What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring a photo ID (driver’s license), insurance cards (if using insurance), the registration forms filled out from the website (if you choose to print and fill out prior to your first appointment), a prescription for physical therapy from your doctor (if one was provided to you), and any motor vehicle accident 3 rd party information (if applicable).

What will happen on my first visit?

Following your initial intake processing, the PT will conduct an interview to gain information about your main problem, then an objective examination will determine any impairments or deficits to guide in the plan of care. A basic treatment usually ensues, followed by scheduling future appointments at the front desk.

How should I dress?

Please wear loose fitting clothes so that the Physical Therapist can access the area being treated. Tennis shoes are generally not required on the first visit.

How long will each treatment last?

Expect each visit to last approximately 45 to 75 minutes, depending on whether paperwork is already filled out from the website for your first visit and the extent of your injuries or problem.

How many visits will I need?

In some cases, the referring physician may prescribe a certain number of weeks or visits, but the Physical Therapist will determine an estimated number of treatments based on the initial exam findings and a regular re-assessment of your condition. The average length of duration is approximately 8-12 treatments for many conditions.

Who will be working with me?

A licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy will perform the initial examinations and determine the plan of care, in addition to any complex or highly skilled manual techniques. A licensed Physical Therapy Assistant will assist in some manual treatments, or a Physical Therapist Technician with modalities (like ultrasound or electrical stimulation), and supervision/ guidance in therapeutic exercise.

Is physical therapy painful?

The majority of the time it is not. In fact there can be immediate relief. However, there are times when “treatment soreness” can occur up to 24-36 hours following a particular treatment. This soreness is sometimes a “side-effect” of what the technique or exercise is ultimately trying to accomplish. If treatment soreness lasts for more than 48 hours, please tell your Physical Therapist.

What will my treatments consist of?

Most conditions will involve some form of manual therapy (i.e. movement of joints, passive range of motion, manual stretching, and myofascial techniques) and exercise movements that are based on scientific evidence. In some cases, modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation will be used for pain control or to promote healing.

Do I need a prescription for physical therapy?

In the state of Arizona a prescription from a physician is not required, however, a few insurance plans require one for coverage of services. We would be happy to verify and confirm your coverage requirements for you. In the event, you choose not to use insurance; we offer a reasonable cash rate. Please contact us if you have any questions.

How are my insurance billing and out-of-pocket costs handled?

We send charges for each date of service to our billing company on a weekly basis. They submit the claims to the insurance company to process. In 2-4 weeks, in most cases, the insurance company sends out reimbursement and an explanation of benefits (EOB) to the patient and provider. Any deductible or co-insurance amounts owed by the patient will then be forwarded to the patient as a statement. These balance statements are sent out once a month (usually in the middle of the month). Any office or specialist co-pays are required at each visit.

What happens if we are an out-of network provider?

We will verify your insurance benefits prior to your arrival, if you choose. If we are out of network with your plan, we will discuss the comparison of in versus out of network costs to you. In some cases, we will work with you to make your out-of-pocket costs affordable. Remember, your physician recommended us for a reason; to receive the best care possible, regardless of insurance coverage. If you don’t have coverage we have competitive cash plans that will fit your financial needs.