How to Ace Your Select Medical Interview: Top Questions and Answers

With over 36000 employees across more than 1900 facilities nationwide, Select Medical is one of the largest operators of critical illness recovery hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and occupational health centers in the United States. They are a leading provider of physical therapy and rehabilitation services.

Landing a job with a rapidly growing healthcare organization like Select Medical is a great opportunity but first you must impress your interviewers. In this comprehensive guide we will explore some commonly asked Select Medical interview questions along with sample answers to help you stand out from the competition.

Why Interviews Are Important at Select Medical

Select Medical invests significant time and resources into their hiring process because they want to ensure each new employee is a great culture fit who strongly aligns with their values of integrity, compassion, relationships, innovation, and excellence.

Some key qualities they assess for through interviews include:

• Patient-focused care mindset
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Problem-solving abilities
• Communication skills
• Reliability and professionalism
• Passion for the organization’s mission

Coming prepared to discuss your experiences and skills related to these areas is crucial for interview success.

Common Select Medical Interview Questions and Sample Responses

1. Why are you interested in working at Select Medical?

This opening question allows you to share your enthusiasm for the company. Be sure to highlight your knowledge of their services and mission.

Sample Response: I’m very interested in working for Select Medical because I’ve seen your outstanding reputation as a leading critical illness recovery provider. Your core values around compassionate care and innovation strongly resonate with me. I’m inspired by how your services help patients regain independence after illness or injury. Most of all, I’m drawn to be part of an organization with such an amazing culture and commitment to their clinicians and patients alike.

2. What relevant experience do you have for this position?

This is your chance to summarize your qualifications. Focus on past roles, education, and skills that make you well-suited for the job.

Sample Response: Through my background as a physical therapy assistant for over 5 years, I’ve developed expertise in providing one-on-one patient care and assisting with treatment plans. In my current role, I collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary rehab team to track patient progress and adjust treatments accordingly. I also have direct experience with therapy modalities like therapeutic exercise, electrical stimulation, and gait training. Additionally, I stay up to date through continued CE education on the latest evidence-based techniques. This diverse experience has prepared me well for this role.

3. How would you handle a difficult patient or family member?

Healthcare roles require patience and empathy when interacting with patients and families, especially during times of stress. Share your approach to maintaining compassion and professionalism.

Sample Response: If faced with a difficult patient or family member, I would first seek to understand their perspective and validate their feelings. Even if a person is angry or upset, I would speak calmly and avoid any frustration on my end. If needed, I’m comfortable setting firm but empathetic boundaries around inappropriate behavior. My focus is always on resolving the situation in a way that maintains the patient’s dignity while also upholding safety protocols. Patient trust is key, so I aim to find solutions through open communication and active listening.

4. How do you stay up to date on the latest developments in your field?

Select Medical values a commitment to continuous learning. Discuss the resources and proactive measures you take to build your expertise.

Sample Response: I make a point to regularly review industry publications, journals, and online forums to learn about emerging research and best practices. I also attend seminars and classes related to my field as much as possible. Within my own organization, I collaborate with coworkers to share knowledge – for example, discussing effective interventions or debriefing after complex patient cases. I’m also an active member of my professional association which provides great development resources. Staying current ensures I can always provide the highest quality care to my patients.

5. Tell me about a time you failed at something and what you learned from it.

Recruiters often ask behavioral questions to gauge your self-awareness, accountability, and growth mindset. Choose an example that highlights reflection and personal improvement.

Sample Response: Early in my career as a rehab aide, I struggled with time management. In my eagerness to be thorough with each patient, I often spent too long on treatments and documentation, getting behind on my schedule. My supervisor brought this pattern to my attention in a constructive way. I took her feedback seriously and started tracking my time more diligently. Within a few weeks, I improved significantly at balancing thorough care with keeping sessions on schedule. This experience taught me the value of proactive self-evaluation even when I have the best intentions.

6. How would you build rapport and earn the trust of patients?

Healthcare roles require developing meaningful connections with patients. Share proven relationship-building strategies.

Sample Response: I build rapport with patients by first creating a comfortable environment through my body language and tone. From there, I prioritize listening closely to their concerns while displaying empathy. I provide education tailored to their needs and preferences, encouraging questions. Checking in frequently shows I’m attuned to their comfort level. I also make sure to protect patient privacy and dignity at all times. Following through reliably on my commitments establishes trust. My patient-centered approach promotes the mutual understanding needed for quality care.

7. How do you contribute to a positive team culture?

Select Medical emphasizes collaboration and teamwork. Discuss your approach to being a good teammate.

Sample Response: I contribute to a positive culture by having an upbeat, encouraging attitude and actively avoiding negativity or gossip. I pitch in to assist coworkers without hesitation. I also make it a priority to recognize others’ contributions and good work. During stressful times, I try to keep spirits high. I enjoy collaborating closely with my team while still taking personal accountability. Most importantly, I focus on clear communication and active listening to prevent conflicts or misunderstandings from arising. My supportive, reliable presence fosters camaraderie and boosts morale.

8. How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple assignments or patients?

Time management and organization are key skills in healthcare. Discuss your approach to managing competing priorities.

Sample Response: When juggling multiple assignments, I first assess urgency and potential impact so I can classify tasks as low, medium or high priority. I tackle urgent items first while keeping others moving forward. I re-evaluate constantly in case new urgent needs arise. I also communicate proactively with my team and patients if anything is at risk of delay. I may delegate lower priority tasks if appropriate. Above all, I remain focused while multitasking and utilize tools like checklists to stay organized. This ensures everything gets addressed properly despite a heavy workload.

9. Where do you see your career in the next few years?

Conclusion questions allow you to demonstrate your enthusiasm for professional growth and aspirations that align with the role.

Sample Response: My goal is to firmly establish myself as a highly skilled clinician at Select Medical and take on more responsibilities, whether training newer staff or helping streamline care coordination processes. I hope to grow into leadership roles where I can mentor others and have a broader impact on patient outcomes and experience. Most of all, I want to become an expert provider known for exemplary work and contributions to Select Medical’s mission. This role is the ideal next step for me to develop professionally while helping even more patients regain mobility and independence.

How to Prepare for a Select Medical Interview

• Research Select Medical’s services, mission, and organizational culture
• Review the job description closely and assess your qualifications
• Practice discussing your relevant experience, education, certifications and skills
• Prepare examples that demonstrate critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and customer service
• Review frequently asked healthcare interview questions and sample responses
• If interviewing on-site, confirm the location ahead of time and plan your route
• Get a good night’s rest so you are refreshed and focused for the interview

With proper preparation, you can showcase your healthcare expertise while also demonstrating strong cultural fit. Use these tips and sample responses to have a winning interview!