Your PT, Your Choice!
October 29, 2019

Your Opinion Matters

When you are selecting any kind of service whether it be a brunch spot or an orthopedic surgeon, we have all become accustomed to using the resources we have available to us to research our options.  Some people may ask their Facebook friends who the best physician in town is based on their experiences or by word-of-mouth.  Others may start researching online, dissecting a practice’s website, and scouring customer reviews to best understand who the better choice is.  The convenience of these resources make it easy to make an educated decision based on your needs.

Most patients are aware that they have the right to choose their primary doctor. It’s not always clear to them, however, that you have the right to choose who provides your physical therapy.  Patient rights also cover the right to choose when it comes to referrals.  When your doctor refers you to a specialist or physical therapist, it shouldn’t be an automatic decision without your input.  You should be given choices; and you should be able to request a physical therapist of your choice.

Use Your Voice

As an independently-owned clinic, we rely heavily on our supporters, fans, and prior patients to be vocal to their physicians about their choice in care.  We greatly appreciate hearing our patients tell their doctors about the experiences they’ve had at our clinic.  Make sure when the time comes for you to need physical therapy, that you have done your research and can make an educated decision.

While the opinion of your physician may be important, please know that most physical therapy clinics are now owned by major hospitals or practices.  Is your doctor referring you to the place where you will get the best care or the place that is attached to their office under the same name?  Make sure you are being referred to a place based on your needs not based on a continuous cycle of referrals.

What’s Important to You?

When selecting your physical therapist & clinic, make a list of the things that are important to you.  Your recovery should be your top priority.  When deciding on your physical therapy care, consider factors like these:

  • Outcomes of recovery in similar surgeries/injuries
  • Experience, continued education courses (post-degree), certifications
  • Additional resources (i.e. brochures, information)
  • Understand your insurance options at the clinic
  • Convenience of location & hours available to serve you
  • Compatibility of you & your therapist
  • Past patient reviews on sites like Google, Facebook, or Yelp

You can always stop by a clinic before deciding on your care and request a tour.  One of the best ways to understand how they will serve you is to give them an opportunity to.  Premier Physical Therapy is open Mondays-Thursdays from 7:00am-6:00pm and Fridays 7:00am-2:00pm.  Stop in any time so we can show you our amazing facility!