q1: What are the requirements to get licensed as a Physical Therapist in Minnesota?** **A:** In Minnesota, you need to graduate from an accredited physical therapy program and pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). **Q2: What is the typical caseload for a Home Health Physical Therapist?** **A:** Caseload varies, usually ranging from 6 to 8 patients per day. **Q3: What types of continuing education opportunities are available at Sanford Health?** **A:** Sanford Health offers tuition reimbursement, in-house training, and opportunities to attend external conferences. **Q4: What is the work-life balance like at Sanford Health?** **A:** Sanford Health promotes work-life balance with flexible scheduling and generous PTO policies. **Q5: Is there room for advancement within the Physical Therapy department?** **A:** Yes, Sanford Health offers career advancement opportunities like clinical specialization and management roles. **Q6: What kind of mentorship programs are offered to new Physical Therapists?** **A:** Sanford Health offers structured mentorship programs pairing new grads with experienced therapists. **Q7: What EMR system does Sanford Health use?** **A:** Sanford Health uses Epic for its Electronic Medical Records. **Q8: How does Sanford Health support professional development?** **A:** Sanford Health provides funds, resources, and dedicated time for therapists to improve their skills. **Q9: Are there opportunities to participate in community outreach programs?** **A:** Yes, Sanford Health encourages employees to participate in community health initiatives. **Q10: What are the benefits of working for a non-profit healthcare system?** **A:** Working for a non-profit allows you to focus on patient care without profit motives, and often comes with student loan forgiveness programs.