Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does physical therapy cost?

The cost to patients varies with different health insurance policies. Physical therapy treatments are tailored to meet individual patient goals, schedules, and needs and vary widely in type and duration. We recognize the importance of staying within your budget while seeking PT services and we will work with you to find a mutually agreeable payment plan that you can afford.

 

2. How much will my insurance reimburse?

Each policy is different and there is a very wide variety of insurance reimbursement structures. Our billing department will be happy to find out what your insurance benefits are and keep you updated as you progress in PT.

 

3. What types of insurance do you accept?

We accept all types of insurance including private insurance, workers compensation, motor vehicle, Medicare, Medicaid, and VA. Please see our web site list of preferred providers.

 

4. Is Sapphire Physical Therapy a preferred provider?

We are a preferred provider for most of the insurance providers we regularly work with. If we are not a preferred provider for your insurance, we will accept the in-network rate that your insurance company assigns to the patient while we move to become a preferred provider.

 

5. Why should I choose a preferred provider?

A preferred provider contracts with an insurance company or insurance network is an agreement to accept a discounted rate for their services. In exchange, insurance company recommends the health care provider to their patients, and offers the patient financial incentives (ie. Lower deductible and/or co-payment) to seek the services of preferred providers.

For example, an insurance policy may pay benefits at 80/20 (insurance pays 80%, patient responsible for 20%) of the allowable (discounted) charges with an in-network preferred provider, however the same policy may only pay 50/50 of the actual charges for an out-of-network provider. In the in-network situation the savings are passed on to the patient while in the out-of-network case the patient responsibility is much greater.

 

6. What does physical therapy entail?

Physical therapists are extensively trained to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal injuries and pain. Therapeutic exercise and manual therapy using hands on techniques increase range of motion, reduce pain, and restore function. Physical therapy also includes patient education and pain reducing modalities such as Ultrasound and Interferential Current.

 

7. What other services do you provide?

In addition to traditional physical therapy treatments we also specialize in Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE), custom biomechanic bike fitting, custom orthotics, and work hardening.   We also offer an exercise punch card for our patients want to continue to come to Sapphire PT and exercise after they have completed physical therapy.  This allows them continue exercising in a safe, motivating, and comfortable environment.

 

8. Do I need a doctor prescription to begin physical therapy?

Montana is one of over forty states which permits direct access. Direct access enables Montanans to be evaluated and treated by a licensed physical therapist without a doctor referral. Some insurance providers, however, require a doctor referral or prescription for insurance payment. Call your insurance provider or Sapphire Physical Therapy for assistance in determining your physical therapy benefits.

 

9. My work hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. How can I participate in physical therapy without missing work?

Sapphire Physical Therapy is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Early morning and evening appointments are available for working patients.

 

10. I want to learn more about my injury. Do you have any information that I can access to find out whether or not physical therapy will help me?

Please email us your question and one of our physical therapists will answer you. A physical therapy consultation or evaluation, however, is the most accurate means of diagnosing an injury and prescribing the most effective treatment.