Physical therapy has changed the lives of patients the world over, by enabling them to recover from serious injuries and regain their quality of life. By working with their patients, their patients’ families, and colleagues, physical therapists create management programs that encourage and educate clients of all ages, helping them to recover from health issues and to stay healthy throughout their lifespan. If you own or manage a physical therapy practice, there are a number of things that you will need in order to provide the best service to your patients from basic equipment to advanced tools such as EMR software.

Affiliations and Networks

Asking for help is certainly nothing to be ashamed of, especially if you are just starting your physical therapy practice. For the business side you can hire a consultant to help you manage, but don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family for advice, especially if they are business-minded.

Networking is important in any aspect of employment, whether you’re searching for a job or looking for support for your practice. In the United States, you can become a member of PTPN, a network of physical therapists in private practice. You may, however, find it more of a benefit to join a larger group such as USPh or Alliant Physical Therapy Group, both of which can help you with managing your business and give you support if you are having trouble.

Basic Office Equipment

Your front office is just as important as the work you do in the therapy rooms. It’s the first thing that your clients will interact with when they come through the front door, and your office staff will be invaluable in booking appointments, answering the phone and e-mail, and organizing your schedule. For basic office equipment, you should have the following:

Office furniture

Telephone

Printer/fax/photocopier

Computer with internet connection

Business software

Credit and debit machine

Promotional and informational materials

Basic Clinical Equipment

In order to offer physical therapy to your patients, you will need basic therapy equipment. If you are just beginning your practice, you might find it beneficial to lease equipment instead of buying it outright, and to keep to just the basics until you have a steady flow of clients.  Basic equipment for physical therapy can include:

Treatment tables

Goniometers and measuring tape

Stools or other seats

Mirrors

Exercise equipment like treadmills and stationary bikes

Weight sets

Hot and cold packs

Physio balls or medicine balls

Ultrasound machines

Railings

Pulleys

Stackable steps

Electronic Medical Software

Electronic Medical Software (EMR) software is used to store, retrieve, and modify patient records, and offers improved accessibility and portability for physical therapists. Many utilize EMR software because it allows them to easily see their short-term and long-term plans for patients, as well as any changes or corrections that need to be made. With its easy access and portability, it can save you and your practice time and energy, and help you provide the best care possible for your patients.