EMG Solutions & EMG Nerve Conduction Studies
What does EMG Solutions provide?
We provide electrodiagnostic testing services including nerve conduction studies (NCS) and needle electromyography (EMG).
What qualifies as physical therapist to perform both EMG and nerve conduction studies?
- Physical therapists who provide electrodiagnostic testing services are required to complete a rigorous didactic curriculum, 500 clinical studies and 2000 hours of testing in order to qualify to sit for an examination administered by the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME).
- Currently, among all physical therapists in the United States, only 166 are board certified to provide electrodiagnostic testing services.
Are physical therapists recognized by insurance providers?
Physical therapists who have completed their board certification are recognized as qualified providers of clinical EMG/NCS by major insurance carriers including Medicare and Blue Cross. Physical therapists have been specifically recognized and listed by Medicare since 2001 as qualified providers of electrodiagnostic testing.
Who reads the report and writes the conclusions?
- The providing physical therapist, as a qualified practitioner, reads the report and writes the conclusion.
- It is important to remember that the physical therapist does not diagnose the condition simply based on the results of the study. Rather, the results describe the state or condition of the peripheral nerve and associated muscle in order to assist the referring physician in their diagnosis.
Is it safe for Physical Therapists to Perform EMG/NCS?
In over 50 years of EMG/NCS testing provided by physical therapists, there has never been an insurance claim filed against a board-certified physical therapist providing electrodiagnostic testing services.
When does the referring provider get the results?
The report is usually provided on the same day but in some cases may take up to 24 hours.
What does the clinic provide?
EMG solutions is largely self-contained. We bring the equipment, electrodes and needles. The clinic provides a treatment room and table (physical therapy clinics work very well), gauze pads and alcohol.
How flexible are the services?
We are accustomed to providing the service in multiple clinics and recognize the demand will vary from one clinic to another and even from one month to another. We have the ability to scale the service depending on the demand. A small satellite office might need this service for half a day every two weeks but a busy clinic may require a full day (or more) of service on a weekly basis.
Billing and Collecting
Who is responsible for billing and collecting payment for services?
The Clinic is responsible for billing and collecting payment for all services provided. The physical therapist delivering the services is credentialed through the clinic, and all insurance benefits are collected directly by the clinic.
Does EMG Solutions assist with credentialing documentation?
Yes. EMG Solutions provides all necessary documentation required for credentialing the physical therapist through the clinic.
How does EMG Solutions invoice the clinic?
EMG Solutions submits a monthly invoice to the clinic based on the services provided during that billing period.
Patient Flow
What is EMG Solutions’ approach to patient scheduling and turnaround times?
EMG Solutions is committed to expediting scheduling, testing, and report turnaround. Our goal is to provide efficient service while maintaining high-quality diagnostic evaluations.
How many patients are typically seen per day?
We typically schedule one patient per hour. Depending on clinic hours, we can usually see up to nine patients in a full day, as we do not break for lunch.
How is the EMG schedule integrated into the clinic’s schedule?
An EMG schedule is added to the clinic’s master schedule based on agreed-upon dates and times. EMG referrals are placed directly onto that schedule. On the scheduled date, we see the patients, complete the necessary documentation and billing, and finalize reports the same day the study is performed.
Who serves as the point of contact for scheduling and billing?
In most cases, the clinic designates a primary point of contact to coordinate scheduling, billing, and documentation with EMG Solutions.
Can availability be adjusted based on referral volume?
Yes. Depending on referral volume and clinic needs, we can increase or decrease availability to ensure appropriate coverage and efficiency.
Treatment Space
Where is EMG testing performed within the clinic?
Testing is typically performed in a standard exam room using a plinth. In clinics where physical therapy is co-located, services may be provided within the physical therapy department.
What type of space is required for EMG testing?
Most standard treatment or exam rooms are sufficient in size for us to set up our equipment and comfortably evaluate patients. Our equipment is designed to integrate easily into existing clinical spaces.
