25 Physical Therapy Assistant Interview Questions and Answers

Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) help physical therapists (PTs) provide treatment that improves the mobility, strength, and function of patients with physical impairments. They work with patients of all ages who have a wide range of conditions, including orthopedic injuries, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular problems.

If you’re thinking about becoming a PTA, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some questions in your job interview. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some common PTA interview questions and answers to help you prepare.

1. Are you comfortable working with patients who have a wide range of conditions?

This question can help interviewers understand how you might fit into their facility. They may ask this to see if you have experience working with a variety of patients and conditions, as well as your comfort level in doing so. When answering, it can be helpful to mention the types of patients you’ve worked with in the past and what challenges you faced.

Example: “Absolutely! I have experience working with patients of all ages and abilities, from those recovering from a sports injury to those living with chronic conditions. I am comfortable adapting my approach to each patient’s individual needs in order to provide the best care possible. I believe that it is important to create an environment where the patient feels safe and supported throughout their treatment plan.

I also understand the importance of communication between myself and the patient. I strive to ensure that they are informed about their condition, progress, and any changes in their treatment plan. My goal is to empower them to take an active role in their own recovery.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a physical therapy assistant to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills and abilities needed to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they relate to physical therapy assistant work.

Example: “As a physical therapy assistant, I believe the most important skills to have are excellent communication and interpersonal skills. It is essential that I am able to effectively communicate with patients, as well as other healthcare professionals, in order to provide the best care possible.

I also think it is important for a physical therapy assistant to be organized and detail-oriented. This helps ensure that all paperwork is completed accurately and on time, which is critical when dealing with medical records.

In addition, having strong problem solving and critical thinking skills are invaluable. Physical therapy assistants must be able to assess patient needs and develop individualized treatment plans accordingly. Being able to quickly identify potential problems and come up with creative solutions is key.”

3. How would you describe the role of a physical therapy assistant in relation to a physical therapist?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you understand the role of a physical therapy assistant and how it relates to the role of a physical therapist. You can answer this question by describing what you believe are the primary responsibilities of each position, as well as the importance of both roles in providing quality care to patients.

Example: “As a physical therapy assistant, I understand that my role is to provide support and assistance to the physical therapist. My primary responsibility is to help patients reach their goals by providing quality care under the direction of the physical therapist. This includes helping with exercises, treatments, and other activities as prescribed by the physical therapist.

I am also responsible for maintaining accurate records of patient progress, communicating with the physical therapist about any changes in the patient’s condition, and educating patients on how to properly perform their exercises and treatments. In addition, I will be able to recognize signs of improvement or decline in a patient’s condition and report these observations to the physical therapist.”

4. What is your experience with providing hands-on care to patients?

This question can help the interviewer understand your experience level and how you might fit into their facility. If you have previous experience working as a physical therapy assistant, describe what your typical day was like. If you don’t have any professional experience, consider describing an instance where you helped someone with mobility or flexibility issues.

Example: “I have been a Physical Therapy Assistant for the past five years and during that time I have had extensive experience providing hands-on care to patients. In my current role, I am responsible for helping patients with their exercises and stretches as well as providing manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilizations. I also assist in setting up equipment for treatments, help with patient transfers, and provide education on proper body mechanics. I take pride in being able to provide quality care to each of my patients and strive to ensure they are comfortable throughout the entire process. My experience has allowed me to develop strong communication skills which enable me to effectively communicate with both patients and other healthcare professionals. I believe these skills make me an ideal candidate for this position.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to help a patient with a challenging personality.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle difficult situations. They want to know that you’re able to remain calm and professional in these types of scenarios, so it’s important to highlight your ability to do this effectively.

Example: “I recently had a patient with a challenging personality who was recovering from a knee injury. I knew it would be difficult to get him to follow through with his physical therapy exercises, so I took the time to build a rapport with him. I asked him about his hobbies and interests, and we talked about sports teams he liked. This helped create an atmosphere of trust between us.

