Rachel Johnson Physical Therapist Tennessee Npi

A National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique 10-digit identification number required for all healthcare providers in the United States. Locating a practitioner in Tennessee specializing in physical therapy, such as one named Rachel Johnson, would likely involve using this number in a search of the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES). This system is a publicly available database allowing patients and other healthcare professionals to verify a provider’s credentials and active status. This ensures patients can confirm they are receiving care from a legitimate, qualified professional.

Access to accurate provider information plays a crucial role in patient care. Using the NPI offers assurance and facilitates streamlined communication between healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patients. It’s essential for billing, claims processing, and overall healthcare administration. The NPI system contributes to greater transparency and accountability within the healthcare system, benefiting both patients and providers.

This introduction provides a foundation for understanding the components of a provider search. The following sections will delve deeper into finding a qualified physical therapist in Tennessee, utilizing online resources, professional directories, and other valuable strategies. The goal is to empower patients with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

Tips for Finding a Qualified Physical Therapist in Tennessee

Locating a suitable physical therapist requires careful consideration of several factors. These tips offer guidance for navigating the process and making an informed decision.

Tip 1: Verify Credentials and Licensing: Confirm the physical therapist’s license status and board certification through the Tennessee Department of Health website. This ensures the provider meets state requirements and adheres to professional standards.

Tip 2: Utilize Online Directories: The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) website offers a “Find a PT” directory to locate licensed physical therapists in specific geographic areas, including Tennessee.

Tip 3: Consider Specialization: Physical therapists may specialize in specific areas such as orthopedics, neurology, or geriatrics. Choose a practitioner whose expertise aligns with individual needs.

Tip 4: Seek Referrals: Consult with physicians, other healthcare providers, or trusted individuals for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into a physical therapist’s practice and patient care approach.

Tip 5: Review Patient Testimonials: Online reviews and testimonials can offer perspectives on patient experiences. These can be helpful in assessing a physical therapist’s communication style, effectiveness, and overall patient satisfaction.

Tip 6: Schedule a Consultation: An initial consultation allows potential patients to meet the physical therapist, discuss treatment approaches, and assess compatibility. This is a crucial step in establishing a comfortable and productive therapeutic relationship.

Tip 7: Inquire About Insurance Coverage: Contact the physical therapist’s office and insurance provider to verify coverage and understand any out-of-pocket expenses. This prevents unexpected financial burdens.

By following these tips, individuals can effectively identify and select a qualified physical therapist in Tennessee who meets their specific healthcare needs and preferences. Thorough research and thoughtful consideration contribute to a positive and successful rehabilitation experience.

This guidance lays the groundwork for a more in-depth discussion on choosing the right physical therapist. The concluding section will reiterate key takeaways and emphasize the importance of proactive engagement in one’s healthcare journey.

1. Rachel Johnson (Proper Noun)

Within the context of a search for “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi,” “Rachel Johnson” serves as the primary identifier, distinguishing the individual sought from other healthcare professionals. This name acts as the starting point for locating a specific physical therapist within the broader healthcare landscape. Its presence is crucial for accurate identification and subsequent verification of credentials and professional details.

• Name as Key Identifier

  The proper noun “Rachel Johnson” is essential for differentiating individuals. In healthcare, accurate identification is paramount, especially when verifying credentials and licensing. Searching databases like the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) requires specificity to ensure accurate results. Using the full name minimizes the risk of misidentification and ensures the information retrieved pertains to the correct individual.

• Professional Context

  When combined with other descriptors like “physical therapist” and “Tennessee,” the name “Rachel Johnson” helps narrow the search within the physical therapy profession in a specific geographic location. This contextual information guides the search process towards the intended individual. It refines the search parameters, filtering out irrelevant results and focusing on the specific practitioner in question.

• Importance in Verification

  Correctly identifying “Rachel Johnson” is critical for verifying her credentials, including her NPI, license status, and board certifications. These details confirm her qualifications and legitimacy as a practicing physical therapist in Tennessee. Verifying these aspects assures potential patients of her professional standing and adherence to regulatory requirements.

