Physical Therapist, Start of Care
Nascentia Health · Syracuse, New York · Posted Jun 25, 2026 · $75,250 to $87,139 a year
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Physical Therapist – Start of Care (SOC) | Adult Homecare I Onondaga County
Delivering Personalized Rehabilitation Excellence from the First Visit • Be the First. Set the Direction. Make the Difference • Up to $12,500 Sign-On Bonus* • Fleet Vehicle Program Available
As a Start of Care Physical Therapist, you play a critical role in launching a patient’s homecare journey. You complete comprehensive initial assessments, establish the physical therapy plan of care, and ensure the interdisciplinary team has a clear clinical picture to guide treatment moving forward.
At Nascentia Health, SOC therapists enjoy a high level of autonomy, modern mobile technology, and the full support of an experienced office-based clinical team. You’ll focus on thorough, high-quality start-of-care visits, document efficiently in the field, and move confidently through your day knowing your clinical judgment shapes patient outcomes from day one. You’ll provide one-on-one care to adult patients in their homes, supported by a collaborative team, and a structure designed to promote work-life balance.
Is This You?
- You’re confident, decisive, and comfortable leading the initial patient’s visit
- You enjoy comprehensive assessments and setting a strong clinical foundation
- You make patients feel at ease while gathering detailed clinical information
- You communicate clearly and understand the importance of precise documentation
- You value independence in your work, with reliable support when needed
About Us
- Nascentia Health is a leader in post-acute and long-term community-based care
- We deliver innovative, patient-centered care where patients want to be at home
- We support our clinicians with the tools, technology, and teamwork needed to succeed
- Nascentia Health was ranked the 13th Best Company to Work for in New York for 2025!
What You’ll Do as a Start of Care Physical Therapist
Provide high-quality, comprehensive physical therapy assessments and establish patient-centered plans of care during start-of-care visits.
Your responsibilities include:
- Determine patient appropriateness for homecare services
- Perform thorough start-of-care and comprehensive assessments
- Develop individualized physical therapy plans of care using an interdisciplinary approach
- Communicate findings, recommendations, and plans to physicians and the care team
- Ensure documentation meets all quality and regulatory standards, including:
o OASIS completion in accordance with CMS guidelines
o Clear, concise, and timely clinical documentation
- Coordinate internal and external resources to support patient goals
- Maintain established productivity expectations
Care Coordination & Team Collaboration
- Identify patient needs and initiate referrals to additional services as appropriate
- Report on findings and plans to the Case Manager, Care Team, and Clinical Supervisor
- Collaborate with supervisors and designated staff to manage patients efficiently
- Develop care plans for paraprofessional staff as applicable and:
o Provide oversight and supervision of home health aides
o Communicate relevant care information to the home health aide department
What We’re Looking For!
- Current New York State Physical Therapy license
- Registered with NY State and APTA (as applicable)
- Valid driver’s license, auto insurance, and reliable vehicle (Fleet Program available)
- Minimum one year of home health experience required
- Strong assessment, critical thinking, and independent decision-making skills
- Proficient computer skills, including electronic medical records
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- OASIS Certification or willingness to obtain within one year of hire
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit or stand for long periods during work day
- Ability to perform tasks involving physical activity (including but not limited to): Pushing/pulling on average 50 lbs. with a max of 150 lbs.; lifting/carrying on average 25 lbs. with a max of 50 lbs.; patient transfers, extensive bending, standing, kneeling, walking in various weather conditions and ability to go up and down stairs.
- Ability to drive in ALL weather conditions (rain, sleet, snow, wind).
- Visual/hearing ability sufficient to comprehend written or verbal communication
- Ability to use telephone and communicate over the phone
- Frequently uses a laptop computer to enter orders and obtain product information
- Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Category I - Employee has tasks that routinely involve exposure or potential exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues.
Compensation & Benefits:
Competitive Salary [This position is an S03 exempt position with a min-max rate of: $75,250- $87,138.92/annually]with:
- $12,500 Sign-On Bonus
- Retention Bonuses
- Internal Mentoring Program
- 401K with generous Employer match
- On-Site Gym (free for all employees)
- Flexible Work Schedule
- Medical, Dental, Vision plans
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Part…