What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
An Orthopedic Surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, muscles, and any related painful conditions.
What is a Physiatrist (Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician)?
A Physiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the non-surgical treatment of the musculoskeletal system, including neurological studies.
What is a Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician?
Primary care sports medicine physicians are leaders in the field of sports medicine. They are involved in research and education and also have a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. Either through advanced fellowship training or through years of clinical experience, primary care sports medicine physicians have learned the skills to take care of athletes of all ages, sports and levels of competition. Some of them serve as team physicians to professional sports teams or are personal physicians to elite level athletes. However, they all have experience in taking care of the collegiate or high school athlete and have a broad knowledge of most sports from team sports to extreme sports. Many sports medicine physicians also are or were athletes themselves and therefore have firsthand experience in how injuries and illnesses specifically affect athletes.
What is the difference between board eligible and board-certified?
When a physician has completed an orthopedic residency and/or fellowship training, the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery offers a written test to become board eligible. If the written test is passed, the physician becomes “eligible” to take the oral test, after two years in practice. When the physician passes the oral exam, the physician becomes “board certified” and is considered a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
The intent of the certification process, as defined by the board members of the American Board of Medical Specialties, is to provide assurance to the public that a certified medical specialist has successfully completed an approved educational program and an evaluation, including an examination process designed to assess the knowledge, experience, and skills requisite to the provision of high quality patient care in that specialty.
What is a Physician Assistant?
Physician Assistants are health care professionals licensed to practice
medicine with physician supervision. Physician Assistants see patients
in the office, as well as assist the physicians in surgery.
Physical Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Physical Therapist?
Physical Therapists are licensed by the state, specializing in therapy programs for musculoskeletal injuries and disorders, sports injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, and massage therapy.
What is an Occupational Therapist?
Occupational Therapists are licensed by the state and specialize in
the treatment of the upper extremity and work injuries. The services
provided by occupational therapists include patient education, joint
range of motion, adaptive techniques, splinting and workplace evaluations.
Do I need to see a AASTHA Physician to have therapy at a AASTHA facility?
No, you do not need to be treating with a AASTHA physician to have
therapy at one of the AASTHA facilities.
What insurance does AASTHA accept? How will I know if my insurance
covers therapy?
We accept most insurance carriers. Call us with your insurance information
and we will verify your coverage.
Is AASTHA's physical therapy a Medicare Provider?
Yes, we accept Medicare.
What are the hours of operation?
The AASTHA physical therapy facilities are open Monday through Friday
from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. We are also open on some Saturdays.
What do I need to bring with me?
Bring your physical therapy referral/prescription and a copy of
your insurance card.
How should I dress?
You should wear or bring comfortable, loose fitting clothing.
How long will my visit take?
Expect to spend about 45-60 minutes on your initial visit. Follow-up
visits will vary depending upon your plan of care.
Is my Therapist licensed? Will I work with the same therapist on
each visit?
All of our Physical and Occupational Therapists are licensed, as
are our Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs). You will be seen by one
of our licensed and highly trained physical/occupational therapists
each visit. Your evaluating therapist will be your primary caregiver
unless otherwise requested.
What happens on my first visit?
During your first visit youc an expect to be evaluated by your therapist,
who will assess your current problem or complaints, set your goals for
physical therapy and work out a treatment plan to help you meet the
goals and objectives set by you, your physician and your therapist.