• Patient-Provider Connection

  For patients seeking a specific physical therapist named Rachel Johnson in Tennessee, her name acts as the initial point of contact, initiating the search process and establishing the basis for building a patient-provider relationship. It allows potential patients to locate and connect with the specific practitioner they are seeking, facilitating access to individualized care.

In summary, the proper noun “Rachel Johnson” forms the foundation of a targeted search for a specific physical therapist in Tennessee. Combining this name with additional identifiers like “physical therapist,” “Tennessee,” and “NPI” ensures accurate identification, facilitates verification of credentials, and ultimately enables individuals seeking care to connect with the intended healthcare professional. The precision provided by using her name is crucial for navigating the complex landscape of healthcare providers and ensuring the right practitioner is located.

2. Physical Therapist (Noun Phrase)

The noun phrase “physical therapist” within the search query “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” specifies the profession and significantly narrows the search scope. It clarifies the type of healthcare provider being sought, differentiating Rachel Johnson from other professionals named Rachel Johnson who might work in different healthcare fields, or even outside the healthcare sector entirely. This specificity is crucial for accurate identification within databases like NPPES. Without this descriptor, the search would yield a broader range of results, requiring further filtering and potentially leading to misidentification.

The inclusion of “physical therapist” directly links the individual to a specific body of knowledge, skillset, and scope of practice. It informs the searcher about the type of care Rachel Johnson provides and clarifies her qualifications. For example, if one were seeking treatment for a musculoskeletal injury, confirming “physical therapist” as the profession assures the individual’s expertise in this area. This is essential for connecting patients with appropriate providers for their specific needs. It also establishes the context for further verification of credentials and specialization within physical therapy, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, or neurology.

Understanding the role of “physical therapist” in the search string highlights its crucial function in accurate provider identification and qualification verification. It filters irrelevant results, links the individual to a recognized profession, and guides further exploration of relevant specializations within physical therapy. This contributes to a more efficient and effective search process, ultimately connecting individuals with the appropriate healthcare professionals for their specific needs and ensuring the quality of care received. The importance of specificity in healthcare provider searches cannot be overstated, and the inclusion of professional designations like “physical therapist” plays a key role in this process.

3. Tennessee (Proper Noun)

“Tennessee” within the search phrase “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” geographically defines the search, limiting results to practitioners within that state. This crucial element refines the search process, filtering out physical therapists named Rachel Johnson licensed in other states. Specifying the location ensures relevant results for individuals seeking care within Tennessee.

• State Licensure and Regulation

  Physical therapists must be licensed within the state where they practice. “Tennessee” signifies adherence to Tennessee-specific licensing requirements and oversight by the Tennessee Department of Health. This is crucial for ensuring compliance with state regulations and upholding standards of practice. Searching within Tennessee ensures the located practitioner meets the necessary legal requirements to provide care in that state.

• Geographic Relevance for Patients

  Including “Tennessee” directs the search toward practitioners accessible to patients within the state. This is practically significant for individuals seeking local care. Proximity influences accessibility, convenience, and the potential for in-person consultations and treatment sessions. Patients searching for a physical therapist are likely seeking care within their geographic region.

• Impact on NPI Search Scope

  While the NPI is a national identifier, specifying “Tennessee” helps narrow the search within the NPPES database. This reduces the potential for retrieving information on practitioners with similar names in other states, streamlining the process and enhancing accuracy. It filters the results based on location, ensuring the identified NPI corresponds to a practitioner licensed in Tennessee.

• Interplay with Other Search Terms

  “Tennessee” interacts with “rachel johnson” and “physical therapist” to pinpoint a specific individual within a defined profession and location. The combination of these terms allows for a highly targeted search, increasing the likelihood of accurate identification. Each element contributes to a more refined and effective search strategy.

In conclusion, the inclusion of “Tennessee” within the search query is essential for accurate and relevant results. It delineates the geographic scope of the search, ensures compliance with state licensure, prioritizes accessible providers for patients within Tennessee, and refines the NPI search within the national database. By geographically anchoring the search, “Tennessee” plays a crucial role in connecting individuals with qualified physical therapists within their state, ensuring access to appropriate and compliant care. This level of specificity is vital in the complex landscape of healthcare provider searches, optimizing the process and ensuring patients find the right practitioner for their needs.

