Six Things to Know Before Choosing a Physical Therapist

So your Doctor says you need physical therapy or, as in many states with direct access, YOU decide you want to see a Physical Therapist (PT).  How do you go about choosing the right PT and PT establishment?

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Many people don’t realize that they have a choice when it comes to where they attend physical therapy. Yes, your Doctor may have recommended a place to you who could be great and truly based on a history of proven outcomes, OR it could be because they have a financial interest in where you receive PT.  This is an entirely different subject.  Just be aware that this arrangement is out there.

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You are the director of your own healthcare, and it’s important to make an informed choice. Consider the following six criteria that can make all the difference in your care and more importantly your outcomes.

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1.      Credentials: Not all Physical Therapists are created equal.  Yes, we all have the same underlying core education, however post-graduate experience and continuing education is key to you getting the care you need.  Credentials are an indication of advanced or specialty training that can mean you will feel better and move better, faster. Look for a therapist who has experience treating your specific condition and pursues advanced training, such as orthopaedics or manual therapy. Here are some credentials to look for: MTC, COMT, OCS

2.      Customized: Every patient is unique with their own health history, physical challenges and diagnosis. Ask about the plan of care that will be created specifically for you to reach your goals. Your plan of care should be tailored to your needs and be dynamic in that as you progress, so does your plan of care.

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3.      Convenience: Studies show you are more likely to complete your plan of care when the clinic is convenient to your home or place of employment, so set yourself up for success. Completing the plan of care is a very important step towards recovery as studies have shown that those who do complete their plan are seven times more likely to return to work, use less healthcare benefits and are seven times less likely to have additional surgeries.

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4.      Compliance: Your health insurance may require a referral as part of your insurance plan.  As of 2013 there are 46 States that have some form of Direct Access to PT, which in its purest form means you do not need a referral to see a PT.  Colorado happens to be one of those states. You may check with your insurance company and ask about referrals, copays and coinsurance or simply contact one of our locations and we will contact them for you.  Compliance with State and Federal insurance regulations is very important.

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5.      Confidence: Recommendations from patients who had a great experience can help you make your decision with confidence. Ask the therapist for testimonials or search out comments on their social media page or website.

6.      Personality: This is a big one!  Personalities matter.  I believe this criterion is probably the most important. If all of the above 5 factors are good initially but there is a core personality difference between you and your PT, the overall FIT will not be good and soon confidence and compliance will decay and once this happens who cares how convenient, customized and credentialed the PT is.  It is human nature, sometimes we just don’t click.  Do not settle.  This does not mean you have to leave the PT establishment.  You don’t have to give up the convenience and compliance.  Simply request to see someone else.  We’re all adults and your PT should be understanding and helpful.  One key to a great PT is that they understand their limitations and seek to get you to the right person.

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I hope this has been helpful.  Before you make your first appointment call the office you are considering or, even better, stop by, ask questions and request to meet briefly with one of the PT’s.  Rocky Mountain Spine and Sport is here to serve your specific rehabilitation needs.  We invite you to stop in, see one our clinics, walk around and meet a PT.

Eric Krell  - PT, DPT, BScPT, MTC
Follow @EKrellDPT