At Optimal Movement, we understand how important time is with our busy lives. We schedule standard physical therapy sessions for 60 minutes, but offer flexibility depending on your needs. At times, a thorough standard evaluation may take upwards of 75 minutes, depending on the complexity and injury.

Wondering what to wear to your physical therapy (PT) visit? We’ve got you covered! At Optimal Movement, we want you to feel comfortable and ready to move during your sessions. Here are some tips on what to wear:

1. Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. This could include athletic wear, yoga pants, or loose-fitting shorts and t-shirts.

2. Stretchy Fabrics: Choose clothing made from stretchy fabrics like cotton blends or moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics will allow you to move comfortably during exercises and stretches.

3. Supportive Footwear: Wear supportive shoes such as athletic sneakers or cross-trainers. Avoid sandals or flip-flops as they may not provide enough support during your exercises.

4. Accessibility: If you have a specific injury or area of concern, consider wearing clothing that allows easy access to that area for assessment and treatment. For example, if you have a knee injury, wearing shorts may be beneficial for your therapist to assess and treat your knee effectively.

5. Avoid Restrictive Clothing: Steer clear of clothing that is too tight or restrictive, as it may limit your movement and hinder your ability to perform exercises comfortably.

Remember, the goal of your PT visit is to improve your mobility and function, so wearing clothing that allows you to move freely and comfortably is key. If you have any specific questions or concerns about what to wear, feel free to reach out to our team at optimal.movementstl@gmail.com

We look forward to helping you on your journey to better movement and health!

How Virtual Physical Therapy Appointments Work

Curious about how virtual physical therapy appointments work? We’re here to guide you through the process!

1. Scheduling: Just like in-person appointments, you’ll start by scheduling a virtual session with one of our experienced physical therapists. You can easily book your appointment online or by contacting our clinic.

2. Platform: We utilize secure and user-friendly video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual sessions. Once your appointment is scheduled, you’ll receive a link to join the virtual session at the designated time.

3. Connection: At the scheduled time, simply click on the provided link to join the virtual session from the comfort of your own home. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone (such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone).

4. Assessment and Treatment: During the virtual session, your physical therapist will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, discuss your symptoms and goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will guide you through a series of exercises, stretches, and movements, providing real-time feedback and adjustments as needed.

5. Education and Support: Throughout the session, your physical therapist will also provide education on your condition, proper techniques for exercises, and strategies for managing symptoms at home. They will answer any questions you may have and offer ongoing support and encouragement to help you achieve your goals.

6. Follow-Up: After the virtual session, your physical therapist may recommend follow-up appointments to track your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and provide ongoing support on your journey to recovery.

Benefits of Virtual Physical Therapy:

• Convenience: Access quality care from the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need for travel.
• Flexibility: Schedule appointments that fit your busy schedule.
• Safety: Stay safe and minimize exposure to illness by avoiding crowded waiting rooms.
• Personalized Care: Receive personalized attention and treatment from our experienced physical therapists.

Ready to experience the convenience and effectiveness of virtual physical therapy? Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward better movement and health!

Note: Please wear appropriate clothing as mentioned above and make sure to have adequate, well-lit space for our appointment.

No! As of recently, Missouri has changed the law and is now a direct access state.This means you no longer need a referral from your doctor or physician to come see us! We can be your first stop when you have an injury or pain. If you happen to see your doctor, we are still happy to accept referrals. You or your doctor can fax a referral to: (314) 237-1035. If you have any issues regarding receiving a script, please don’t hesitate to reach out and we can assist you.

Referrals can come from your primary care physician, nurse practitioner, specialist (ortho, PM&R), urgent care MD, chiropractor or dentist. They may require a visit or only a phone call if you have talked to them about your issue in the past. Don’t have a primary care physician? Keep in mind that many insurance companies contract with telemedicine providers. This can be a fast and convenient way to get a referral for physical therapy. Many insurance companies list/print their preferred telemedicine providers on the back of the insurance card to entice you to use this service. 

What is Private Pay Physical Therapy?

Private pay physical therapy refers to a payment arrangement where patients pay directly for physical therapy services out-of-pocket, without involving third-party insurance companies or government healthcare programs.

How Does it Work?

In private pay physical therapy, patients pay the full cost of each session or a predetermined package of sessions directly to the physical therapy clinic or practitioner. This payment is typically made at the time of service or according to an agreed-upon payment plan.

Benefits of Private Pay Physical Therapy:

1. Flexibility: Private pay physical therapy offers flexibility in scheduling appointments and choosing treatment options, as decisions are made solely between the patient and the physical therapist without the restrictions of insurance coverage.

2. Customized Care: Patients receive personalized, one-on-one attention from their physical therapist, allowing for tailored treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals.

3. No Insurance Hassles: Private pay eliminates the paperwork and administrative hassles associated with insurance billing, streamlining the payment process for both patients and providers.

4. Access to Specialized Services: Patients may have access to specialized services or treatment techniques that may not be covered by insurance, allowing for a broader range of treatment options.

5. Patient-Centered Care: With private pay, the focus remains solely on the patient’s needs and goals, rather than insurance requirements or limitations, ensuring a patient-centered approach to care.

Is Private Pay Physical Therapy Right for You?

Private pay physical therapy can be a great option for individuals who value personalized care, flexibility, and direct access to physical therapy services. It is especially beneficial for those seeking specialized treatments or who prefer to avoid the limitations and complexities of insurance-based care.

At Optimal Movement, we offer private pay physical therapy services tailored to your unique needs and goals. Our experienced physical therapists are dedicated to providing high-quality care and helping you achieve optimal outcomes.

