I received a prescription for physical therapy due to a bone fracture that caused mobility issues. I called to find a place that wouldn't interfere with my work schedule - RWJ said they had early morning, evening, and weekend appointments. The initial assessment appointment was not available during those times so I took time off of work to establish what I needed out of PT. Their finding - I can walk all right. I told them uneven surfaces and stairs were an issue. Although there is the impression that each appointment will last 60 minutes, they only last 40 minutes. Do not be fooled by signing paperwork that if the patient is 10 minutes late, they will be charged and may not receive treatment. Appointment 2 and 3 were basically the same - appointment is for 3:30pm (all their weekend, early morning, and evening appointments are not truly available until someone stops PT or dies). I signed in at 3:15pm. At 3:50 pm, the therapist came out and called my name. The first ten minutes is sitting with heat on the area. About five minutes of massage and discussion of how it feels, how many falls as knee gave out, etc. Five minutes of exercise - I was asked to stand on one leg, then the other, then the bad leg again. I was told they wanted me to be able to balance on one foot for 60 seconds straight. Then 10 minutes on a stationary bike. Then 10 minutes of ice, followed by good-bye. To sum up: I am taking time off of work for very little interaction with a therapist, and no special equipment was needed to balance on one leg. That seemed more like an exercise for home.
UPDATE: I noticed RWJ was leaving vague daily messages for me at work. I initially thought it was to get me to come back so didn't call back right away. After another daily call, I caved and returned the call to tell them to stop calling me at work. The reason for the calls is once there is a balance due they will call the person daily at their place of employment until the balance is paid in full. These daily calls to work places could begin before the initial bill has been received by the patient. read more