Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect during my first physical therapy visit?

At your first appointment, you can expect the following:

  • Prior to your appointment, you can download the necessary paperwork, fill it out, and bring it in with you. Or, if you do not have access to the internet, please arrive at the clinic at least 15 minutes early to fill out the necessary paperwork.
  • Please remember to bring with you the prescription you were given by your doctor. Please give this to the receptionist upon arrival.
  • Please provide us with your insurance card, so that we can make a copy of it. If applicable, please bring your workers’ compensation or no fault information with you as well.
  • The physical therapist will complete an initial evaluation, taking anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Collectively, you and the physical therapist will establish goals and a treatment plan based on your specific needs and diagnosis.

Can I choose where I go for physical therapy services?

Yes. Your doctor provides you with the prescription, and it is then your choice where you attend you physical therapy sessions based on convenience of location, the level of experience of the physical therapist, transportation, and the hours of operation.

Do I need a prescription from my doctor to come to physical therapy?

No. New York State currently allows patients to have the right to direct access to physical therapy without a prescription from the doctor for 10 visits or within a 30 day time period. After that, a prescription is needed. However, it is very important for you to check with your insurance provider to see if physical therapy services without a prescription will be covered. Most insurance companies in New York State do NOT cover physical therapy services without a prescription. If this is the case, then the patient will be responsible for the cost of the service.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring your physical therapy prescription or referral from your doctor, and your insurance information. Also, be sure to dress comfortably, in loose-fit clothing to be able to expose the target area. Sneakers or athletic shoes are encouraged.

What insurance programs do you accept?

Most insurance plans are accepted. We participate in

    • Aetna
    • Blue Cross/Blue Shield
    • Community Blue
    • Cigna
    • GHI
    • HMO-sponsored Medicaid programs.
    • Independent Health
    • MPNI
    • No-Fault
    • Optum Health
    • Today’s Options
    • Tricare
    • United Healthcare
    • Univera
    • Workers’ Compensation

      At this time, we do not accept Fidelis or Medicaid. Please contact our office at (716) 674-1509 if your insurance plan does not appear on this list. It may be possible to contact your provider and discuss the specifics of your health care plan for physical therapy in order to become an in-network provider.

      Do you accept credit cards?

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      Yes, Performance Sports Physical Therapy accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Discover card to cover co-payments. This service has been extended to our clients at their request to better accommodate their financial concerns as they go through the rehabilitation process.

      Do you accept Workers’ Compensation and No Fault insurance?

      Yes. We accept both Workers’ Compensation and No Fault insurance. Prior to scheduling your first appointment, we need to verify information. You will need to provide us with your insurance company’s name, address, phone number, the adjuster’s name, and your claim number. We contact the insurance company to verify information, and will then contact you for your first appointment.

      I have an old prescription. How long is a physician’s prescription good for?

      A doctor’s prescription is only good for 30 days. You doctor’s office can fax a new prescription to 716.674.1787.

      Do I have a co-pay and how much is it?

      Patients are encouraged to call their insurance companies prior to their visit to determine their co-pays. We do verify co-pays and insurance coverage at or before the first visit.

      What if I need to cancel my appointment?

      Please contact our office at 716.674.1509 prior to your appointment time, preferably within 24 hours. This will allow us ample time to offer this time slot to another patient.

      What should I wear?

      Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that will expose the area that requires treatment. Sneakers or athletic shoes are encouraged as well.

      What are your hours of operation?

      The hours of operation are:
      Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 7 am to 5 pm
      Tuesday and Friday from 7 am to 2 pm.

      Please call 716.674.1509 to schedule an appointment.

      What is Manual Therapy?

      Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment approach utilized by physical therapists to treat soft tissue injuries and joint structure limitations. The purpose of manual therapy is to modulate pain, improve range of motion, increase relaxation, decrease tissue inflammation, improve tissue elasticity and stability, and improve motion and function.

      In manual therapy, physical therapists use their hands to put pressure on muscle tissue and mobilize joints to assist in decreasing pain related to muscle spasms and tension, as well as joint dysfunction.

      Will I see the same therapist throughout my visits at Performance Sports Physical Therapy?

      Yes, in most instances. Every effort is made by the staff at Performance Sports Physical Therapy to keep you consistently with the same therapist on every visit. Exceptions to this would be made to accommodate individual patient’s schedules and staff vacations/time off.

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