How to Choose a Physical Therapist:
A Physical Therapist is an integral member of your Healthcare team and it’s important that you choose someone that is experienced and that you feel engaged and comfortable working with. Below are some factors to consider.
- Insurance Coverage for PT:
Unfortunately for many, this may have to be your first consideration, as we all have to think about priorities and budget. How important is it to you to use your insurance? If you need your insurance company to pay for your PT treatment, call them to find out if PT has to be In-network &/or if there are any stipulations or criteria for your treatment. You may be able to choose your PT out of network and then submit your PT invoices to receive reimbursement according to your plan. Call your insurance to find out ahead of scheduling so you know what to expect. - Education:
Look for wide range of clinical experience – check their website for credentials, clinical experience, State Licensure. - Evidence Based Practice:
Look for engagement in keeping current with continuing education, lectures, practicing new, evidence-based methodologies. - Communication Skills & Personality:
You will have some hard work to do with your PT, choose someone with an engaging personality that you can connect with, trust and have feel comfortable with having them as a solid cheerleader, motivator & health team member. - Adaptive Skills:
A great PT will help you get better faster with the right program geared to your specific goals. Every patient will be evaluated, and provided with their unique treatment protocol with ongoing reevaluations. - Setting:
Do you need/prefer to be in a Clinic or Hospital setting, Outdoors, a Home Visit or a Teletherapy session? Discuss with your PT the best setting for your needs. - Nutshell:
In the end its not about the bells and whistles, its about your PT’s knowledge, skill level, and ability to apply these to your case in a way that motivates, inspires and supports you in the most optimal way to reach your rehabilitation goals.
Bridget Grey PT has a Community Physical Therapy practice currently providing Teletherapy and outdoor masked, distanced sessions, in Culver City and the Westside, California. She has lived in Culver City for 22 years. She works with Patients of all ages and fitness levels from school-aged athletes, professional & recreational athletes and dancers to elders in our community.
You can reach her at Bridgetgreypt@gmail.com