Frequently asked questions
In Colorado, you generally do not need a doctor's referral for physical therapy. Colorado is a direct access state, which means most patients can go directly to a physical therapist without a doctor's referral. However, there are a few important exceptions to be aware of:
Insurance requirements: Some insurance policies may require a doctor's referral for coverage. It's best to check with your insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements.
Medicare, Tricare Prime, Worker's Compensation, and Motor Vehicle Accident insurance: Patients with these types of coverage must have a referral from their doctor prior to the first visit.
Health First Colorado (Medicaid): While you can go directly to a therapist, they must contact your primary care doctor to get approval for your treatment plan.
If you're unsure about your specific situation, it's recommended to contact your insurance provider directly. They can help determine if a referral is necessary for your particular case.
During your initial evaluation at Colorado Physio Clinic, you can expect a comprehensive and personalized experience designed to assess your condition and create an effective treatment plan. Here's what typically happens:
Discussion of Medical History and Symptoms: Your physical therapist will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, pain levels, daily activities, and treatment goals to understand your unique situation.
Physical Assessment: The therapist will evaluate your strength, flexibility, balance, posture, range of motion, and functional mobility. This may involve guided movement tasks to identify areas of pain or dysfunction.
Treatment Plan Development: Based on the evaluation, your therapist will design a tailored plan to address your needs and recovery goals. They may also start treatment during this session, which could include exercises, hands-on techniques, or modalities like heat or electrical stimulation.
Duration: The appointment typically lasts about an hour. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork.
Feel free to ask questions during the session—open communication helps ensure the best outcomes for your therapy journey.
For your first physical therapy appointment at Colorado Physio Clinic, please bring the following items to ensure a smooth and productive visit:
Photo ID: A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Insurance Card: If your treatment will be billed to insurance, bring your insurance information.
Referral or Prescription: If required by your insurance or physician, bring any referrals or prescriptions for therapy.
Medical Records and Imaging: Include X-rays, MRIs, or other relevant medical documents related to your condition.
List of Medications: Bring a list of any prescription or over-the-counter medications and supplements you are taking.
Payment Method: If a co-pay or co-insurance is required, bring a credit/debit card.
Arrive 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork. If you have questions about what to bring, feel free to contact the clinic before your appointment.
When attending your initial and follow-up physical therapy visits, it's important to wear clothing that allows for comfort, flexibility, and easy access to the treatment area. Here are some guidelines:
Clothing: Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing such as T-shirts, tank tops, and athletic shorts or pants with elastic waistbands. This type of clothing facilitates movement and allows your therapist to assess and treat the affected area easily.
Footwear: Wear sneakers, flat shoes, or athletic shoes that provide support and stability. Avoid open-toe shoes, heels, boots, and sandals.
Layers: Dressing in layers is recommended, as you may get warm during exercises. A lightweight jacket or sweatshirt can be easily removed if needed.
Hair and Hygiene: Secure long hair with a hair tie to prevent obstruction during therapy. Wear clean socks for hygiene and comfort.
Specific Needs: If you have an upper body injury, wear a loose-fitting top and sports bra if applicable. For lower body and low back injuries, wear shorts or pants that can be rolled up to expose the treatment area.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a comfortable and effective physical therapy session. If you have specific questions about what to wear, feel free to ask your therapist before your visit.