FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

One call that’s all. Simply call our office 925-522-8000, if we don’t answer please leave a message. We will return your call and ask you a few questions about your condition to make sure we give the best fit in our system.  Have some essential information ready including insurance details if you plan to use insurance to cover part of your PT care.

Something comfortable and that allows movement. Please bring a worn pair of shoes in case we need to look at wear patterns. Also, please wear clothing that allows us access to the region, for visualization and hands on purposes, you are requesting to be the focus of the session.

Generally, the first visit there is an extensive history and evaluation. This takes time, expect to be at our location for close to an hour. Follow up appointments are not as long, lasting usually between 30 and 55 minutes. Each treatment approach is specifically tailored to the needs of the patient.

There is a heathy reciprocating discussion and an extensive history process. We value the history so much in some cases that there may be exploration into parts of life and health which can allow for valuable learning of yourself. Please bring all pertinent medical records and if you have a list of dates that is always helpful. We are interested in surgeries, car accidents, head and body trauma, emotional trauma (not necessarily the event but the dates and feelings), digestive issues, autoimmune issues, significant medical illness and medications.

The main focus of our clinic is hands on care. Please bring comfortable clothing that will allow you to expose the region you would like to focus on. You will be treated in every session including the first session. We strive to establish and reach an improvement goal each session. There should be improvement in each session.

This is a tough one. Often there is some soreness after especially the first session. We often release something that has been problematic for a long time, or use muscles that have been dormant. This can lead to some soreness. It is usually not as bad in subsequent session unless we are moving to a new region. If you are sore, drink lots of water and ice is often a good idea. Ice for 20 min on and then give a least an hour before reapplying. If you are concerned feel free to give the office a call and we will discuss a plan.

California has recently allowed direct access for physical therapy. This means that you can come to Kabat & Associates Physical Therapy without a prescription. We do always welcome you to get a prescription as we are best as a part of a team. If you wish to use your insurance to cover part of our services, many will require a physician’s prescription.  We will take time to work with your physician or other health care members of your team to take advantage of all strengths that each can offer your care and get everyone on the same page.

If it’s hard to afford this kind of treatment, we believe all should have an option to receive care at our clinic.

Ask us about our:

  • Care Credit
  • 1 -2 visit /month option.
  • Occasional visit with us while seeking PT elsewhere under a clinic that works directly with your insurance.
  • Free 5 minute consultation to gain our perspective and to keep you in a positive path of care, wherever you may choose to improve your health.

First, it’s important to understand how physical therapy treatment sessions are impacted by out-of-network insurance benefits

If we are out-of-network providers of physical therapy with your insurance, when you seek reimbursement from your insurance, it may be dependent on your insurance plan’s out-of-network coverage.

Very often, once your out of network deductible has been reached, your insurance company will reimburse you directly depending on your out of network benefits.

A superbill is a form completed by medical practitioners that allows patients to be reimbursed directly from their health insurance companies.

  • A superbill does not guarantee that an insurance provider will pay for the services provided. Each insurance plan is different, and it is your responsibility to contact your insurance provider and find out exactly will be covered.

Sending in your superbill for reimbursement

  • To ask your insurance company to reimburse you for services you received from your naturopathic doctor, mail (or submit online, depending on the company) your insurance company the following:
    • The superbill you received from your doctor, and
    • A photocopy of your insurance ID card, front and back.
  • Keep a photocopy of all the documents you send in for your records.

Consider the following steps:

  • Call the customer service phone number listed on your insurance card.
  • Ask, “I want to work with an out-of-network outpatient Physical Therapy service, how much will you reimburse me?”
  • Ask, “What is the best way to submit my claim for reimbursement with a superbill?”
  • Be sure that your insurance plan benefits are clear to you – what should your health plan cover? What health services count toward your deductible?

Release Authorization

Be aware that should you choose to submit a superbill, you are releasing medical information that is protected by law. This means you are waiving some of your rights to privacy and confidentiality. It is standard for your insurance company to keep a record of your diagnoses stated on the superbill as part of your permanent medical file.

In most states including California, Physical Therapy has direct access. This means that a patient can come in for treatment without a doctor’s referral. Not all insurance plans require a medical doctor’s prescription, but some do.