Once that trust was established, I was able to explain why certain exercises were important for his recovery. I also provided positive reinforcement when he completed each exercise correctly. He eventually began to take ownership of his own rehabilitation process, which resulted in a successful outcome.”

6. If a patient was struggling with a particular exercise, how would you approach the situation?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenging situations. It’s important to show that you’re willing to take initiative and problem-solve when needed. In your answer, try to describe a specific situation where you helped a patient overcome an obstacle during physical therapy.

Example: “When a patient is struggling with an exercise, my approach would be to first assess the situation. I would ask questions to gain insight into why they are having difficulty and what their goals for the exercise are. From there, I would work with them to come up with a plan that meets both of our needs. This could include modifying the exercise or breaking it down into smaller steps. I would also ensure that the patient has proper form and technique before attempting the exercise again. Finally, I would provide encouragement and support throughout the process to help them stay motivated. My goal is always to ensure that the patient feels comfortable and confident in their abilities so that they can reach their full potential.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a fellow employee was not following proper safety procedures?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you handle conflict and whether you’re willing to speak up when necessary. In your answer, try to show that you value safety in the workplace and are willing to take action if needed.

Example: “If I noticed a fellow employee was not following proper safety procedures, my first step would be to address the issue in a respectful and professional manner. I believe that open communication is key when it comes to addressing any issues within an organization. I would start by asking them why they are not following the safety protocols and then work together to come up with a solution. If necessary, I would also involve our supervisor or other members of management to ensure that the problem is resolved quickly and effectively.

I have extensive experience working as a Physical Therapy Assistant and I understand the importance of following safety protocols. I take pride in ensuring that all patients receive the highest quality care possible and I am committed to upholding the standards set forth by the facility.”

8. How well do you think you would fit into a team-based physical therapy practice?

Teamwork is an important skill for physical therapy assistants to have. Employers ask this question to make sure you are a good fit for their team. Before your interview, think about how well you work with others. Think of a time when you were part of a team and helped achieve a goal. Explain what made you a valuable member of the team.

Example: “I believe I would be a great fit for a team-based physical therapy practice. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, I understand the importance of collaboration and communication between all members of the team. I have experience working in both individual and group settings, so I am comfortable with either approach.

In addition to my ability to work well with others, I also bring strong organizational skills to the table. I’m able to prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects at once while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. My knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and therapeutic exercise techniques allows me to provide quality care to patients. Finally, I’m passionate about helping people reach their goals and take pride in seeing them progress.”

9. Do you have any experience working with children?

Working with children can be a rewarding experience, but it also requires patience and the ability to connect with them. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills necessary to work with their patients who are often young children. In your answer, share an example of how you worked with children in the past. Explain that you enjoy working with kids and find it rewarding when they improve or overcome challenges.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with children. During my time as a Physical Therapy Assistant, I had the opportunity to work with pediatric patients of all ages. I am comfortable and confident in my ability to create individualized treatment plans for each child based on their needs. I understand that every child is different and requires unique approaches when it comes to physical therapy.

I also have experience helping children develop motor skills, improve strength and flexibility, and increase coordination. I take great pride in being able to help children reach their goals and see them progress over time. My passion for working with children has enabled me to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and treatments available.”

10. When is it appropriate to refer a patient to a physician?

This question can help the interviewer determine your understanding of when to refer a patient to a physician. It also shows that you are able to make independent decisions in the workplace. Use examples from your experience to explain how you would know when it’s appropriate to refer a patient to a physician and why you would do so.

Example: “When it comes to patient care, I understand the importance of making sure that each individual is receiving the best possible treatment. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, I am aware of when it is appropriate to refer a patient to a physician for further evaluation and/or treatment. Generally speaking, if a patient’s condition is beyond my scope of practice or outside of what physical therapy can provide, then referral to a physician may be necessary. For example, if a patient has an injury that requires surgical intervention, then I would refer them to a physician. In addition, if a patient’s symptoms are worsening despite physical therapy interventions, then I would also refer them to a physician for further assessment. Finally, if a patient has any medical conditions that require medication management, such as diabetes or hypertension, then they should be referred to a physician.”

