Do I need a script (prescription)?
Florida is a Direct Access State which means a prescription from your doctor is not necessary for you to be seen by a Physical therapist. However, most insurance companies require you have a script from your referring doctor as well as referral from your primary care physician if you participate in an HMO.

Will my insurance pay for P.T.?
Every insurance plan varies in its coverage of Physical Therapy Services. We will be happy in assisting you with this or you can call your insurance carrier to check on your plan’s coverage. We currently provide services to many common insurance companies and our list of carriers continues to grow.

What can I expect at my first visit?
Your Physical therapist will perform a comprehensive evaluation based on your individual needs. This could include, but is not limited to the following: Assessment of posture, gait, range of motion, strength, soft tissue changes, joint mobility, ….

Will you have a report from my MD on my condition?
Many times the only information therapists receive is the information on your prescription and that which you provide at the initial evaluation. Occasionally, a physician will fax diagnostic test reports or even call our office directly to report on a patient’s condition. If you have any reports the doctor has provided you with you are strongly encouraged to bring them with you to your initial evaluation.

What should I wear?
You should wear comfortable clothes that are not restrictive to movement and closed toe shoes like a sneaker (Ladies, no heels please) We can provide you with a patient gown to expose appropriate body parts, however, you may want to wear something that allows us to view that part without having to change (eg. If you are coming in for a knee problem you may want to wear shorts or bring a pair with you to change into)

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Should I bring a list of my medications?
Yes, a complete list of medications you are taking is needed for your patient record. Medication name, dosage and reason you are taking it is helpful. It is important your therapist have this information in order to modify, defer &/or add appropriate treatment techniques that may be effected by certain medications.

How long will the visit take?
For the initial evaluation expect to be in our clinic for at least one hour. Although, evaluation times vary according to individual patient needs there will be paper work to be filled out which will take some time.

How long will I need therapy and how often will I need to come to P.T.?
That depends on many factors. Many times your doctor will prescribe how often &/or how long you should receive physical therapy. Occasionally, insurance companies dictate this. But mostly your therapist will predict how often and how long you may need P.T. based on the findings at your initial evaluation.

How long will each session last?
Again, this varies on a case by case basis. We understand that your time is valuable to you. We will make every effort to maximize the use of your time while you are at physical therapy. On average, follow-up visits range from 30 – 45 minutes and are usually no greater than 1 hour.

Will my therapist communicate with my MD regarding my treatment/progress?
Definitely. Your physician will receive a copy of your initial evaluation and plan of care within 24 hours of your 1st visit. As indicated, weekly, bi-weekly &/or monthly reports will also be sent to your doctor. Occasionally, phone calls are also utilized to communicate any changes, problems &/or questions that may arise.

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Should I take my pain pills before coming to P.T.?
Everyone deals with pain differently. Unfortunately, physical therapy may increase the intensity of your pain. Taking pain medication before P.T. may make your treatment more tolerable. However, you should only take your medications as prescribed and follow all directions/precautions as indicated. You will also want to discuss the need for pain medication with your physical therapist as pain is very individual.

What education requirements/standards do your therapists have/need/possess?
All physical therapists must graduate from an Accredited Physical Therapy Program at the University level. As a graduate Physical therapists must pass a National State Board Licensure Examination and possess an active state license for the state which they will practice in. Therapists are required by the State Board of Professional Regulation to maintain and increase their level of education through continuing education courses each year. At the Physical Therapy Center we encourage all of our professional staff to be active members in our professional organization, The American Physical Therapy Association.

Can my spouse/significant other/caregiver come with me to P.T.?
It would be very appropriate for you to bring with you who ever will be assisting you at home in any way. With a family member, significant other &/or caregiver your therapist will be better able to assist you with a comprehensive home program &/or teach someone else how to better help you at home in your own environment.

Is parking an issue on the USF Campus?
No. We have ample parking reserved for our patients here at the Physical Therapy Center. You will not have to compete with the students &/or faculty for a parking spot on campus. There is also no fee for parking as a patient .

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What services do you offer?