Physical Therapist - Onc/Lymphedema

About Duke Department of Rehabilitation Services 

Duke Department of Rehabilitation provides comprehensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services across the lifespan, from pediatrics to older adults. With more than 30 clinic locations and over 350 providers, the department offers broad access to high-quality care throughout Durham, Iredell, Orange, Vance and Wake counties. Duke delivers advanced specialty services, including, hand therapy, aquatic therapy, women’s and pelvic health, oncology rehabilitation, sports medicine, a multidisciplinary osteoarthritis program, and more —supported by the highest number of board-certified clinical specialists in the country. Across all specialties, clinicians focus on restoring function, improving independence, and supporting long-term wellness. As a Physical Therapist in our growing outpatient network, you'll have the opportunity to build meaningful patient relationships and make a direct impact on their recovery. 

About Duke University Health System 

Duke University Health System (DUHS) is consistently ranked among the nation's best healthcare systems. In addition to multiple acute-care hospitals, Duke operates a large and geographically dispersed outpatient network of primary care and specialty care clinic locations. The system also provides home-based services through its home care and hospice program. Duke’s integrated model combines top-tier academic medicine, research, and community-based care under one system. 

Occupational Summary 

Provide specialized physical therapy services to patients with musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions, focusing on evaluation, treatment, and prevention in an outpatient clinic setting. Develop and implement evidence-based plans of care to facilitate return to work, sport, and activities of daily living. The physical therapist works within practice guidelines as defined by North Carolina state law. 

Work Performed 

• Perform comprehensive musculoskeletal evaluations, synthesize clinical findings, and develop individualized, evidence-based plans of care with measurable functional goals. 

• Implement and progress orthopedic interventions using sound clinical reasoning, adjusting treatments based on patient response. 

• Educate patients and families on diagnosis, prognosis, treatment rationale, and home exercise programs to support independence and self-management. 

• Discharge patients appropriately based on goal achievement or medical necessity, ensuring continuity of care when needed. 

• Collaborate with physicians, interdisciplinary team members, and clinic leadership to optimize outcomes and support efficient operations. 

• Maintain accurate, timely documentation and outcome measures, and communicate clearly with patients and referring providers. 

• Meet outpatient productivity expectations and effectively utilize support personnel to enhance care delivery. 

• Maintain and advance clinical competency through ongoing professional development. 

• Provide clinical education and mentorship to students and junior staff as appropriate. 

• Contribute to quality improvement and research efforts that advance orthopedic practice. 

• Participate in professional outreach and community engagement as requested, and perform other duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Strong clinical reasoning and problem-solving skills in musculoskeletal assessment and treatment 

• Proficiency in orthopaedic evaluation and evidence-based intervention techniques 

• Ability to safely perform physical job functions including pushing, pulling, lifting, and assisting patients during examination and treatment 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment 

• Commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous professional development 

• Strong organizational and time management skills 

• Ability to maintain accurate clinical documentation and data collection 

• Proficiency with electronic health records and clinic management systems 

Level Characteristics 

See Clinical Ladder administration document 

Minimum Qualifications 

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy; Master's or Clinical Doctorate in Physical Therapy preferred. 

Experience:

None beyond required education, although prior experience in outpatient orthopaedic physical therapy is preferred. 

Degrees, Licensures, Certifications:

• Current Physical Therapist license in North Carolina 

• CPR/BLS certification 

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.