NEW PATIENTS
Start With a Clear Plan for Moving Forward
Your first visit is designed to help us understand what is limiting you, explain what we find, and build a treatment plan around your goals. Every appointment is one-on-one with a Doctor of Physical Therapy.
THE EVALUATION
Your First Appointment, Step by Step
The evaluation is more than a brief screening. It gives us time to understand your concerns, assess relevant physical factors, and begin developing a plan that fits your needs.
Talk Through the Problem
We begin by discussing how the problem started, what makes it better or worse, previous treatment, medical history, and the activities you want to regain.
Assess Movement and Function
Your examination may include mobility, strength, balance, endurance, coordination, neurological screening, or activity-specific testing.
Explain What We Find
We will review the findings in understandable terms and discuss the factors that appear most relevant to your symptoms and limitations.
Build the Treatment Plan
Together, we establish priorities, expected progression, visit frequency when appropriate, and the first steps toward your goals.
PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT
What to Bring and What to Wear
A little preparation helps us spend more of your appointment focused on your evaluation and treatment.
Photo ID and Insurance Card
Bring a current photo ID and your insurance information when using insurance benefits.
Relevant Medical Information
Bring any referral, surgical protocol, imaging report, operative report, or other information that may be useful.
Comfortable Clothing
Wear clothing that allows the affected area to be examined and lets you move comfortably during testing and exercise.
Your Questions and Goals
Think about what you want to return to, what concerns you most, and any questions you want addressed during the visit.
INSURANCE & REFERRALS
We Will Help You Understand the Next Steps
Insurance requirements vary by plan. Coverage, referrals, authorizations, visit limits, and patient responsibility may differ even between plans from the same insurer.
Insurance Verification
We can review the insurance information available to us, but final payment and coverage decisions are made by your insurance company.
Referral Requirements
Some patients can begin without a referral, while certain insurance plans, postoperative cases, or claim types may require one.
Authorization Requirements
Some plans require authorization before or during care. We will communicate with you when additional information is needed.
Self-Pay Options
Self-pay care may also be available for patients who prefer not to use insurance or whose requested service is not covered.
AFTER YOUR EVALUATION
What Happens Next?
Your treatment plan will reflect your needs rather than a predetermined package. Visit frequency and duration depend on your condition, progress, goals, insurance requirements, and ability to work independently.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up appointments build on the evaluation and may include progressive exercise, movement retraining, education, hands-on treatment, or other appropriate interventions.
Progress Tracking
We reassess meaningful measures such as strength, mobility, balance, tolerance, confidence, or activity performance to guide progression.
Home Recommendations
You may receive exercises, activity guidance, or self-management strategies designed to reinforce progress between appointments.
Long-Term Independence
The goal is not indefinite treatment. We want you to develop the knowledge and physical capacity to manage confidently beyond therapy.
NORTH RALEIGH LOCATION
Oak City Physical Therapy
5711 Six Forks RoadSuite 102
Raleigh, NC 27609
Questions before your appointment? Contact the clinic and we will help you determine what information you need.
NEW PATIENT QUESTIONS
Before Your First Appointment
How long is the first appointment?
Evaluations are scheduled to allow time for a detailed history, examination, discussion of findings, and initial recommendations. Your confirmation will include the scheduled appointment time.
Will I receive treatment during the first visit?
Initial treatment is often included when appropriate and time allows. The priority is first understanding your condition and ensuring that the treatment plan is appropriate.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move and provides access to the area being evaluated. Athletic clothing is often helpful but is not required.
Do I need imaging before starting physical therapy?
Many patients can begin with a clinical evaluation. Imaging may be appropriate after significant trauma, suspected fracture, progressive neurological changes, surgical planning, or other concerning findings.
Do I need a referral?
Referral requirements vary by insurance plan, diagnosis, claim type, and medical circumstances. Contact the clinic when you are unsure.
Can I complete paperwork before arriving?
When electronic forms are available, complete them before your visit so more appointment time can be spent discussing your concerns and beginning the evaluation.
Can I choose which therapist I see?
You may request Trevor or DJ when scheduling. Availability may vary, but we will make every effort to accommodate your preference.
What if I am unsure whether physical therapy is appropriate?
Contact the clinic with a brief description of your concerns. We can help determine whether scheduling an evaluation is a reasonable next step or whether another provider may be more appropriate.