6 Reasons for Studying Physical Therapy
Photo credit: Image by Johannes Kirchherr from Pixabay
Physical therapists play an essential role in the healthcare industry. Not only do they treat patients with various chronic health conditions, but they also educate them on how to stay healthy, prevent injuries, and enhance their quality of life. If you plan to pursue a career in this dynamic field, here are six reasons that might help solidify your decision.
Job security
Job security is one of the most significant incentives for becoming a physical therapist. The demand for physical therapists has remarkably grown over the years and is expected to increase even further. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook of physical therapists is estimated to grow by 21% from 2020 to 2030, which is notably faster than the average of all professions.
High earning potential
Another career perk of becoming a physical therapist is high earning potential. Your salary as a physical therapist depends on several factors, such as your skills, certifications, education, and years of work experience. In the United States, the salary range for a physical therapist falls between $87,701 and $102,501, as per Salary.com. Aside from being well-paid, you are also eligible for employee benefits, including healthcare and retirement.
Travel opportunities
Many companies provide their employees the chance to travel for work as traveling physical therapists. Compared to conventional in-house physical therapists, traveling physical therapists have higher salaries and financial incentives, making it a more attractive career option. Traveling physical therapists can also accelerate their careers faster since they are continually exposed to a more diverse and broader range of patients.
Meaningful patient relationships
One of the most significant benefits of being a physical therapist is becoming a source of comfort for individuals struggling with pain. Unlike other medical professionals, physical therapists work directly and individually with their patients, enabling them to form genuine and lasting relationships. Physical therapists also have a greater sense of job satisfaction since they have a chance to make a significant difference in their patients' lives.
Variety of work settings
Compared with other professionals, physical therapists have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, locations, and environments. They can choose to work in a local wellness center, clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, private practices, schools, and fitness facilities. Aside from working internationally, physical therapists also have the option to either work in rural or urban areas, allowing them to treat different patients with multiple health conditions, which can help in their professional development.
Flexibility
Since most medical professionals in the health industry have unpredictable schedules, they often struggle to balance their personal and work lives. As a physical therapist, you don't need to sacrifice important life events since you can work full-time, part-time, or per diem, reducing the chance of work burnout and job discontent.
If you want to work in a flexible and dynamic industry and make a difference in the lives of others, a career in physical therapy may suit you well. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons, take note of the above reasons, and follow your passion.