FAQ
- What should I expect during my first visit?
- Is a prescription required to be treated by a physical therapist?
- What is Direct Access?
- When should I return to my doctor?
- Does Body In Balance Physical Therapy accept my insurance plan?
- Do you accept Workers Compensation?
- Do you accept No-fault Insurance?
- Do I need a referral or authorization prior to my first visit?
- Will I need to pay at time of service?
What should I expect during my first visit?
An initial evaluation is performed that lasts approximately 1 hour. The treating physical therapist will discuss your medical history and goals to establish a future treatment plan. At the end of your first session, your therapist will discuss the frequency of your visits and expected duration of your treatment plan. Please bring any medical history reports, including x-ray and MRI results. You must arrive with your referring doctor’s written prescription for physical therapy and your insurance card. Please wear comfortable clothing and sneakers.
Is a prescription required to be treated by a physical therapist?
Yes. The Physical Therapy Direct Access Law (see explanation below) allows patients to be treated by a Physical Therapist without a physician’s prescription for 30 days or 10 visits, whichever occurs first. However, we do suggest that you obtain a prescription as a safeguard for insurance company reimbursement.
What is Direct Access?
As of November 2006, NY State licensed physical therapists with 3 or more years of experience have been granted direct access to the general public. This means that patients can be treated by a physical therapist without a physician’s prescription. This law allows us to treat for 30 days or 10 visits, whichever occurs first. All visits beyond this point will require a prescription from a NY State licensed physician, osteopath, podiatrist or nurse practitioners. Please check with your insurance company directly for their specific guidelines regarding this law. Some insurance companies still require prescriptions at all times for payment. Medicare, Workers Compensation and No-Fault patients must have a prescription during all phases of treatment.
When should I return to my doctor?
Upon obtaining your prescription for Physical Therapy, your doctor will determine when you should schedule an appointment for a follow-up.
Does Body In Balance Physical Therapy accept my insurance plan?
Body In Balance Physical Therapy is a participating provider with many insurance companies (see insurance page for information). In the event that we do not participate with your specific insurance company or policy, often we can utilize your out-of-network benefits to obtain reimbursement for the services provided.
Do you accept Workers Compensation?
Yes.
Do you accept No-fault Insurance?
Yes.
Do I need a referral or authorization prior to my first visit?
In some cases, your insurance policy will require a referral or authorization prior to your initial evaluation. When you contact our office to schedule an evaluation, our staff will obtain your insurance information. Our office staff will then contact your insurance company and verify your physical therapy benefits prior to your first visit. If it turns out that a referral or authorization is needed prior to your evaluation, you will be informed immediately.
Will I need to pay at time of service?
Payment for any co-payments or other out-of-pocket expenses is required at each visit. We accept cash, check, and credit card (Visa & Mastercard only).
Lisa Johnson, Owner of Body In Balance, has earned the distinction of Board Certified Specialist in Women’s Health by the 