The next time you refer a patient to physical therapy, ask yourself the following questions
Physician Resource
Am I aware that not all physical therapists or physical therapy clinics are created equal?
Just like not all physicians are created equal.
Am I referring a patient to a clinic purely based on location alone?
We like to use the car analogy in this situation. We would personally not take our cars to a mechanic that is close to our house and convenient. We would be willing to drive across town to make sure our car gets the best service possible. Why would we have lower standards for our body and our health by choosing a physician or physical therapist that is closest to our house?
Am I familiar with all of the physical therapists that work in the clinic I have referred my patient to?
Sending a patient to a clinic you know very little about is like prescribing a medication that you are not familiar with.
Will my patient be seeing the same doctor of physical therapy (not physical therapy aide or technician) every single visit?
With the rising cost of healthcare and increasing co-payment amounts, EVERY SINGLE VISIT THE PATIENT HAS TO PHYSICAL THERAPY SHOULD INVOLVE A RE-ASSESSMENT BY A PHYSICAL THERAPIST IN ORDER TO MINIMIZE THE NUMBER OF VISITS NEEDED.
Will my patient receive a better understanding of general health and wellness by attending physical therapy sessions?
Could referring them to physical therapy prompt an interest in trying to maintain a healthier lifestyle overall?
More Questions To Ask Yourself
Would I send a family member to the clinic to which I have referred my patient?
Will my patient be happy with my referral and if not, will it reflect on me and my concern for their health?
Will my patient be educated on exercises that need to be performed independent of their physical therapy sessions that decrease symptoms and the risk for re-injury?
Will my patient have a positive experience, regardless of outcomes?