Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring to my first physical therapy appointment?
Make sure you bring your physical therapy referral/prescription if required (provided to you by your doctor) 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.
Do I need prescription from a doctor?
Not necessarily. Colorado is a ‘direct access’ state that allows physical therapists to treat without a prescription. However, some insurance companies still require one. As a courtesy, we will verify your benefits with your insurance company, but it is your responsibility to know your benefits. You do NOT need a prescription if you choose to be seen as self pay
What should I expect on my first physical therapy appointment?
Your first appointment will last approximately an hour so we can get all your information, complete a thorough evaluation, educate you on our findings and develop a treatment plan to meet your goals. After completing the check in with one of our friendly receptionists, you will be brought back to a private treatment room. Your physical therapist will ask you many questions including your medical history, current complaints, what impacts your symptoms and what your goals are for therapy. Your therapist will then perform a complete evaluation including testing your motion, strength, balance, function, joint mobility and biomechanics. Then your therapist will discuss the finding and the treatment plan and get things started with treatment, starting you on your road to recovery!
What should I wear for physical therapy appointments?
You should wear 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. We do have gowns and shorts in the clinic as well.
How long will my physical therapy appointments last?
Your first appointment will last about an hour so we can complete a thorough evaluation and appointments thereafter can last 45 to 60 minutes depending on your individual needs.
Who will pay for my physical therapy?
In most cases, health insurance will cover your treatment. You also have the opportunity to be seen for a self pay option. You can give us a call to check and see if we participate with your insurance carrier or discuss our self pay rates.
Who will see me?
You will be evaluated by one of our licensed and highly trained physical therapists and he/she will also treat you during subsequent visits. Unlike some clinics, where you see someone different each visit, we feel it is very important to develop a one-on-one relationship with you to maintain continuity of care. Since only one physical therapist knows your problems best, he/she is the one that will be working closely with you to speed your recovery.
Do you offer any programs for when I am done with physical therapy?
Joint Effort does offer several options for our patients when therapy is complete…