11. We want to improve our online presence. How would you promote our practice on social media?

Social media is a great way to connect with patients and promote your practice. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience using social media for marketing purposes. In your answer, share how you would use each platform to reach new audiences. Explain that you will create content that’s interesting and engaging.

Example: “I believe that social media is an excellent tool for promoting a physical therapy practice. As a Physical Therapy Assistant, I understand the importance of connecting with potential patients and building relationships online.

To promote our practice on social media, I would start by creating engaging content that highlights our services and expertise. This could include blog posts about common injuries or conditions we treat, videos demonstrating exercises to help improve mobility, and patient testimonials. I would also use targeted ads to reach people in our local area who may be interested in our services.

Additionally, I would create a presence on popular platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. On these sites, I would post regularly to keep followers updated on new treatments, events, and promotions. Finally, I would monitor comments and messages from users so that I can respond quickly and provide helpful information.”

12. Describe your experience with billing and insurance processing.

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with billing and insurance processing, which are important skills for a physical therapy assistant. Use examples from previous work experiences to describe how you handled billing and insurance processing tasks.

Example: “I have extensive experience with billing and insurance processing for physical therapy services. I am well-versed in the various codes used to bill for different types of treatments, as well as the regulations that govern how these codes are applied. I also understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to submitting claims and ensuring that all paperwork is completed correctly.

In my current role, I am responsible for verifying insurance coverage, obtaining preauthorizations, and entering patient information into the system. I work closely with patients and their families to ensure they understand their benefits and any out-of-pocket costs associated with treatment. I also stay up-to-date on changes in insurance policies and regulations so that I can provide accurate advice to our clients.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are the best candidate for this role. Focus on your skills and abilities that match what the employer is looking for in an assistant.

Example: “I believe I am an ideal candidate for this position because of my extensive experience in physical therapy. I have been a Physical Therapy Assistant for the past five years and during that time, I have gained a wealth of knowledge about the field. I am familiar with all aspects of patient care, from assessment to treatment planning and implementation.

In addition to my experience, I also possess strong interpersonal skills which are essential when working with patients. I am able to build rapport quickly and create a comfortable environment for them to receive their treatments. My ability to connect with people on a personal level allows me to provide compassionate care while still maintaining professionalism.

Furthermore, I am highly organized and detail-oriented. I understand the importance of accurate documentation and keeping up with paperwork. I am confident that I can handle any administrative tasks associated with this role.”

14. Which computer programs or software have you used in the physical therapy field?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your computer skills and how you apply them in the workplace. If you have experience using specific programs, mention those that are relevant to the job description.

Example: “I have extensive experience using computer programs and software in the physical therapy field. I’m proficient with EMRs, such as Epic, Cerner, and Allscripts, which are used to document patient progress and treatments. I also have experience with scheduling systems like Scheduling Manager and Therapy Source, which allow me to easily manage patient appointments. In addition, I’m familiar with exercise tracking software, such as Fitbit and MyFitnessPal, which can be used to monitor patients’ activity levels. Finally, I’m comfortable working with billing software, such as QuickBooks and Medisoft, to ensure accurate billing for services provided.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of patient education?

Patient education is an important part of physical therapy. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your communication skills and how you teach patients about their treatment plan. Use examples from past experiences to explain what you think is the most important aspect of patient education, and try to focus on the importance of following a treatment plan.

Example: “I believe that the most important aspect of patient education is providing clear and concise instructions to patients about their treatment plan. It is essential for physical therapy assistants to be able to explain the benefits of a particular exercise or activity, as well as provide detailed instructions on how to properly perform it. In addition, I think it’s important to ensure that the patient understands why they are doing certain exercises and activities, so they can be motivated to continue with their treatment plan. Finally, I think it’s important to make sure that the patient has realistic expectations regarding their recovery process and timeline. By providing clear and comprehensive information, physical therapy assistants can help empower patients to take an active role in their own health and wellbeing.”

