Frequently Asked Questions

Should I arrive early for my first appointment?

You should arrive 15-20 minutes early to your first appointment to complete the registration process. Your first appointment will consist of an evaluation to determine your therapy needs and establish a plan for your care.

Do I need to bring anything with me to the first appointment?

Bring your prescription for therapy from your physician, if you have it. Please also bring your photo identification and insurance card. If you were mailed a registration packet, please bring completed forms with you. Forms are also available online.

What should I wear?

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing that will allow you to move easily and also allow your therapist to get to the body part or area to be treated. If you are participating in Aquatic Therapy, you should wear a swimsuit and bring a towel. You may wear a t-shirt/shorts over your bathing suit. It is recommended that you also wear pool shoes for safety.

What should I expect if I am referred for Aquatic Therapy?

You will not get in the pool during your first visit. Your first appointment will consist of the evaluation in the clinic to determine if Aquatic Therapy is appropriate for you. You will get a tour of the aquatic facility, and your appointments will be scheduled. You will also be issued our Aquatic Therapy Policies handout. Please arrive early to your aquatic therapy session to allow time to get your locker and change prior to your scheduled appointment. Treatment in the pool will consist of individualized exercise instruction.

How often will I be expected to attend therapy?

This will be determined by both you and your therapist at your first appointment. Additional follow up appointments may be scheduled at that time.

How do I keep track of when I have more appointments?

You will be issued a handout of your appointments after your first session. As a service to you, you will also receive a reminder call the business day prior to your appointment.

What is the “No Show Policy”?

Consistent attendance is necessary to get the best results from therapy. If you feel you cannot attend regularly for any reason, please discuss this with your therapist. If you fail to show up for 2 appointments without informing the clinic of your absence, your remaining appointment may be automatically canceled. This is to better serve the needs of all patients. If you know you are unable to make an appointment and need to cancel, please let your therapist know as soon as possible. Please see our No-Show Guidelines.

Is it okay if I need to cancel an appointment?

We understand that circumstances arise when you may not be able to attend your appointment. Please inform the clinic as soon as possible if you are unable to attend an appointment.

What is your winter weather policy?

We try not to close our clinic during times of winter weather; however, our main concern is safety- both for you and for our staff. If you feel you cannot safely attend your appointment, please stay at home. Please call our clinic as soon as you know you will not be attending, and your appointment may be rescheduled. Please review our Inclement Weather Plan to obtain information on our clinic’s policy for winter weather.

Will my therapist keep my doctor informed regarding my progress with therapy?

Your physician will receive a copy of your evaluation report. Progress reports will also be sent to your physician throughout your course of care and prior to any doctor’s appointments.

What happens after discharge from therapy?

At Outpatient Therapy, our focus is to teach you how to manage your symptoms. We may provide you with a home exercise program to continue on your own once therapy is completed. Augusta Health Fitness also provides a variety of programs offered in individual or group settings for a wide range of skill level that may further assist you in meeting your goals.