Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a prescription for physical therapy?
Yes. Physical Therapy performed in the states of Missouri and Illinois requires a prescription from a licensed physician.

What is the difference between a doctor’s prescription and an insurance referral?
A prescription is a Doctor's Order stating a need for Physical Therapy. It commonly suggests a treatment plan or protocol. An insurance referral is a separate authorization from your health insurance provider that authorizes both treatment length and number of visits and is necessary for payment.

What can I expect at my first visit?
Before your examination, you will need to fill out a patient information form, which includes insurance information. Be sure to bring a copy of your insurance card(s) on your initial visit. An initial examination involves the therapist examining the problem area and developing an effective treatment plan. During this initial consultation, the patient will be asked various questions regarding how the injury took place, and what types of symptoms are present.

Should I bring a list of my medications?
Yes, a complete list of medications you are taking is needed for your patient record. Medication name, dosage and reason you are taking it is helpful. It is important your therapist have this information in order to modify, defer &/or add appropriate treatment techniques that may be effected by certain medications.

Should I take my pain medication before I come to PT?
Everyone deals with pain differently. Unfortunately, physical therapy may initially increase the intensity of your pain. Taking pain medication before PT may make your treatment more tolerable. However, you should only take your medications as prescribed and follow all directions/precautions as indicated. You will also want to discuss the need for pain medication with your physical therapist, as pain is very individual.

What should I wear?
You should wear comfortable clothing. If you are presenting with a problem of your cervical spine, upper back or shoulders, the therapist can provide you with a gown as needed to expose these areas. If you are coming for a knee-leg-ankle-foot problem, shorts are important. You can bring clothing with you if you need to change here.

How long will the visit take?
The initial examination will take 45-60 minutes.

How long will each session take?
A typical visit without an evaluation will last 30-45 minutes.

Will my therapist communicate with my MD regarding my treatment?
Yes. Your physical therapist will send a progress report to your physician, depending on the length of your treatment, either weekly or before you return to your physician.

Will my insurance pay for PT?
PRORehab®, p.c. is pleased to serve as a provider for the vast majority of insurance plans in St. Louis and the surrounding region. You should contact your insurance carrier directly to verify benefits.

After scheduling your first appointment, we also verify benefits with your insurance carrier to establish if you have a physical therapy visit maximum per year, and if you are responsible for deductible, co-insurance or co-pays.

http://www.prorehabpc.com/patient_info/insurance.asp

Do I have to make my co-pay at the time of each visit, or can I be billed at the end of my treatment?
We ask that co-pays be made at the time of your appointment. We recommend that you verify your insurance benefits to confirm whether you are responsible for co- insurance, co-payments or deductibles. We do not bill patients at the conclusion of treatment for co-pays.

I had physical therapy a year ago, and now I’m having the same problem. Do I still need to see my doctor before I can return to therapy?
Yes. We are required by law to have an updated prescription from your physician. If it is the exact same complaint and you are otherwise in good health, try calling the physician's nurse and asking for a referral. This saves your and the physician's time and money, and we'll certainly evaluate you to rule out any other contributing factors that would warrant physician intervention.

What credentials do therapists require?
All physical therapists must graduate from an Accredited Physical Therapy Program at the University level. As a graduate, Physical Therapists must pass a National State Board Licensure Examination and possess an active state license for the state that they will practice in. Therapists are required by the State Board of Professional Regulation to maintain and increase their level of education through continuing education courses each year.