Question 1

What is cash-based physical therapy?

Accepted Answer

In a cash-based treatment model, the physical therapy company does not enter into a contract with any insurance companies.  Instead, an agreement between the patient and provider is established in a manner that both parties have determined will help them reach treatment goals most efficiently. The patient pays at the time of service, allowing the therapist to focus attention on providing the best possible service while keeping administrative costs low.  You may pay for services using actual cash, a check, or a credit or debit card.  Cash-based billing eliminates an insurance company's control of the episode of care and allows the physical therapist to treat an individual more comprehensively.  This allows MBody You, LLC to prioritize patient care and experience, and allows patients to have a more active role in making decisions regarding their treatment plan and health care choices.   Most insurance companies will provide payment for "out of network" services.  MBody You, LLC is an out-of-network provider and can provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.  Often times, patients have to pay a co-pay for PT visits multiple times per week.  Due to the time allowed, commitment, and expertise of MBody You, LLC physical therapy visits, patients typically will need to schedule appointments less frequent than your traditional, in-network physical therapy provider.

Question 2

How do I found out if my insurance covers out-of-network physical therapy services?

Accepted Answer

You can look at your Summary of Benefits or call your insurer.  See the PDF below for a "Out-of-network" guide and a worksheet to help you through your phone call.

Question 3

What should I expect to get from the complementary phone consultation?

Accepted Answer

This 15 minute phone call is offered for your physical therapist to learn about your current concerns, as well as to discuss your goals and find out if we are a good fit.  You will not receive formal recommendations during this conversation, as I will likely want to know more about your medical history before proceeding.  You should leave with a better understanding of the services that we offer and have a better idea if I am the right practitioner for you!

Question 4

What equipment do I need to be successful with telehealth?

Accepted Answer

In order to have a successful telehealth session, there are a couple of things that should be set up prior to your first appointment:   1).  A device that can do video chat (smartphone, tablet, or computer with camera and microphone) -- you may need supportive surfaces at various heights in order for you physical therapist to thoroughly and appropriatey assess different movement patterns   2).  Internet connection that is fast enough for video (fast enough if you can stream video, like on Netflix or Facetime).  This can be wifi or cellular data.   3).  After scheduling your appointment, you will receive an e-mail with directions on how to access your visit.

Question 5

What should I expect on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

Before your first visit, your physical therapy will send you electronic forms to fill out, regarding your current and previous health conditions.  Although it may take some time to complete, this is for your safety and for the success of your program.  At the time of your first visit, your physical therapist will get to know you and ask questions to have a better understanding of your expectations and goals.  Once this subjective history is done, your physical therapist will run through a number of strength, flexibility, stability, and movement assessments in order to identify current deficits.  The visit will complete with education about your current condition (if present), your individualized program, and recommendations for you to get started on your road to success.  It is encouraged that you ask any questions that you may have in order to have understanding and MBody ownership in your journey to maximizing your potential.

Question 6

How often will I need to make appointments?

Accepted Answer

This is a decision that is made between you and your provider.  It is dependent on a number of factors, including severity and chronicity of your pain, deficits found in the evaluation, and dedication to your home program.  This could be anywhere from once a week to once a month.

Question 7

Do I need a prescription from my doctor?

Accepted Answer

Louisiana has Direct Access for physical therapy, meaning that you do not need a referral to initiate treatment.  However, MBody You does recommend that you maintain a relationship with your medical doctor.  Our physical therapists prefer to manage your condition with a team approach with all of your healthcare providers.

QUESTIONS?