Lead Physiotherapist at 21 Search Ltd

Job Summary

• The Lead Physiotherapist is a senior role responsible for overseeing the delivery of high-quality physiotherapy services in a multispecialty hospital.
• This role combines clinical expertise, team leadership, and administrative oversight to ensure optimal patient care and the professional development of the physiotherapy team.
• The Lead Physiotherapist will drive clinical excellence, develop treatment protocols, and foster a collaborative, patient-centered approach.
• Additionally, the role requires the management of the physiotherapy department, resource allocation, and the facilitation of effective communication between the department and other medical units.

Core Working Relationships/Key Stakeholders:
Internal on-site:

Medical Director, Physiotherapy Team, Nursing Department, Inpatient and Outpatient Services, Administrative and Finance Department, HR Department, Other Allied Health Professionals

External:

• Patients and Families, Consultants and External Specialists, Health Insurance Providers (HMOs), Professional Bodies and Licensing Authorities, etc.

Accountabilities:

• Shall work with and under the supervision of the Medical Director

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and manage the team of physiotherapists, ensuring effective workload distribution and continuous professional development.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence within the physiotherapy department.
• Set goals, evaluate team performance, and identify areas for improvement and training.
• Oversee all clinical treatments, ensuring best practices are followed according to hospital standards and professional guidelines.
• Handle complex cases and provide specialized treatment plans in consultation with other healthcare professionals.

• Ensure that all patient treatment records are accurately maintained, up-to-date, and compliant with medical protocols and privacy regulations.
• Develop, review, and implement physiotherapy protocols and policies in line with industry best practices.
• Monitor patient outcomes and initiate improvement plans to enhance service delivery and patient satisfaction.
• Introduce and integrate new physiotherapy techniques, treatments, and technologies.
• Oversee the acquisition and maintenance of physiotherapy equipment and tools, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Manage departmental budgets, tracking expenses, and liaising with the Finance department for procurement needs.
• Work closely with medical consultants, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals to develop interdisciplinary treatment plans for patients.
• Participate in case discussions and contribute physiotherapy expertise to treatment planning.
• Lead by example in delivering high-quality physiotherapy care, conducting patient assessments, diagnosing conditions, and implementing effective treatment plans.
• Engage with patients and their families to explain treatment objectives, progress, and expected outcomes, ensuring transparency and trust.
• Prioritize patient safety and comfort during all interventions and treatments.
• Ensure the department is compliant with all regulatory requirements, health and safety protocols, and hospital policies.
• Keep the department prepared for internal audits, quality assessments, and external accreditation processes.
• Organize and facilitate continuous professional development sessions for the physiotherapy team and broader clinical staff.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in physiotherapy and healthcare, ensuring team members are aligned with modern practices.
• Provide regular reports on the performance of the department, patient outcomes, and service delivery to the Medical Director.
• Address any critical issues related to staff, patient care, or operational challenges and propose solutions to the management.

Requirements
Qualifications and Competencies:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Physiotherapy (BPT).
• Postgraduate qualification (Master’s degree in Physiotherapy or a related field) is highly preferred.
• Licensed by the relevant regulatory body. Membership in professional associations (e.g., Nigerian Society of Physiotherapy) is an added advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8-10 years of clinical experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership or supervisory role within a healthcare setting, preferably in a hospital.
• Proven experience working in a multidisciplinary environment and managing complex clinical cases.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and managing physiotherapy programs for both inpatient and outpatient services.
• Familiarity with the regulatory framework governing physiotherapy in Nigeria or relevant geographical regions

Key Skills:

• Strong expertise in various physiotherapy techniques, including rehabilitation, musculoskeletal treatments, post-surgical recovery, and sports injuries.
• Ability to lead and inspire a team, manage conflicts, foster professional growth, and encourage collaboration.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage effectively with patients, staff, and other medical professionals.
• Ability to analyze complex patient conditions and develop effective treatment plans while troubleshooting clinical and operational challenges.
• Exceptional ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and prioritize departmental and patient care needs.
• Familiarity with physiotherapy equipment and software for patient record-keeping and management. Knowledge of modern physiotherapy techniques and trends.

Personal Qualities:

• A commitment to personal and team development, staying current with the latest trends in physiotherapy and healthcare innovations.
• Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks and patient inquiries simultaneously.
• Efficient in scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and handling administrative duties.
• Careful attention to detail to ensure accurate information is provided and recorded.
• Sensitivity to patients' emotional and physical needs.
• Ability to remain calm and patient in stressful situations.
• Willingness to take the time to address patients' concerns thoroughly.
• Dependability in handling responsibilities and maintaining consistent performance.
• Punctuality and commitment to the role.
• Honest and ethical behavior in all interactions.
• Commitment to maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards.