1. Do I need a physician referral?

In California, you can begin physical therapy without a doctor’s referral under the Direct Access law, which allows up to 45 calendar days or 12 visits before a referral is needed. Some insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement—our team will help verify your benefits before your first visit.

2. What should I wear and bring to my first appointment?

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows access to the area we’re treating—similar to gym wear. Bring:

A valid photo ID
Insurance information (primary and secondary as applicable)
Home Health & Medicare recipients: bring Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) if applicable
Referral or plan of care (if required by your insurance)

3. What happens during my first visit?

Review of medical history and symptoms
Assessment of strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility
Personalized plan of care, sometimes with immediate introductory treatment

4. How long does each appointment take?

Most sessions run 35–60 minutes, which includes guided evaluation or therapy, and an at-home exercise program.

5. How many sessions will I need?

This depends on your goals, condition, and progress, typically spanning 4–12 weeks with 1–3 visits per week. We’ll customize a schedule to fit your needs and lifestyle.

6. Will I work with the same therapist each visit?

Yes. At A5 Physical Therapy, you’ll receive dedicated one-on-one care from the same licensed physical therapist throughout your rehabilitation.

7. Is physical therapy painful?

While recovery sometimes involves mild, manageable soreness—especially post-exercise or manual therapy—our therapists will monitor your comfort and adjust treatment to avoid undue pain.

8. Do I need to do home exercises?

Yes! Consistency with prescribed home exercises is crucial for long-term success. We’re here to guide you and make the program feasible to follow.

9. How much does it cost, and will insurance cover it?

We accept most major insurers, including Medicare, auto, and workers’ compensation. For self-pay patients, we offer competitive cash rates and package options. Exact costs or co-pays vary depending on your plan—we’ll verify your coverage before your first session.

10. What is your cancellation & no-show policy?

Cancellation Notice: Notify us at least 24 hours in advance to cancel or reschedule.
Late Cancellations & No-Shows: $25 fee for late cancellations, $75 for no-show (not billable to insurance).
Workers’ Compensation Cases: We notify your case manager or treating physician for missed visits.
Repeated Missed Appointments: After 3 late/no-shows, we reserve the right to discontinue future scheduling.

11. What should I do if my condition or healthcare situation changes during your care?

Notify us promptly if there’s any change in medical or physical condition (e.g., pain, falls, swelling, new symptoms).
Inform us of new or modified doctor/dental appointments, IV, Home Health, or private Physical Therapy.
Report if you begin receiving other healthcare services (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage, personal training).

A5 Physical Therapy

Health is very important for all of us because, without good health, every human being will find it difficult to carry out their daily activities. Health is a state of physical, mental, and social well-being.