16. How often do you think a patient should come in for physical therapy sessions?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you might interact with patients and their unique needs. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of regular physical therapy sessions, as well as your ability to communicate this information to patients.

Example: “When it comes to physical therapy sessions, I believe that frequency should be tailored to the individual patient’s needs. Generally speaking, a patient should come in for physical therapy sessions as often as necessary to achieve their goals. Depending on the severity of the injury or condition, this could mean coming in once or twice a week or even more frequently.

I always strive to provide my patients with the best care possible and will work closely with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that meets their specific needs. This includes determining how often they should come in for physical therapy sessions based on their progress and any changes in their condition. My goal is to ensure that each patient receives the right amount of care so that they can reach their desired outcome in the most effective way possible.”

17. There is a new treatment method that hasn’t been approved by the FDA. Your patient wants to try it. What do you do?

This question is designed to test your ethics and values. It’s important that you are honest with the patient about what you can do for them, but it’s also important that you don’t give them false hope. You should explain why the treatment isn’t approved by the FDA and how it might be dangerous if used improperly.

Example: “When a patient expresses interest in a new treatment method that hasn’t been approved by the FDA, I always take the time to explain the risks and benefits of the treatment. I make sure they understand what is involved and any potential side effects. If they still want to pursue the treatment, I would then discuss it with their physician or primary care provider to ensure it is safe for them to do so. I also make sure to document all conversations and treatments in the patient’s medical record. Finally, I would continue to monitor the patient closely and adjust the treatment plan as needed.”

18. What do you think is the most important quality that a physical therapy assistant should possess?

This question is an opportunity to show the interviewer that you possess the qualities they are looking for in a physical therapy assistant. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what skills and abilities helped you succeed as a physical therapy assistant.

Example: “I believe that the most important quality for a physical therapy assistant to possess is empathy. Empathy allows us to understand our patients’ needs and feelings, which in turn helps us provide them with better care. It also enables us to build relationships with our patients, which can help create an environment of trust and understanding. Furthermore, it allows us to be more patient-centered, as we are able to put ourselves in their shoes and truly understand what they are going through. Finally, having empathy makes us more compassionate and caring towards our patients, which can make all the difference when it comes to providing effective treatment.”

19. Have you ever had to deal with an angry or unhappy patient? How did you handle the situation?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether you have the ability to diffuse a situation. In your answer, try to show that you are able to remain calm in tense situations and use your communication skills to resolve conflicts with patients or other healthcare professionals.

Example: “Yes, I have had to deal with an angry or unhappy patient. In such situations, my first priority is always to ensure the safety of both myself and the patient. After that, I take a few moments to listen to their concerns and try to understand why they are feeling frustrated. Once I am able to identify the source of their frustration, I work to find a solution that will address their needs in a respectful manner. I also make sure to remain professional at all times, even when the situation becomes difficult. Finally, I strive to maintain a positive attitude throughout the interaction so that the patient feels heard and respected.”

20. Describe your experience with setting up and maintaining exercise equipment.

This question can help interviewers understand your experience with physical therapy equipment and how you use it. You can answer this question by describing a time when you set up or maintained exercise equipment, such as treadmills, elliptical machines or weightlifting equipment.

Example: “I have extensive experience setting up and maintaining exercise equipment. I am well-versed in the safety protocols for using and storing exercise equipment, as well as the proper techniques for assembling and disassembling machines. In my current role as a Physical Therapy Assistant, I regularly set up and maintain various types of exercise equipment to ensure that patients are able to safely use them during their physical therapy sessions.

In addition, I have also been responsible for ordering new pieces of equipment when needed, as well as troubleshooting any issues with existing machines. I understand the importance of keeping all equipment in good working order so that it can be used effectively by patients. I take great pride in ensuring that all exercise equipment is properly maintained and functioning correctly at all times.”

