FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO YOU SEE PATIENTS WITH NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS SUCH AS STROKE, VESTIBULAR DISORDERS, OR CONCUSSIONS?
Unfortunately, I am not well-suited to treat these conditions as I lack both the equipment and experience necessary to deal with these complicated issues. My background is almost exclusively in the orthopedic realm. However, if you do need PT for any of these issues please call and I can refer you to some fellow therapists who treat these issues near your location!
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING SESSIONS?
The answer to this depends on what your needs are. Basically, this initial session will consist of a thorough history focusing on your current level of fitness and what you're goals are, a general range of motion and strength exam, a more detailed strength exam including 1-rep max if needed, and then prescribing a program for you to begin working towards your goals. If your goal includes running then this will be included in your assessment and exercise prescription. If you have questions regarding dieting then I can give you suggestions, but know that I am by no means an expert in this field and you should seek a dietician for more specific recommendations.
Please note that these sessions are likely not covered by your insurance.
DO YOU USE MODALITIES SUCH AS ULTRASOUND?
Due to the portability of the clinic I do not have any modalities (ultrasound, electric stimulation, mechanical traction, laser therapy, etc). Do not let this deter you from working with my clinic though! There is not much in the way of objective research that shows any significant benefit from doing modalities versus doing the active treatments that you will receive under my care.
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY "MANUAL PHYSICAL THERAPY"?
By manual physical therapy I am referring to therapeutic procedures that involve hands on procedures to help mobilize your joints or soft tissue or else using my hands to help guide you through your exercises. The alternative to this would be physical therapy that is exclusively exercise and/or modalities (such as ultrasound or electric stimulation). There is ample evidence through research that the use of both manual therapy and exercise leads to better, quicker results than just using one without the other.
DO YOU OFFER FREE HEALTH CONSULTATIONS?
While I do not offer free examinations as detailed above, I would be more than happy to discuss with you the symptoms you are experiencing and potential treatment options over the phone or through e-mail.
WHAT IS YOUR NEW PATIENT PROCEDURE?
To start, I encourage all potential new clients to contact me via e-mail or phone so we can discuss your future physical therapy care. Asides from this, though, all new patients should go through the "Necessary Forms" page to fill out their medical history, liability forms, HIPAA forms, and a functional questionnaire pertaining to their injury. Lastly, on the same page there is an insurance document detailing the steps each patient should take to ensure reimbursement from their insurance.
Once your initial appointment begins the typical procedure will include a detailed history, physical examination, explanation of your deficits and then the start of your treatment for these deficits.
HOW WILL MY INFORMATION BE PROTECTED?
I've entered into a Business Associate Agreement with Google Apps which allows me to keep your documentation (i.e. medical histor, daily notes, etc) private and secure per HIPAA compliance. Please visit the following link for more information if needed: HIPAA Compliance With Google Apps.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY APPOINTMENT?
If you are coming for an injury to any part of your leg please wear shorts or yoga pants that give easy access to your ankle and knee. If you are coming for an injury to your arm a loose fitting t-shirt or exercise garment will work. If you are coming for a strength and conditioning session then feel free to wear whatever you prefer to exercise in.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR GETTING REIMBURSED?
Basically, I will provide you with a receipt after each session detailing what we did and then you will provide this receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement. However, unfortunately, the process is not quite so simple. Prior to filing for reimbursement there are several easy steps you need to do first to ensure that you will be reimbursed. Please see my "Insurance Checklist" under the "Necessary Forms" tab at the top of this page to find out more. If your insurance company requires further documentation for reimbursement (i.e. progress notes) you can provide them with my information so that we can take care of this matter.
WHY SHOULD YOU PAY OUT OF POCKET HERE WHEN YOU COULD GET COVERED SERVICES AUTOMATICALLY ELSEWHERE?
The number one answer to this is the quality and attentive care that you will be receiving at O'Neil Physical Therapy. Unlike many larger clinics you will be provided with entirely one on one care lasting anywhere from 30-60 minutes depending on what you desire and what your needs are. Our treatment sessions together will consist of hands on interventions where I am either assisting to promote motion or guiding you through the correct technique for each exercise. Further, all of your treatment sessions will be highly personalized based on your your needs, your disabilities, and your goals. One other reason to select me for your physical therapy needs is that in most cases I will be seeing you for one visit every 1-2 weeks since I am able to provide such personalized care during each session whereas many large clinics will request to see you 2-3x/week. When you consider this the copays you'll be paying at other clinics will only be slightly less than what you will pay with me. The final thing that sets me apart and why you should choose my services is the convenience of being able to do your PT at a location and time more convenient to your lifestyle. If you still are not sure if a cash-based clinic is not suitable for your needs please do not hesitate to contact me regarding your concerns.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
I accept payment via check, debit/credit card, cash, health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA). Payment is expected at the end of each session.
WHAT IF I'M ENROLLED IN MEDICARE?
Due to Medicare regulations I am not able to see Medicare patients in a cash based capacity for physical therapy. However, I am able to see you for wellness or maintenance during a strength and conditioning session (or multiple sessions if needed).
DO I NEED A REFERRAL FROM A DOCTOR?
In the state of North Carolina a referral for physical therapy from a doctor in order to be treated. However, in order to be reimbursed by your insurance company you may need to get a referral from your PCP. Please see my "Insurance Checklist" under "Necessary Forms" for more information.