About this role
Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.
About this role
The Physical Therapist is responsible for providing high quality rehabilitation services for pre and post-operative surgical patients and Crew. You will have direct patient participation in selected tasks to restore, reinforce, and enhance performance; facilitate the learning of skills and functions essential for adaptation and productivity, correct pathology, and promote and maintain health.
What you will contribute
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Evaluate patient’s emotional and physical condition at screening and on ship by performing manual muscle testing, Range Of Motion and other tests as needed
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Coordinate and participate in the planning, implementation and evaluation of patient treatment plans and goals, utilizing selected physical therapy procedures including physical agents, therapeutic exercise and gait and functional training
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Discuss and document treatment goals and therapy with patients, family and staff
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Evaluate patients during treatment to determine effectiveness and safety, modifying treatment plan as indicated
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Assist with fabrication of orthotics and other supports
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Serve as a consultant to physicians and nurses regarding Physical Therapy services
For This Role, You Will Need
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Registered Physical Therapist with active license and a minimum of two years’ experience
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Experienced with surgical patients preferred, including orthopedics and burn reconstruction, as well as experience in musculoskeletal outpatients
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Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal)
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Fluent in English
The experience of a lifetime is calling.
More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.
At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.
Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve — and your own.