FAQ:
​
Q: Why choose Ascend PT?
​
A: We are a small private practice with highly specialized and skilled practitioners. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional, one-on-one hands on care with all patients. At Ascend, you will never feel like you are just a number coming through the door! Our clinicians specialize in orthopedics, manual therapy, and sports medicine, and utilize the latest advancements in orthopedic knowledge and techniques, incorporating evidence-based practices in order to deliver the highest level of care.
​
Q: How do I arrange an appointment?
​
A: Simply call the clinic and our office staff will get all the necessary information from you to help set you up for your first appointment with one of our physical therapists.
​
Q: Do I need a prescription for physical therapy?
​
A: Yes, in most cases, in the state of Michigan a referral from a physician is required to bill health insurance. However, in some cases, a patient can be seen in the state of Michigan for up to 10 visits or 21 days, whichever comes first, without a prescription. If you ever have questions, please feel free to call our office and our staff can answer any additional questions you may have!
​
Q: What should I expect on my first visit?
​
A: On your first visit, your physical therapist will perform an examination/evaluation to determine what deficits and/or problems you have that can be addressed by physical therapy. The examination/evaluation involves a thorough history, a systems review, and special tests and measurements. Your physical therapist will make a clinical judgment, and an individualized treatment program will be developed. This program will have realistic goals set by you and your therapist. You should allow at least one hour for your visit.
Q: How long will my visits last?
​
A: Each treatment will last about 45-60 minutes.
Q: Will my insurance cover physical therapy?
​
A: Although most insurance companies do cover physical therapy, what they cover specifically varies greatly. Please review our billing and insurance section on this website. Please note, even if we do not participate with your insurance company, we will bill almost all insurance companies directly and not the patient. The patient may be responsible for "co-pay" or a certain percentage of the bill at the time of service. However, please note that you are personally responsible for payment including any co-payment.
Q: What should I wear?
​
A: In general, wear comfortable clothing that you can move and exercise in. Gowns are available for neck, back and shoulder problems. If you are coming for a lower-extremity problem, please bring a pair of loose shorts and tennis shoes.
Q: What should I bring with me?
​
A: Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes prior to your first visit in order to complete the necessary paperwork. You will also need your insurance card and driver's license. You can download our patient information form and past medical history form from our website. If you have any operative reports, MRI or X-ray results, you may bring those as well but they are not necessary. Additionally, if you are utilizing any type of brace, splint, orthotics or crutches, those should come with you.
Q: What office policies should I be aware of?
​
A: We ask that our patients give 24-hours notice when possible for cancellations to avoid a cancellation fee.
​
Q: What types of interventions will I receive?
​
A: The interventions you receive will depend on what the physical therapist finds in the examination/evaluation. Treatments are based on individual findings and will include but are not limited to: manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, balance, gait training, taping, endurance exercises, and return to sport training.
Q: How is my progress measured?
​
A: Your physical therapist will perform a detailed examination/evaluation during your first appointment, and every 30 days following your initial evaluation a progress note with updated measurements will be done.
Q: Is it OK to ask my doctor about physical therapy?
​
A: Absolutely. If you have a problem you think can be helped with physical therapy, we recommend discussing it with your physician.
​
Q: Who chooses which physical therapist I go to?
​
A: It is entirely up to you! Patients have the freedom to choose who they get treatment from. Oftentimes, your physician will give you a recommendation or a listing of physical therapists in your area. In addition, some times insurance companies will guide you with regard to who is "in network” for your insurance plan. Ultimately, however, the decision where you receive your care is up to you.
If you have a specific request, you need to let your physician or insurance company know. If we are not in network with your insurance company most plans have out-of-network benefits that will allow you the freedom of choice. Remember we are willing to bill most insurance companies directly.
​