4. NPI (Noun)

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) serves as a unique, 10-digit numeric identifier assigned to healthcare providers in the United States. Within the context of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi,” the NPI is the linchpin connecting the individual practitioner to verifiable credentials within the national healthcare system. It transforms a name and location (“rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee”) into a searchable, verifiable entity. This connection enables patients, insurance companies, and other healthcare entities to confirm Rachel Johnson’s legitimacy as a practicing physical therapist in Tennessee.

The NPI’s presence in the search string facilitates access to critical information within the NPPES database. For instance, it allows confirmation of Rachel Johnson’s active license status, specialization areas within physical therapy, and practice location. This verification process protects patients from fraudulent practitioners and ensures they receive care from qualified professionals. Furthermore, the NPI streamlines administrative processes such as insurance claims and referrals, promoting efficiency and accuracy within the healthcare system. A practical example is a patient using Rachel Johnson’s NPI to verify her participation in their insurance network before scheduling an appointment, preventing potential billing discrepancies. Another example would be a referring physician using the NPI to electronically transmit patient information to Rachel Johnson’s office, facilitating seamless care transitions.

In summary, the NPI within the search string “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” transitions a name and location into a verifiable professional identity within the national healthcare framework. This allows for confirmation of credentials, streamlines administrative processes, and empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. The NPI’s function within the search underscores its significance as a critical component of modern healthcare administration and patient empowerment, ensuring accountability and transparency within the system. The reliance on the NPI for accurate identification and verification continues to evolve alongside the increasing complexity of the healthcare landscape.

5. Healthcare Provider Identification

Healthcare provider identification is crucial for navigating the complex healthcare system. Within the context of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi,” accurate identification ensures patients receive care from the correct practitioner and facilitates essential administrative processes. This involves verifying qualifications, licensure, and other crucial information. Effective identification relies on utilizing multiple data points to pinpoint the specific provider sought.

• Verification of Credentials

  Confirming a healthcare provider’s credentials is paramount for patient safety and quality care. In the case of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi,” verification involves confirming her physical therapy license in Tennessee and validating her NPI through the NPPES database. This process ensures Rachel Johnson possesses the necessary qualifications and is legally authorized to practice physical therapy in Tennessee. This protects patients from unqualified practitioners and upholds professional standards within the healthcare system.

• Streamlining Administrative Processes

  Accurate provider identification streamlines administrative tasks, including insurance billing, referrals, and medical record transfers. The NPI associated with “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” acts as a unique identifier, facilitating accurate and efficient data exchange between healthcare entities. This reduces administrative errors, accelerates processing times, and improves overall healthcare system efficiency. This ensures correct billing information, seamless referrals, and accurate tracking of patient medical histories.

• Patient Empowerment and Informed Decision-Making

  Access to accurate provider information empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care. “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” provides patients with the necessary information to verify Rachel Johnson’s credentials and professional background, enabling them to choose a practitioner who meets their specific needs and preferences. This transparency fosters trust between patients and providers, contributing to positive patient experiences and improved healthcare outcomes.

• Maintaining Healthcare System Integrity

  Robust provider identification systems, such as the NPI system, contribute to the overall integrity of the healthcare system. “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” exemplifies the importance of accurate identification in preventing fraud, ensuring accountability, and maintaining accurate provider directories. This protects patients and the healthcare system as a whole from unqualified or fraudulent practitioners. It also strengthens the public’s trust in the healthcare system’s ability to regulate and monitor its providers effectively.

In conclusion, “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” exemplifies the multifaceted role of healthcare provider identification. The components of this search query name, profession, location, and NPI work together to pinpoint a specific practitioner and enable verification of crucial information. This process supports patient safety, streamlines administrative functions, empowers patients, and ultimately contributes to a more robust and transparent healthcare system. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of accurate and efficient provider identification will only become more pronounced.

6. Verification of Credentials

Verification of credentials is paramount in healthcare, ensuring patient safety and informed decision-making. Within the context of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi,” verifying credentials confirms Rachel Johnson’s qualifications and legitimacy as a physical therapist practicing in Tennessee. This process protects patients from unqualified practitioners and upholds professional standards within the healthcare system. The following facets explore the key components of credential verification.