You can still use your insurance, however we are considered an “out of network provider.” It is well-established that private pay physical therapy results in fewer visits than in-network services, at lower total costs to the consumer. This is primarily because you spend 100% of your time with a licensed physical therapist. The rates that private pay clinics like Optimal Movement charge are usually lower than an insurance-based clinic, because there is no middle man.

Staying outside of insurance also gives YOU, the consumer, a much greater say in the amount of and type of care you receive.

We’re pleased to offer the option to pay for our physical therapy services using your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

What are HSA and FSA?

Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) are tax-advantaged accounts that allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses, including physical therapy services. Here’s a brief overview of each:

• Health Savings Account (HSA): An HSA is a savings account that allows individuals with high-deductible health plans to set aside pre-tax money to pay for qualified medical expenses. Contributions to an HSA are tax-deductible, and funds in the account can be used to pay for a wide range of healthcare expenses, including physical therapy services.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA): An FSA is a benefit offered by some employers that allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for qualified medical expenses. Unlike an HSA, funds in an FSA must be used by the end of the plan year or forfeited, although some plans may offer a grace period or carryover provision.

Some benefits include:

• Contributions are pre-taxed
• Contributions are tax deductible
• The list of qualified medical expenses is large (ie: physical therapy, contact lenses, prescriptions, copays, etc)
• Convenience. These accounts issue a debit card so you can pay for expenses.
• HSA Rules and Reminders:
  • All high deductible plans ($1400/indiv, $2800/family) are HSA eligible
  • Contribute up to $7100 pre-tax
  • Set up through employer or direct through bank
  • No expiration or use
  • Fewer restrictions

FSA Rules and Reminders:

• Runs through your employer
• Resets at the end of the year
• Use it or lose it!
• Employer can offer extension or rollover – know your benefits

At Optimal Movement Rehabilitation and Performance, we understand that choosing the right physical therapy provider involves careful consideration of various factors, including insurance coverage. We value transparency and want to provide you with insight into why we operate as an out-of-network provider for physical therapy services.

1. Focus on Quality Care: Our primary focus is on providing high-quality, patient-centered care that prioritizes your needs and goals. Operating as an out-of-network provider allows us to maintain control over the quality of care we deliver, without being constrained by insurance restrictions or limitations.

2. Flexibility in Treatment: Being out of network gives us the flexibility to tailor treatment plans specifically to your needs, rather than adhering to predetermined protocols dictated by insurance companies. This allows us to provide personalized, evidence-based care that optimizes your outcomes.

3. Enhanced Time and Attention: As an out-of-network provider, we prioritize one-on-one time with each patient, ensuring that you receive the attention and support you deserve throughout your treatment journey. This individualized approach fosters a deeper patient-provider relationship and facilitates better communication and understanding.

4. Transparency in Pricing: Operating out of network allows us to be transparent about our pricing structure, avoiding surprises or hidden costs commonly associated with insurance-based care. We believe in providing clear and upfront information about our fees, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.

5. Research Supporting Out-of-Network Care: Research has shown that patients receiving care from out-of-network providers may experience better outcomes and higher levels of satisfaction compared to those receiving in-network care. Studies have also demonstrated that out-of-network providers often spend more time with patients and provide more comprehensive care.

While we understand that being out of network may require additional considerations regarding insurance coverage, we believe that the benefits of our approach to care outweigh these challenges. Our commitment to delivering exceptional physical therapy services remains unwavering, and we are dedicated to partnering with you on your journey to improved health and well-being.

If you have any questions or concerns about our out-of-network status or would like assistance navigating insurance coverage, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

At Optimal Movement, we understand the importance of maximizing your healthcare benefits, even if we operate as an out-of-network provider for physical therapy services. We’re here to guide you through the process of using your out-of-network benefits and submitting a claim to your insurance company.

Using Out-of-Network Benefits:

While we may not be directly contracted with your insurance provider, many insurance plans offer out-of-network benefits that allow you to seek care from providers outside of their network. These benefits often cover a portion of the cost of services, making quality care more accessible and affordable.

To determine if you can use your out-of-network benefits for physical therapy services at Optimal Movement, we recommend contacting your insurance provider directly. Here are the steps involved in using your out-of-network benefits and submitting a claim to your insurance:

1. Verify Coverage: Contact your insurance provider to inquire about your out-of-network physical therapy benefits. Ask about coverage details, including deductible, coinsurance, and any limitations or exclusions that may apply.

2. Schedule an Appointment: Once you’ve confirmed your out-of-network benefits, schedule an appointment with us. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.

3. Pay for Services: At the time of your appointment, you’ll be responsible for paying the full cost of the services rendered. We accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit/debit cards, and flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) cards.

4. Obtain a Detailed Receipt: Upon payment, you will receive a detailed receipt, also known as a superbill, that outlines the services provided, charges incurred, and our provider information.

5. Submit a Claim: You can submit the detailed receipt (superbill) to your insurance company for reimbursement. Follow your insurance provider’s specific instructions for submitting out-of-network claims, which may include mailing the receipt or submitting it online through their member portal.

6. Reimbursement: Once your insurance company processes the claim, they will reimburse you for the eligible portion of the services based on your out-of-network benefits. Reimbursement rates vary depending on your insurance plan and coverage details.

Assistance and Support:

Navigating insurance coverage can sometimes be complex, but our team at Optimal Movement is here to assist you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance with submitting a claim to your insurance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re committed to ensuring that you receive the care you need while maximizing your insurance benefits.

We’re dedicated to providing you with exceptional care and support on your journey to improved health and well-being. Contact us today to schedule your appointment or learn more about our services.

Please note: You may choose to submit bills following each visit, one time per month, or at any other interval, typically up to one year following your treatment visit.