Frequently Asked Questions about Hamilton Physical Therapy
Q: How do I set up an appointment?
A: Contact our office if your physician gives you a referral, or if you have experienced a new musculoskeletal injury that has not been evaluated by your physician. We will get your contact information, diagnosis, any insurance information and availability. We can then verify your insurance coverage, however, please remember that information given to us by your insurance company does not guarantee payment by your carrier.
Q: What should I bring on the first visit?
A: Please bring your physician referral, insurance ID card, as well as any x-ray, MRI, documentation, and any diagnostic testing results that relate to the area being seen for.
Q: What should I expect during my appointments?
A: On the first visit, your physical therapist will first discuss the history of your diagnosis, the pattern of your symptoms and begin a physical and functional examination to assess strength, joint range of motion, soft tissue flexibility and perform special tests. The remaining time will be used in manual treatment, modalities and or instruction in a home exercise program. This usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. Your physical therapist may ask you to bring in any orthotics, bracing, supports, running or walking shoes for gait and movement analysis. There will be ongoing education between you and your physical therapist regarding your injury and the rehabilitation process. The more knowledgeable you are regarding your dysfunction, the easier it will be for you to manage your symptoms at home or during functional activities.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Please wear, or bring loose clothing that you can move easily in and allows for easy visual hands-on examination of the area to be treated.
Q: Will my insurance cover my physical therapy visits?
A: We accept most forms of private insurance, Workers Compensation and Medicare. However, we are not “in-network” with any HMO’s or PPO’s. We deliver very cost-effective treatment and will work within your budgetary constraints. Please contact our office with questions regarding your specific insurance policy and the amount of coverage for physical therapy services.
Q: How will my physician follow my progress?
A: After your first visit, an Initial Evaluation Report will be sent to your referring physician summarizing the findings and treatment plan. After a few weeks, and before your next doctor’s appointment, a progress note will be generated to apprise the physician of your status and progress. It is important that you inform your physical therapist when your next doctor’s appointment will be.
Q: Can I come to PT without being referred by a doctor?
A: Direct Acccess: As of January 2014 in the state of California, you can directly access a physical therapist without a physician referral or prescription for treatment. Previously diagnosed injuries can be treated and insurance will cover the claims as they have in the past, including Medicare.
New injuries, not previously diagnosed can be treated by a PT for 45 days or 12 visits (whichever occurs first) and if the injury has not resolved, you will be referred to your physician for diagnostics.
If your insurance company still requires a referral from your doctor, we can assist you in obtaining one.
Q: What if I need to cancel or re-schedule an appointment?
A: We ask that you give us 24 hours notice. After hours, please leave a message on our answering machine.
Feel free to contact our office with any other questions you may have!
Call 925.838.9846
or visit our Contact Page