21. Tell me about a time when you assisted in developing a treatment plan for a complex injury.

This question can help interviewers understand your ability to work independently and develop treatment plans. Use examples from previous experience in which you developed a plan for an injury or condition that was more complex than others you’ve worked with.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to assist in developing a treatment plan for a complex injury. The patient was a professional athlete who suffered an ACL tear, as well as several other ligament and tendon tears in their knee. My role was to help create a comprehensive rehabilitation program that would allow them to return to their sport at peak performance.

The first step was to assess the extent of the injury and determine which areas needed the most attention. After this assessment, I worked with the physical therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that incorporated both traditional physical therapy techniques and more advanced treatments such as laser therapy and stem cell injections. We also created a timeline for progress and set goals for each stage of recovery.

Throughout the process, I monitored the patient’s progress closely and adjusted the treatment plan accordingly. This included making sure they were following the prescribed exercises, providing feedback on their form, and helping them stay motivated. In the end, the patient was able to make a full recovery and returned to their sport without any further complications.”

22. Are there any particular areas of physical therapy that you specialize in?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your skills and experience. It’s important to highlight any unique or specialized skills you have that can benefit the physical therapy clinic.

Example: “Yes, I specialize in orthopedic physical therapy. My experience includes working with patients who have suffered from sports injuries, joint replacements, and post-operative rehabilitation. I am also knowledgeable in therapeutic exercise, manual therapy techniques, and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation.

I believe my expertise in these areas makes me an ideal candidate for this position. I am passionate about helping my patients reach their goals and improve their quality of life through physical therapy. I take pride in providing individualized care that is tailored to each patient’s needs.

In addition, I stay up to date on the latest research and developments in the field of physical therapy so that I can provide the best possible care to my patients. I am confident that my knowledge and skills will be a great asset to your team.”

23. Explain how you would develop rapport with a new patient.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to connect with patients. Your answer should include a specific example of how you developed rapport with a new patient in the past, as well as an explanation of what steps you took to create that connection.

Example: “Building rapport with a new patient is an important part of my job as a Physical Therapy Assistant. I believe that the best way to do this is to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for them. First, I would introduce myself and explain what I will be doing during their session. This helps to put the patient at ease and shows them that they can trust me.

I also like to ask questions about their condition and lifestyle so I can better understand how to tailor their treatment plan. Asking open-ended questions allows me to get to know the patient on a more personal level and build a relationship of mutual respect. Finally, I make sure to provide positive reinforcement throughout the session to keep the patient motivated and focused on achieving their goals.”

24. In what ways have you gone above and beyond to ensure successful patient outcomes?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you approach your work and whether you are a team player. Your answer should highlight your willingness to do more than what is required of you, as well as your ability to collaborate with others.

Example: “As a Physical Therapy Assistant, I strive to go above and beyond for my patients. My goal is always to ensure successful patient outcomes. To achieve this, I take the time to get to know each of my patients on an individual level so that I can better understand their needs and provide tailored treatments. I also stay up-to-date with the latest research and techniques in physical therapy so that I can offer the best care possible. Furthermore, I am proactive in communicating with other healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care to ensure everyone is on the same page and working together towards the same goals. Finally, I make sure to follow up with my patients after treatment to track progress and ensure they are continuing to improve.”

25. How do you stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices?

Employers want to know that you are committed to your career and continuously learning. They may ask this question to see if you have a plan for staying up-to-date on the latest trends in physical therapy assistant work. In your answer, explain how you stay current with industry news and research new techniques or technologies.

Example: “Staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices is essential for any Physical Therapy Assistant. I make sure to attend relevant conferences, workshops, and seminars whenever possible. This allows me to learn from the experts in the field and stay informed of current developments. In addition, I read professional journals and publications regularly to ensure that I am aware of the latest research and techniques. Finally, I keep an eye out for new technology and products related to physical therapy so that I can incorporate them into my practice if appropriate. By staying abreast of the latest information, I am able to provide the highest quality care to my patients.”