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Exercise Physiologist Hospital Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

UnityPoint Health

Physical Therapist-Outpatient

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$1.5K - $2.0K/wk

... physiological and developmental impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities or other ... Educate patients and caregivers on injury prevention, home exercise programs, and wellness ...

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Exercise Physiologist Hospital information

What does an exercise physiologist do in a hospital setting?

An Exercise Physiologist in a hospital assesses, plans, and implements exercise programs for patients with chronic diseases or those recovering from surgeries and medical conditions. They work closely with physicians and other healthcare professionals to design safe and effective exercise interventions that help improve patients’ cardiovascular, metabolic, and musculoskeletal health. Their goal is to enhance patients’ physical function, manage symptoms, and support recovery, often as part of cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, or oncology care. They also educate patients about physical activity and monitor their progress to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What are some common challenges faced by exercise physiologists working in a hospital setting?

Exercise physiologists in hospitals often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse patient population with varying medical conditions, balancing individualized exercise prescriptions with safety protocols, and coordinating care with multidisciplinary teams. They must stay current on best practices for patients with complex or acute illnesses, which requires ongoing education and adaptability. Additionally, working in a fast-paced environment means prioritizing patient needs and adjusting schedules to accommodate urgent cases or unexpected changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise physiologist in a hospital setting, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Physiologist in a hospital, you need a solid background in exercise science or physiology, typically backed by a bachelor's or master's degree and relevant certifications like ACSM-EP or CEP. Familiarity with cardiopulmonary testing equipment, EHR systems, and rehabilitation software is important for daily tasks. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to educate and motivate patients are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies enable effective patient assessment, safe and personalized exercise prescription, and improved recovery outcomes in clinical environments.

What is the difference between Exercise Physiologist Hospital vs Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist?

AspectExercise Physiologist HospitalCardiac Rehabilitation Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Exercise Physiology, certification (e.g., ACSM)Similar credentials, often with additional certification in cardiac rehab
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centersCardiac rehab programs, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Employer & IndustryHealthcare facilities, hospitalsHospitals, specialized cardiac rehab centers
Job FocusDeveloping exercise programs for various health conditionsDesigning and supervising exercise for cardiac patients

Both roles require similar credentials and work in healthcare settings, but Exercise Physiologists have a broader focus, while Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialists focus specifically on cardiac patients. The choice depends on your specialization interest within healthcare.

Is there a demand for exercise physiologists?

Exercise physiologists are in growing demand due to increasing awareness of chronic disease management and preventive health. They work in hospitals, clinics, and wellness centers, often requiring certification and knowledge of exercise testing and rehabilitation. Job prospects are strong, especially in healthcare settings focused on patient recovery and chronic condition management.

Where do exercise physiologists make the most money?

Exercise physiologists tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater healthcare funding, such as metropolitan areas with advanced medical facilities. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and working in specialized settings like hospitals or sports medicine clinics.

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs in Iowa?

For Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Exercise Physiologist Hospital job openings:

Exercise Physiologist Hospital jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Physiologist Hospital job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 43% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Physical Therapist (PT) Hospital Setting

Mary Greeley Medical Center

Boone, IA • On-site

$1.6K - $2.1K/wk

Per diem

Re-posted 19 days ago

Mary Greeley Medical Center rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

748th of 1,065 rated hospitals

Job description

  • Position Summary
    • Under general direction, develops and implements physical therapy treatment programs in the treatment of neonatal through geriatric patients. Plans treatment programs designed to relieve pain, improve function, and return to maximum level of performance based on individual patient needs identified by thorough evaluation. Provides instruction to patients, families, and caregivers. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary treatment team. Ensures all actions taken in carrying out responsibilities support patient centered care.
  • Position Responsibilities
    • Unit Specific Position Responsibilities
      • Performs thorough biomechanical evaluations. Integrates and interprets evaluation findings and history. This evaluation may be administered independently or under referral from a physician or dentist.
      • Develops and administers individual treatment plans for physical rehabilitation.
      • Designs home treatment programs, counsels and educates patient, family, and/or caregiver on care and home treatment programs. May contact physical therapists at other facilities to report patient's status and progress at the time of discharge.
      • Develops thorough documentation of initial patient evaluations, daily interim reports, discharge summaries, staffing reports, home exercise programs and reports to physicians.
      • Makes recommendations for new equipment, assists in new program development, coordination and implementation.
      • Makes recommendations and assists in and/or performs fitting of adaptive equipment and orthopedic appliances.
      • Cleans, maintains, prepares, adjusts and operates physical therapy and rehabilitation equipment.
      • Collaborates with the Medical Staff, Occupational Therapy, Nursing, Social Services and other health care personnel in coordinating overall patient care program and schedules.
      • Supervises activities and directs physical therapy assistants, technicians, and aides in patient care programs.
      • Consistent with the Iowa Administrative Rules for Licensure of Physical Therapists and Physical Therapist Assistants [Chapter 200.6 (6)] participates in care with direct patient contact as follows:
        • Hospital, Skilled Nursing, and Nursing Home: Minimum of once per calendar week (Sunday through Saturday)
        • Outpatient: every 8 visits or 30 days, whichever comes first
      • Serves as clinical instructor for physical therapy students.
      • Positively presents the profession of Physical Therapy to volunteers and other student personnel.
      • Conducts educational and/or in-service training programs for patients, department staff, physicians, related health care team members and community groups.
  • Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience
    • Required Qualifications (Including any licensure, certification, education):
      • Graduation from a college or university with either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Therapy, Master's degree in Physical Therapy, Post-graduate certificate in Physical Therapy, or Doctor of Physical Therapy.
      • Possession of license as a Physical Therapist issued by the Iowa Board of Physical and Occupational Therapy
      • Mandatory Reporter training within 90 days of hire and must maintain throughout employment.
    • Organizational Requirements:
      • Maintain stroke education per regulatory requirements.
    • Preferred Qualifications:
      • Doctor of Physical Therapy
      • APTA Board Specialist Certification
    • Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • Knowledge of physical therapy theory, neuroanatomy, kinesiology, physics, physiology, neurophysiology, exercise physiology, human development, statistics, learning and human behavior. Knowledge of physical therapy equipment, counseling techniques, and medical record and report preparation and maintenance.
      • Ability to perform professional physical therapy techniques, treatments; to calibrate and operate physical therapy and orthopedic equipment.
      • Ability to counsel patient and family, conduct nerve and muscle tests, create appliances and splints, collaborate with health care and social service personnel, recognize and record patient progress, prepare and maintain medical records and reports, orient and instruct patient and health care personnel.
      • Ability to demonstrate clinical competence and maintain current knowledge in caring for neonatal through geriatric patients.
      • Skill in providing professional physical therapy services and treatments including the use of good communication techniques, teaching precepts and complex problem-solving.
      • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
      • Skill in effective oral and written communication in English.
    • Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • Dependent upon specific position needs (i.e. aquatic therapy, manual therapy, pediatrics, vestibular rehabilitation, women's health, etc.)

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