Do I need a PT referral from my doctor?
A new law was recently passed allowing you direct access to physical therapy without needing to visit a doctor first. Check with us to see if your insurance company has updated its policy.
Do you accept my insurance?
ATS is a Medicare approved provider and is also able to provide “In Network” benefits for most insurance companies. ATS also accepts Workers Compensation cases as well as Letters of Guarantee from attorneys for personal injury cases.
What can I expect during my first visit?
- You can fill out your paperwork when you arrive, or download it ahead of time under the Forms section of our website.
- You will give us your prescription for physical therapy, unless your doctor has already sent it.
- We will copy your insurance card.
- You will be seen for the initial evaluation by the therapist.
- The therapist will then perform the comprehensive evaluation which may include a complete history, palpation, range of motion, muscle testing, neurological screening, special tests, and postural assessment.
- The therapist will make a list of problems you are having, and make a plan on how to treat those problems. This includes how many times you should see the therapist per week, how many weeks you will need therapy, home programs, patient education, short-term/long-term goals, and what is expected after discharge from therapy. This plan is created with input from you, your therapist, and your doctor.
What should I bring?
Bring your physical therapy referral (unless your doctor has already sent it) and your payment information. If your insurance is covering the cost of physical therapy, bring your insurance card. If you are covered by Workers’ Compensation, bring your claim number and your case manager’s contact information. If you are covered by auto insurance or an attorney lien, make sure you bring this information.
How should I dress?
Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing so you can expose the area that we will be evaluating and treating. For example, if you have a knee problem, it is best to wear shorts. For a shoulder problem, a tank top is a good choice, and for low back problems, wear a loose fitting shirt and pants, again so we can perform a thorough examination. If you’re coming straight from work but don’t have time to change, bring your extra clothes with you and we’ll make sure you have a private, comfortable place to change.
How long will each treatment last?
Treatment sessions typically last 60 to 90 minutes per visit.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your impairments, and factors such as your past medical history. You will be re-evaluated on a monthly basis and when you see your doctor, together we will determine how much more therapy you need.
What happens if my problem or pain returns?
If you have a flare-up (exacerbation), give us a call. We may suggest you come back to see us, return to your doctor, or simply modify your daily activities or exercise routine.
How does the billing process work?
Billing for physical therapy services is similar to what happens at your doctor’s office. The physical therapist bills your insurance company, Workers’ Comp, or charges you based on Common Procedure Terminology (CPT) codes. process. Those codes are transferred to a billing form that is either mailed or electronically communicated to the payer. The payer processes this information and makes payments according to an agreed upon fee schedule. An Explanation of Benefits (EOB) is generated and sent to the patient and the physical therapy clinic with a check for payment and a balance due by the patient. The patient is expected to make the payment on the balance if any.
Our office is in frequent contact with your doctor, your insurance company, and you. There are many small steps within the process, and every patient is different. Information may be missing, miscommunicated, or misunderstood, which can delay the payment process. While it is common for the payment process to be completed in 60 days or less, it is not uncommon for the physical therapy clinic to receive payment as long as six months after the treatment date
What will I do after physical therapy?
Some patients will need to continue with a home exercise program. Some may choose to continue with a gym exercise program. Others will complete their rehabilitation and return to normal daily activities. Your therapist will work with you to develop a custom program for you, so that you can continue to meet your goals.