Questions to Ask a Physical Therapist in an Interview
Strategic interview questions to evaluate PT roles, workplace culture, patient care philosophy, and career growth opportunities.
1What is the typical patient caseload per day?
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What is the typical patient caseload per day?
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Why this works
High caseloads may limit quality care time and lead to burnout.
2What is the treatment time allocated per patient?
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What is the treatment time allocated per patient?
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Why this works
30-45 minute sessions allow thorough care; shorter suggests productivity pressure.
3What patient populations and conditions will I primarily treat?
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What patient populations and conditions will I primarily treat?
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Why this works
Ensures match with your interests and experience level.
4What continuing education opportunities and support does the practice offer?
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What continuing education opportunities and support does the practice offer?
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Why this works
Shows commitment to professional development and staying current.
5How is performance evaluated and what metrics matter most?
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How is performance evaluated and what metrics matter most?
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Why this works
Reveals whether quality of care or productivity/revenue drive evaluations.
6What is the documentation system and how much time does it require?
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What is the documentation system and how much time does it require?
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Why this works
Excessive documentation cuts into patient care time and life outside work.
7Do PTs work with support staff like PTAs or aides?
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Do PTs work with support staff like PTAs or aides?
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Why this works
Adequate support allows PTs to focus on evaluation and complex treatment.
8What is the mentorship or onboarding process for new therapists?
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What is the mentorship or onboarding process for new therapists?
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Why this works
Strong onboarding supports success, especially for new grads.
9How much autonomy do therapists have in treatment planning?
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How much autonomy do therapists have in treatment planning?
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Why this works
Professional autonomy is crucial for job satisfaction and evidence-based practice.
10What insurance companies do you work with, and how does that affect care?
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What insurance companies do you work with, and how does that affect care?
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Why this works
Insurance restrictions can limit treatment options and create administrative burden.
11What is the work-life balance like, and is there flexibility in scheduling?
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What is the work-life balance like, and is there flexibility in scheduling?
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Why this works
Demanding schedules lead to burnout; flexibility supports long-term sustainability.
12How does the practice stay current with evidence-based practice?
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How does the practice stay current with evidence-based practice?
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Why this works
Commitment to research and best practices indicates quality focus.
13What is the turnover rate for physical therapists here?
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What is the turnover rate for physical therapists here?
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Why this works
High turnover signals workplace issues; low suggests good environment.
14Are there opportunities for specialization or career advancement?
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Are there opportunities for specialization or career advancement?
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Why this works
Growth paths matter for long-term career satisfaction.
15What is the philosophy on patient care and outcomes?
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What is the philosophy on patient care and outcomes?
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Why this works
Alignment with practice values affects daily job satisfaction.
16How are conflicts or disagreements about patient care handled?
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How are conflicts or disagreements about patient care handled?
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Why this works
Professional environment supports healthy discussion and collaboration.
17What equipment and treatment modalities are available?
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What equipment and treatment modalities are available?
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Why this works
Adequate resources enable effective treatment across conditions.
18How does the practice involve patients in goal-setting and treatment planning?
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How does the practice involve patients in goal-setting and treatment planning?
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Why this works
Patient-centered care improves outcomes and satisfaction.
19What are the biggest challenges facing the practice right now?
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What are the biggest challenges facing the practice right now?
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Why this works
Honesty about challenges shows transparency and gives realistic expectations.
20Why did the last person in this role leave?
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Why did the last person in this role leave?
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Why this works
Reveals red flags or normal transitions; important context for the position.
How to Use These Questions
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
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