Are you looking for an active and diverse job, have a genuine interest in people and interested in health and science? If so, a career in physiotherapy might well suit you.
A physiotherapist is a health professional who assesses and treats clients and patients who are suffering physical problems caused by either disease, injury, illness or ageing. Physiotherapists diagnose and treat disorders and conditions affecting movement in order to maximise a patient’s mobility and physical independence. With a range of various non-surgical procedures, they aim to lessen pain, improve movement and flexibility and restore functionality as much as possible to improve the client’s quality of life.
Physiotherapists may treat a broad range of disorders affecting the musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory and nervous system. In addition to this, physiotherapists may also educate clients on the best way to perform physical activities in order to reduce the chances of sustaining an injury.
If you are looking how to become a physiotherapist, you are in luck as there are several paths to choose from. If you are looking to work in a support role such as a physiotherapy assistant, then you should consider studying the Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43015).
An Allied Health Assistant has an extremely hands-on role, assisting Allied Health professionals such as Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist and Community Rehabilitation Therapist) with the health care plans of their clients.
A treatment plan is set out by the Allied Health professional to support the diagnosis of the client and patient. The primary role of the Allied Health Assistant is to follow up the treatment plan with the client to assist in their recovery and to support the client with their health care to increase their mobility, independence and their ability to care for themselves.
The Allied Health Assistant will work to provide a high quality of patient therapy and support in order to improve the client’s overall well-being. An Allied Health Assistant can also help minimise the risk of complications in chronic conditions or following illness or injury.
A physiotherapist is required to have:
The expected salary of a physiotherapist varies depending on their amount of experience and level of qualifications as well as on the size and type of their employer. Physiotherapists can expect to earn a starting salary of $50,500 and a senior salary of $75,000 with an average salary of $62,500.
There is currently a high demand for physiotherapists, allowing the chance to work in a variety of healthcare settings or within the education and research industry. Many physiotherapists usually work in hospitals or physiotherapy clinics, though some may visit clients at their homes or workplace. Professional sporting teams also employ physiotherapists, though entry into these positions is highly competitive.
Most physiotherapists work regular hours during the week. Those working with sporting teams will be required to work during the team’s training session and games, which usually means working evening and weekends.
A career in physiotherapy can lead to a highly rewarding and fulfilling career working with a range of different people of all ages. You will be able to help your clients to achieve the highest possible degree of physical activity, participation and overall an improved quality of life.
The Victorian Government announced in 2019, that it would be offering 50+ Free TAFE courses and pre-apprenticeship pathways for eligible students. The great news is that many of those included in the Free TAFE scheme fall under the health sector. Not only can you start working towards a career you’ll find incredibly satisfying, but you can do it free from student debt.
Kangan Institute currently offers the Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (HLT43015) as a Free TAFE course.
