Frequently Asked Questions

How can we help?

• What to wear?
  Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. If you have a lower extremity injury, bring or wear shorts.
• How many visits in therapy do I need?

  It depends. Your therapist will work with you following your evaluation to best outline a plan specific to your condition. Every condition or surgery is different, therefore, it’s often dependent on multiple factors.

• How early should I arrive for my first appointment?
  We ask all new patients to arrive approximately 15-20 minutes early for their first appointment in order to complete intake paperwork. We make every attempt to be as flexible as possible for all of our patients but being on time is important. We will do our best to stay on time as well.
• What should I bring?
  You’ll need to bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a prescription for therapy from your doctor (if applicable), and your completed forms/paperwork from our website. Oh, and don’t forget a smile!
• What are your hours?
  Each clinic is different so make sure to ask when scheduling. We will make every attempt to be flexible to work with your schedule.
• How long will my appointment take?
  Generally speaking, your first appointment will last approximately an hour. Follow up visit length will depend on a variety of factors including the severity of your injury, your functional goals and your treatment plan. Whether 30 minutes or 2 hours, our effort is directed at a treatment program specific to you and your needs. Your appointments aren’t limited to a 30 minute slot like many other providers in the area.
• How far out should I schedule?
  Depending on your discussions with your treating therapist and your condition, we recommend scheduling follow up visits at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This reserves your time slot on the schedule and ensures that you remain with your physical therapist throughout the duration of your care.
• Will I see a PT?

  Yes, all evaluations are performed by licensed physical therapists with a degree from an accredited physical therapy program. Your treatment will be designed and implemented by your physical therapist.

  Continuity of care is a foundation of Foothills. This means that the same physical therapist will direct your care throughout your time at Foothills. Because of this effort, along with the fact that your appointment will last as long as needed to improve your health, we work as a team utilizing licensed physical therapy assistants (under the direction of a physical therapist) and techs to keep things moving in the clinic.

• Why does it seem so busy?

  Great question! The #1 reason is because Foothills is the best in town. There is usually a reason why some restaurants are really busy and some are really slow. The same goes for physical therapy.

  Additionally, the clinic can seem busy at times due to scheduling flexibility (we try to make it as convenient for our patients as possible) and staffing ratios. For clinics with 6 physical therapists, their patients, and support staff, it can often seem busier than it really is.

  That being said, your perception is important to us. If you have a concern, please bring it to the attention of your physical therapist or the director of the clinic at any time.

• Will my insurance cover therapy?

  Yes. In most cases, your private insurance plan has some level of physical therapy benefits. Because all plans are different, we make every effort to verify benefits and communicate this with you. Much of it depends on your health plan and what they are willing to cover. Fortunately, many people are recognizing the value of physical therapy in reducing healthcare costs through injury prevention, patient education, lifestyle changes, and overall wellness.

  For Medicare patients, physical therapy is covered. Your therapist will work on developing a Plan of Care that meets Medicare requirements.
  For Workers’ Compensation, your medical expenses are covered under the Workers’ Compensation laws in Arizona.

• Can I pay cash?

  Yes, you can. The rates for your initial evaluation and subsequent visits should be discussed with your physical therapist and the clinic director. Be aware that if you are covered under a health plan but decide to pay cash, your payments will not reflect on your deductible, and you will not be able to resubmit those services later to your insurance company.

  Through FAST, there are also cash-based options for sports performance training, personal training and group fitness.

• Do I need a prescription from my doctor?

  Arizona became a direct access state in 2003, eliminating the need for a physician prescription for therapy. Many patients chose a physical therapist to evaluate their musculoskeletal injury first.

  We are a partner in your care and recognize there are certain medical conditions beyond our scope of expertise. We will work with your physician directly or refer you to the appropriate specialist should physical therapy treatment not be appropriate.

  Some private insurance plans still require a physician prescription so we will work with you to determine the necessary next steps. Medicare and Workers’ Compensation both require a physician prescription.