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Patient Info

Here you will find helpful information about preparing for your first appointment at APTOR Physical Therapy, what to expect during your evaluation, referral requirements, insurance coverage and self-pay options.

Questions are always welcome. Our team is here to help you understand the process and make getting started as simple as possible.

Before Your First Visit

A little preparation can help you make the most of your first visit with APTOR Physical Therapy.

Before you arrive:

Write down any questions or concerns you would like to discuss with your physical therapist.
Make note of your symptoms, including when they began, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect your daily activities.
Bring information about your medical history, previous treatments, current medications and any other details that may be relevant to your care.
We will go over your insurance coverage and benefits with you when you come in for your first visit, but if you have any questions beforehand, feel free to contact our office.
Plan to arrive on time (or 5 minutes early) to give yourself time tocomplete any necessary paperwork before you see the physical therapist.
Bring your insurance card and a valid photo ID.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your first visit is an opportunity for us to learn more about you, understand what is limiting you and begin developing a plan for your recovery.

You will meet with your physical therapist for an initial evaluation. During this visit, your therapist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, daily activities and goals. You will also have time to ask questions about your condition and what to expect from physical therapy.

Your evaluation may include an assessment of:

Movement and range of motion
Strength
Balance and coordination
Posture and walking
Activities that increase or relieve your symptoms
Functional movements related to work, home or recreation

Please let your therapist know if anything causes pain or discomfort during the evaluation. Open communication helps your therapist better understand your needs and adjust the assessment when appropriate.

After the evaluation, your therapist will explain the findings and recommend an individualized treatment plan. Depending on your condition and the time available, treatment may begin during your first visit. Your full program will continue and progress during future appointments.

Before you leave, we will schedule your next visits. The recommended frequency and length of treatment will depend on your evaluation, progress, goals and any guidance from your physician.

Questions are always welcome. Our team wants you to understand your treatment plan and feel comfortable throughout your time at APTOR Physical Therapy.

Schedule an Appointment

Direct Access & Physician Referrals

You may be able to begin physical therapy at APTOR without first obtaining a referral from a physician. This is known as Direct Access.

Under Alabama law, qualified physical therapists may evaluate and begin treating many patients with non-work-related conditions without a referral. Certain limitations and exceptions may apply, including special requirements for work-related injuries.

Starting with a physical therapist may help you address pain, an injury or a change in mobility without waiting for an additional medical appointment. Your therapist will evaluate your condition, develop an appropriate plan of care and refer you to another healthcare provider when further medical evaluation is needed.

Will Insurance Cover Direct Access?

Coverage requirements vary by insurance company and individual plan. Even when Alabama law allows you to see a physical therapist directly, your health plan may still require a referral or other authorization before it will pay for treatment.

Medicare also has specific plan-of-care certification requirements.

Not sure whether you need a referral? Call APTOR Physical Therapy at 205-345-4441. We will help you determine the appropriate next step and schedule an evaluation when applicable.

Self-Pay Physical Therapy

APTOR offers a self-pay option for patients who prefer to pay directly for physical therapy rather than bill treatment through insurance.

Self-pay may be a good option for patients who:

Do not have insurance coverage for physical therapy
Have a high deductible or copay
Want care that is not covered by their plan
Prefer a clear, upfront cost
Want to avoid insurance authorization requirements

With self-pay, your physical therapist can recommend care based on your evaluation, needs and goals. You will know the cost of treatment in advance, without waiting for an insurance company to process a claim.

APTOR also accepts insurance, so our team can help you compare available payment options and determine which approach may work best for you.

Insurance and Payment Options

APTOR Physical Therapy accepts a variety of health insurance plans. Because coverage, deductibles, copays and coinsurance vary, please contact our office before your first visit so we can help you review your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.

For patients without insurance coverage, or those who have reached their plan’s therapy limits, APTOR also offers a self-pay option.

Call APTOR Physical Therapy at 205.345.4441 with questions about insurance.

Questions or Request an Appointment