How to Compare Physical Therapists
Physical therapists complete medical training programs of 4 to 6 years in length. While the reputations of some programs speaks for themselves, finding a qualified therapist to treat you can provide a huge benefit to your personal wellness and healing. As part of the medical community, physical therapists provide much needed services like massage, strengthening instruction and rehabilitation treatments. Follow these steps to compare your community therapists to find the right fit for your personal needs.
Things You'll Need:
Computer with Internet access
Create Evaluation Criteria
1
Write important criteria down and prepare a list of questions you can ask over the phone or in person. A quick stop into a physical therapy office may be the best way to get a flavor of the environment.
2
Determine what factors are most important when choosing a therapist. If their availability is your top concern, ask about whether or not extended hours are offered during the week or if they take weekend appointments.
3
Think about your needs first. If you're treating an injury that requires specialized care, make sure you ask the therapist about their experience with specific treatments. You may receive a recommendation to see a different therapist who can better rehabilitate your injury.
4
Find out what additional training the therapist has completed. Uncovering specific techniques or methods may help you determine your confidence in their abilities.
5
Ask if the therapist volunteers time or services to the community. Often, therapists who are invested in the local area, provide better overall care.
Compare Patient Care Standards
1
Notice whether or not the therapist takes extra time answering your questions and addressing your concerns. You may be able to tell by their answers if there is a genuine concern for patient care, or if they're more concerned with the financial bottom line.
2
Compare notes with others. Ask friends and relatives for referrals. Find out what their outcomes have been.
3
Get a feel for whether the therapist values your time or not. If they're constantly running behind for appointments, timely patient care may not be an important factor in their practice.
4
Look to the "National Institutes of Health" Web site to gain a better understanding of standards of care (see Resources below).
Tips & Warnings
Compare online the service menus of local providers to narrow down the number of therapists providing patient care in your area.
Ask if a plan is available for treatments lasting more than 4 sessions. Reduced rates may be offered if you enroll in a pre-paid plan.
Don't consult your physical therapist in an emergency situation. Seek proper immediate treatment for advanced injuries or if you experience a fall resulting in nausea or blurred vision. Keep your primary physician informed if you develop any new symptoms from physical therapy.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2033130_compare-physical-therapists.html
Physical therapists complete medical training programs of 4 to 6 years in length. While the reputations of some programs speaks for themselves, finding a qualified therapist to treat you can provide a huge benefit to your personal wellness and healing. As part of the medical community, physical therapists provide much needed services like massage, strengthening instruction and rehabilitation treatments. Follow these steps to compare your community therapists to find the right fit for your personal needs.
Things You'll Need:
Computer with Internet access
Create Evaluation Criteria
1
Write important criteria down and prepare a list of questions you can ask over the phone or in person. A quick stop into a physical therapy office may be the best way to get a flavor of the environment.
2
Determine what factors are most important when choosing a therapist. If their availability is your top concern, ask about whether or not extended hours are offered during the week or if they take weekend appointments.
3
Think about your needs first. If you're treating an injury that requires specialized care, make sure you ask the therapist about their experience with specific treatments. You may receive a recommendation to see a different therapist who can better rehabilitate your injury.
4
Find out what additional training the therapist has completed. Uncovering specific techniques or methods may help you determine your confidence in their abilities.
5
Ask if the therapist volunteers time or services to the community. Often, therapists who are invested in the local area, provide better overall care.
Compare Patient Care Standards
1
Notice whether or not the therapist takes extra time answering your questions and addressing your concerns. You may be able to tell by their answers if there is a genuine concern for patient care, or if they're more concerned with the financial bottom line.
2
Compare notes with others. Ask friends and relatives for referrals. Find out what their outcomes have been.
3
Get a feel for whether the therapist values your time or not. If they're constantly running behind for appointments, timely patient care may not be an important factor in their practice.
4
Look to the "National Institutes of Health" Web site to gain a better understanding of standards of care (see Resources below).
Tips & Warnings
Compare online the service menus of local providers to narrow down the number of therapists providing patient care in your area.
Ask if a plan is available for treatments lasting more than 4 sessions. Reduced rates may be offered if you enroll in a pre-paid plan.
Don't consult your physical therapist in an emergency situation. Seek proper immediate treatment for advanced injuries or if you experience a fall resulting in nausea or blurred vision. Keep your primary physician informed if you develop any new symptoms from physical therapy.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2033130_compare-physical-therapists.html
