Frequently Asked Questions
Find clear answers about scheduling, insurance, therapy sessions, and our service locations to help you prepare for your mobile therapy experience.
General Questions
Do I need a physician referral to start my in-home therapy service?
In Maryland, Direct Access allows you to begin both Physical and Occupational Therapy without a physician’s referral for the first 30 days.
While you can start your evaluation and treatment immediately, keep in mind that most insurance providers—including Medicare—require a doctor to sign off on your Plan of Care within that first month to continue treatment and ensure your visits are covered.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be booked by calling our office. You can also inquire in our Contact page. We offer flexible times to accommodate your availability.
Do I need to be homebound to qualify?
No. Unlike home health services, our program is designed for patients who are not homebound and are appropriate for outpatient (Part B) therapy.
What should I expect during the intake process?
During intake, a therapist will review your medical history, assess your current condition, and discuss your therapy goals to create a personalized plan.Do you accept insurance?
We accept Medicare Part B insurance. Our team will verify your coverage and help you understand any out-of-pocket costs before your first session.
I have Medicare Part B insurance. Will it cover 100% of my visits?
Generally, no. Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for the covered services. You are usually responsible for the remaining 20% co-insurance after you have met your annual part B deductible.
What happens during a therapy session?
Sessions include guided exercises, functional training, and education tailored to your needs, all conducted in the comfort of your home.What are your service areas?
Click hereFor more detailed information, check out our contact page.
How do I request for my records?
To obtain a copy of your records, please reach out to our office and send an email request to records@nextstep-rehab.com.
How do I know which service is right for me?
Our team will guide you based on your needs and goals. Many clients benefit from combining services to address safety, mobility, and long-term independence.
Telehealth
What is telehealth therapy?
Telehealth therapy allows you to meet with a licensed physical or occupational therapist through secure video visits from your home. Sessions are guided in real time and may include movement assessments, exercise progression, safety training, and education.
Is telehealth therapy effective?
Yes. Research and clinical practice show telehealth is effective for many conditions, especially:
- Balance and fall prevention
- Post-surgical recovery (selected cases)
- Chronic pain management
- Functional mobility training
However, some conditions may require hands-on care. In those cases, we use a hybrid model (telehealth + in-person) to ensure the best outcomes.
Who is a good candidate for telehealth therapy?
Telehealth may be appropriate if you:
- Can follow instructions and participate safely at home
- Have a caregiver available (if needed)
- Need guidance, progression, or monitoring rather than hands-on treatment
If your condition requires manual therapy or detailed physical examination, we will recommend in-person care.
Do I need any special equipment?
No special equipment is required. You only need:
- A smartphone, tablet, or computer
- Internet connection
- A safe space to move
Your therapist will guide you using items already in your home whenever possible.
What types of therapy services can be done via telehealth?
Common telehealth services include:
- Therapeutic exercise
- Neuromuscular re-education
- Gait and balance training
- Functional mobility and ADL training
- Home safety assessments
- Caregiver training
Is telehealth secure and HIPAA-compliant?
Yes. We specialize in a hybrid care model, allowing you to:
- Start with telehealth
- Transition to in-home visits
- Combine both for optimal recovery
This flexibility improves outcomes and continuity of care.
Can i attend telehealth while travelling?
Whether you can do telehealth depends on your destination. For licensing reasons, your therapist must be authorized to practice in the state where you are physically located during your appointment.
When are telehealth appointments available?
All telehealth sessions are conducted from our practice locations.
Our current telehealth windows are:
- Morning Sessions: 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Afternoon Sessions: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Please contact your licensed therapist regarding their availability.
Additional Services
Wellness Coaching
What is wellness coaching?
Wellness coaching focuses on maintaining and improving your strength, balance, and mobility after therapy or as a preventative approach to stay active and independent.
Is this covered by insurance?
Wellness coaching is a cash-based service and is not billed through insurance. However, some plans may offer fitness reimbursements.
Who is this program for?
- Individuals who have completed therapy
- Those wanting to prevent decline or falls
- Anyone looking to stay active and independent at home
What types of activities are included?
Sessions may include strength training, balance exercises, mobility work, and functional movement training tailored to your daily needs.
How is this different from physical therapy?
Physical therapy focuses on treating specific medical conditions, while wellness coaching focuses on maintaining progress, preventing decline, and supporting long-term independence.
Safe Driving Risk Screening
What is a Safe Driving Risk Screening?
This is a session that evaluates the physical and cognitive skills needed for safe driving, such as strength, coordination, reaction time, and the ability to safely get in and out of a vehicle.
Is this a driving test or official clearance?
No. This is not a formal driving evaluation or clearance. We focus on preparing you and identifying potential risks. If needed, we will refer you to a certified driving rehabilitation specialist for further evaluation.
Who is this program for?
- Older adults wanting to continue driving safely
- Individuals recovering from injury, surgery, or neurological conditions
- Families concerned about a loved one’s driving safety
What happens if concerns are identified?
We will discuss findings with you and your family and recommend next steps, which may include exercises, safety strategies, or referral to a specialist.
Where does the screening take place?
Sessions are conducted in your home or assisted living facility (ALF) for comfort and convenience.
Home Safety & Modification Coordination
What is Home Safety & Modification Coordination?
This service evaluates your home environment to identify safety risks and provides guidance on modifications, equipment, and improvements to help you move safely and independently.
What areas of the home are assessed?
We review key areas such as entryways, stairs, bathrooms, bedrooms, and common living spaces.
Do you install equipment or perform home modifications?
No. We provide recommendations and coordinate with trusted vendors or contractors, but you are free to choose any provider.
What types of recommendations might be made?
Grab bars and bathroom safety Lift chairs (including options from Golden Technologies) Stair safety solutions such as railings or stair lifts Furniture and layout adjustments
Is this covered by insurance?
This is a consulting and wellness-based service and is not typically covered by insurance.
Who benefits most from this service?
- Individuals at risk for falls
- Those recovering from injury or surgery
- Families planning for aging in place
- Caregivers wanting to improve safety at home
Will I receive a report?
Yes. You will receive a detailed home safety report with clear recommendations and next steps.
Get Started with Next Step Rehab
Our team is ready to support your recovery journey with expert care delivered directly to your home.
Contact us to arrange your first appointment.