Frequently Asked Questions

About Us > FAQs
Getting Started
Can I go directly to a physical therapist?
Yes. In the state of Pennsylvania, the Direct Access Law allows patients to be treated by a certified Direct Access Physical Therapist for 30 days without a prescription from a physician. Go to our Direct Access page for full information!
How should I dress?
You should wear comfortable clothes that are not restrictive to movement and closed toe shoes like a sneaker.
What conditions does physical therapy treat?
Physical Therapy at St. Luke’s sees and treats patient for a wide range of conditions and diagnoses.  Please visit our Services pages for a list of conditions and diagnoses we see patients for.
How can I arrange a free consultation?
If you already know which one of our physical therapy facilities you would like to go to for a free consultation, directly call to schedule. This is a 10-15 minute screen to determine if physical therapy is right for you. If you are unsure of which location to go to or which location is closest to you, please call our administration office so we may answer any questions and direct you to a nearby location at 484-526-5025.
Insurance and Payment
How do I know if my insurance covers physical therapy services?
We will check with your health insurance provider to determine if outpatient physical therapy services are covered under your plan. We recommend that you confirm your insurance coverage.
How does the billing process work?
When treatment is performed, we bill by the rules of your insurance plan/coverage. The bill then gets processed by the hospital and billed to you if a balance remains.
What are your fees for therapy?
Fees and associated costs for therapy will depend on the type of treatment modalities needed to best treat your condition.
Can I arrange to self-pay for my physical therapy?
Yes, the choice is entirely yours to receive our services as a self-pay patient. We have a cash basis fee schedule. For additional information paying for your physical therapy services, call the physical therapy clinic that you are interested in being seen at.
About your visit
Does it take long to see improvement in my condition?
Your therapist will review your treatment plan with you and set goals for you to reach and will approximate your time in therapy which will be depended on your progress.
Will my therapist communicate with my doctor about my treatment of progress?
Our therapists will communicate with your physician to provide updates and progress of your treatment in helping alleviate your symptoms or helping you restore functionality.
Will I have the same therapist for all my visits?
Your evaluating physical therapist will be in charge of developing and implementing your plan of care. Along with your physical therapists, you may also work with and be treated by a physical therapist assistant (PTA). There may be times where your therapist is not available (sick time, vacation time, etc.) and another one of our therapists will provide coverage.
How do I cancel or reschedule my appointment?
Call the facility in which you go to for all your regular appointments. You may also call our administration office at (484)-526-5025.
After discharge from physical therapy
What do I do if my problem or pain returns?
Flare ups are not uncommon. If you have a flare up (exacerbation), give us a call. We may suggest you come back to see us, return to your doctor, or simply modify your daily activities or exercise routine.
Do you have any programs once I am finished with my physical therapy?
Once you are completed with therapy, you have the option at the majority of our locations to continue onto a fitness program. Go to our Fitness Page for full information and associated costs.
Miscellaneous
Are there physical therapist specialists?
Physical Therapy at St. Luke’s is proud to have  physical and occupational therapists on staff who have obtained and achieved advanced certifications in orthopaedics, sports, hand therapy, geriatric, and manual therapy.
What is the difference between a physical therapist and a physical therapist assistant?
The Physical Therapist (PT) and the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) differ in educational preparation and levels of responsibilities as it relates to the provision of physical therapy services. The PTA must always work under the supervision of a physical therapist. The collaborative relationship between the PT/PTA is highly effective and valued, and the team greatly contributes to the success of the overall rehabilitation process. Your first visit will be completed by a physical therapist.
Does Physical Therapy at St. Luke's offer interpretation services?
Yes we do. At the time you call to schedule your first appointment, notify the individual who is setting you up your appointment for you so we may obtain services that will maximize your therapy appointment.