About the Role
The Umgeni Specialised Psychiatric Hospital is seeking a dedicated Physiotherapy Technician who will play a vital role in providing essential therapeutic services to mental health care users. Based in Howick, this position allows you to be part of a compassionate team that makes a tangible difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges. By delivering physiotherapy services tailored to each patient, you will contribute significantly to their recovery and overall well-being, embodying the spirit of public service in South Africa.
In this role, you will be responsible for conducting basic assessments and implementing treatment plans in collaboration with registered physiotherapists. This position is crucial as it not only helps improve the quality of life for patients but also fosters a supportive environment that encourages rehabilitation and personal growth. Your work will ensure that patients receive the highest standards of care, furthering the hospital’s commitment to excellence in mental health services.
About the Department
The Umgeni Specialised Psychiatric Hospital is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care services, focusing on the rehabilitation and support of individuals with psychiatric conditions. With a mission to promote mental health and well-being, the hospital plays a crucial role in the community by offering specialized treatment and fostering an environment of understanding and care. Working here means being part of a team that is not only committed to professional excellence but is also passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.
What You’ll Do
- Provide limited physiotherapy services to mental health care users under professional standards.
- Conduct basic assessments and implement treatment plans in consultation with registered physiotherapists.
- Educate patients on using assistive devices and support them during treatment sessions.
- Maintain and monitor physical resources, assisting with inventory and stock management.
- Capture daily statistics of your caseload and submit timely reports to your supervisor.
- Participate in health promotion initiatives and in-service training at both institutional and community levels.
- Engage in quality improvement projects and attend departmental meetings to enhance service delivery.
- Represent the physiotherapy department on relevant committees as assigned by your supervisor.
What You’ll Need
- A minimum of Standard 8 (Grade 10) and a Physiotherapy Assistant diploma or a 2-year Physiotherapy Technician diploma.
- Registration with HPCSA as a Physiotherapy Technician.
- Knowledge of physiotherapy policies, practices, and ethical standards.
- Strong clinical skills in physiotherapy with a basic understanding of therapeutic procedures.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, along with effective time management and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and with limited resources.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to new challenges while maintaining a positive attitude.
How to Apply
Applications quoting the relevant reference UMG 07/2026 should be directed to Mr. VM Mvelase, Chief Executive Officer of Umgeni Specialised Psychiatric Hospital, as detailed below.
Requirements
Standard 8 (Grade 10).Physiotherapy Assistant diploma Physiotherapy Technician upgrade or 2-year Physiotherapy Technician diploma.
HPCSA registration as a Physiotherapy Technician.
Knowledge And Skills: Sound knowledge of all facets of physiotherapy related policies and practices as well as other relevant hospital and Department of Health policies and practices, sound knowledge of HPCSA guidelines and Code of Conduct.
Sound knowledge of clinical Physiotherapy theory, practice and ethics, therapeutic procedures and use of therapeutic equipment.
Knowledge of the condition and treatment of Intellectual Disability with associated physical disabilities.
Good clinical skills in Physiotherapy within basic scope of practice as a Physiotherapy Technician.
Good verbal and written communication skills, time management and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work under pressure and within limited resources.
Special ability to interact with patients with intellectual disability and associated physical disabilities and behavioural problems.
Basic ability to co-ordinate, plan and organize with minimal guidance.
Willing to learn and develop, open to correction and guidance.
Job Duties
Provide a limited Physiotherapy service to Mental Health Care Users according to physiotherapy professional standards of practice and within scope of practice.Conduct basic assessments, carry out treatment in consultation with a registered Physiotherapist and provide feedback regarding patient progress.
Educate and train patients on use of assistive devices.
Assist physiotherapists with treatment sessions and preparing treatment areas.
Be responsible for the maintenance and monitoring of physical resources, assist with monthly stock take, assist in maintaining a neat and organized stockroom.
To perform administrative functions as directed by supervisor.
Ensure daily capturing of statistics of own caseload and timeous submission to supervisor.
Compile reports as required.
Assist with relevant clinics as delegated.
Participate in health promotion and education and in-service training at institutional and community level.
Participate in activities directed at improving the quality of physiotherapy service delivery including audits and implementation of QIPs.
Participate in monthly departmental meetings.
Serve as a physiotherapy representative on various relevant committees as allocated by supervisor.
Ensure attendance of relevant training to obtain the number of CEUs determined by HPCSA to ensure continued HPCSA membership and to ensure 253 personal and professional growth and development.
Maintain healthy professional relationships with clients and staff.
