Telehealth Physical Therapy Jobs: Opportunities, Requirements & Salary Guide

The telehealth physical therapy sector has experienced explosive growth over the past three years. As healthcare systems and patients increasingly embrace remote care, opportunities for rehabilitation professionals have expanded dramatically. Whether you’re a licensed physical therapist seeking flexibility or a physical therapy assistant looking to transition to remote work, understanding the landscape of available positions is essential for career planning.

The shift toward digital health has transformed how rehabilitation services are delivered, creating unprecedented job opportunities in this space. This guide explores the types of positions available, qualifications needed, major employers hiring, and what you can expect in terms of compensation and work environment.

What Types of Telehealth Physical Therapy Positions Are Currently Available?

Telehealth physical therapy employers offer diverse employment models. Clinical therapist positions form the core of available roles, where licensed PTs conduct assessments and treatment sessions via video. Supervisory and management positions oversee clinical teams and quality assurance. Specialized roles focus on specific populations—such as post-operative orthopedic patients, athletes, or elderly patients managing chronic conditions. Contract and per-diem positions provide flexibility, while full-time positions offer stability and benefits packages including health insurance and retirement plans.

What Qualifications and Licenses Are Required?

A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and active state licensure are fundamental requirements for PT positions. Many telehealth employers require or prefer the Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS) credential. Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) with certification can access certain positions, particularly in support and supervision roles. State licensing requirements vary significantly—some states allow multi-state practice through telehealth compacts, while others require separate licensure in each state where you treat patients. Understanding online doctor visit regulations and credentialing requirements is crucial before applying.

Which Companies Are Hiring for Telehealth Physical Therapy?

Dedicated telehealth platforms have emerged as primary employers in this space. Sword Health, Hinge Health, and similar companies focus exclusively on remote rehabilitation services. Traditional healthcare systems including major hospital networks now operate telehealth PT departments. Insurance companies and workers’ compensation networks increasingly hire PTs for remote patient management. Independent practices and boutique clinics are transitioning to hybrid models. AFC Telehealth represents the growing network of affiliated providers expanding remote services.

What Is the Salary Range for Telehealth Physical Therapy Jobs?

Entry-level telehealth PT positions start around $55,000-$65,000 annually. Mid-career therapists with 3-7 years experience earn $70,000-$85,000. Senior clinicians and those in supervisory roles command $85,000-$110,000 or more. Contract positions often pay higher hourly rates ($40-$65/hour) but lack benefits. Geographic location, specialization, and employer type significantly impact compensation. While telehealth salaries may be slightly lower than traditional clinic positions, the eliminated commute, flexible scheduling, and reduced overhead costs often result in comparable or better net financial outcomes.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Telehealth PT Work?

Telehealth offers significant lifestyle benefits—work from anywhere, set your own schedule, and eliminate commute time. You access patients across geographic regions and serve diverse populations. However, remote work requires reliable technology infrastructure and strong digital literacy. The inability to perform manual therapy or hands-on palpation limits assessment capabilities. Patient engagement can be challenging in virtual settings, and some patients prefer in-person care. Healthcare digital transformation continues creating solutions to these challenges, but they remain real considerations.

What Skills Make You Competitive for Telehealth PT Jobs?

Beyond clinical credentials, successful telehealth PTs demonstrate exceptional communication skills and patient education abilities. Proficiency with video conferencing platforms, EHR systems, and digital health tools is essential. Self-motivation and time management are critical for remote roles with minimal supervision. Clinical experience in orthopedics, sports medicine, or geriatrics strengthens applications. Employers value therapists who can creatively adapt traditional techniques to remote formats and troubleshoot technology issues independently. Certification in telehealth-specific competencies increasingly differentiates candidates in competitive job markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need multi-state licensure for telehealth PT jobs?

Check with your state’s physical therapy licensing board and specific employers about their multi-state requirements before applying.

Can physical therapy assistants work in telehealth roles?

PTA telehealth roles focus on support functions rather than independent patient treatment.

What technology do I need to work in telehealth PT?

Invest in professional-grade equipment to ensure reliable patient interactions and compliance with healthcare privacy standards like HIPAA.