FAQ
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.
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.