Patients’ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I bring to my first visit?
A: If you haven’t completed the patient forms prior to your first visit, we ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to do so. If you have a referral or a prescription for physical therapy, be sure to bring that, as well as your insurance card and Worker’s Comp/ No-Fault information. We also suggest you wear loose, comfortable clothing that will allow a greater range of motion during therapy.
A: For the first visit, you should expect to spend an hour at our facility for evaluation and the first treatment. After that, therapy sessions are usually 45 minutes, but can run longer depending on your program. If you’re scheduled for a Functional Capacity Evaluation, the time is usually 2-3 hours.
A: Every patient of ours is treated by a licensed physical therapist. We often work closely with university and college doctoral physical therapy internship programs, but you are always under direct supervision of the treating therapist. Howard Physical Therapy does not employ rehabilitation aides or trainers as an alternative. Our staff is fully licensed.
A: Yes. Although your physician may give you suggestions for a physical therapist along with your prescription, you have the right to choose the physical therapy clinic that is best for you. Factors to consider when choosing a physical therapist include location, available hours, ease of scheduling, and qualifications of the staff. Howard Physical Therapy is proud to employ Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapy Specialists who work closely with your physician to give you the very best care. We are an independently owned clinic and have no financial ties to corporations, physicians or medical groups.
Q: What should I expect at my physical therapy sessions?
A: For your initial visit, you should expect an evaluation first, followed by treatment that depends on how your evaluation goes. We then set individual goals based on your needs, scientifically based protocols, and your physician’s recommendations. After that, your sessions should be 2-3 times a week, and your therapist will work with you to improve function, range of motion, strength and flexibility. We use weights and resistance equipment and incorporate balance and training activities. Depending on your needs, your therapist may use treatment modalities, such as manual therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, ultrasound, phonophoresis, iontophoresis, cryotherapy, moist heat, laser therapy, traction and paraffin wax treatment.
Q: Is this covered by my insurance?
A: Our therapy clinic accepts most local and national insurance plans. We take Medicare, Workers’ Compensation, No-Fault and other regional HMOs. A majority of private insurance plans do have a physical therapy benefit included in their packages. Most of the time, patients will be responsible for co-payments, deductibles or co-insurance. Speak to your insurance provider to be sure.