• Licensing Verification

  Verifying licensure through the Tennessee Department of Health confirms Rachel Johnson’s authorization to practice physical therapy within the state. This ensures adherence to state-specific regulations and confirms completion of required educational and examination requirements. A valid license demonstrates compliance with legal and professional standards, safeguarding patients and maintaining public trust. For example, a patient can access the Tennessee Department of Health’s website to verify the current status of Rachel Johnson’s physical therapy license.

• NPI Confirmation

  The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique identifier for healthcare providers. Confirming Rachel Johnson’s NPI through the NPPES database validates her identity and links her to official records. This helps ensure that the individual claiming to be “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” is indeed the licensed professional in question, mitigating the risk of fraud and misrepresentation. This is a critical step for insurance billing and other administrative processes.

• Board Certification (If Applicable)

  While not mandatory for all physical therapists, board certification through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties signifies advanced competency in a specialized area of practice. Verifying board certification, if applicable to Rachel Johnson, provides further assurance of her expertise and commitment to professional development. This information empowers patients to select practitioners with specialized skills aligned with their specific needs. For example, a patient seeking treatment for a neurological condition might prioritize a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist.

• Disciplinary Actions and Malpractice History

  Checking for any disciplinary actions or malpractice history related to Rachel Johnson is a crucial component of credential verification. This protects patients from practitioners with a history of professional misconduct or negligence. While less common, access to this information fosters transparency and allows patients to make fully informed decisions. Resources such as state licensing boards often provide information on disciplinary actions. Accessing this information provides a comprehensive overview of a practitioner’s professional standing.

In conclusion, verifying the credentials associated with “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” is an essential step in ensuring safe and effective healthcare. By confirming licensure, validating the NPI, checking for board certification, and reviewing disciplinary history, patients can confidently select a qualified and reputable practitioner. This thorough verification process protects patients, upholds professional standards, and contributes to the overall integrity of the healthcare system. The “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” search exemplifies the importance of due diligence in selecting a healthcare provider, underscoring the connection between credential verification and patient well-being.

7. Tennessee Licensure

Tennessee licensure acts as a critical component within the search query “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi.” It signifies legal authorization to practice physical therapy within the state, ensuring adherence to Tennessee-specific regulations and professional standards. This licensure requirement protects the public by verifying a practitioner’s qualifications and competency. Without “Tennessee” specifying the jurisdiction, the “npi” could belong to a practitioner licensed in a different state, rendering it irrelevant for individuals seeking care within Tennessee. This geographic specificity ensures the located practitioner is legally permitted to provide services within the state. Failure to verify Tennessee licensure could lead to unknowingly receiving care from an unqualified or unauthorized individual, potentially jeopardizing patient safety and leading to legal complications. For example, a search for “rachel johnson physical therapist npi” might yield results for individuals licensed in other states, creating confusion and potentially misleading patients seeking care specifically in Tennessee.

The importance of “Tennessee licensure” as a component of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” lies in its ability to connect the national identifier (NPI) to a specific jurisdiction. The NPI, while unique to each practitioner, does not inherently specify location. Therefore, “Tennessee” anchors the NPI to the state’s regulatory framework, confirming compliance with local requirements and facilitating verification through the Tennessee Department of Health’s licensing database. This localized validation adds a critical layer of security and accountability. A real-life example would involve a patient verifying Rachel Johnson’s licensure status on the Tennessee Department of Health website using her name and/or NPI to confirm her authorization to practice in the state before commencing treatment.

In summary, “Tennessee licensure” within the context of “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” provides essential geographic context and legal validation. This ensures compliance with state regulations, protects patients from unqualified practitioners, and facilitates accurate verification of credentials within the appropriate jurisdiction. It underscores the importance of considering licensure location alongside the NPI when verifying healthcare provider qualifications. This attention to detail strengthens patient safety and upholds the integrity of the healthcare system within Tennessee. Neglecting this component can lead to misidentification, potential harm, and legal ramifications, highlighting its significance within the broader search query.

Frequently Asked Questions

This FAQ section addresses common inquiries regarding locating and verifying the credentials of physical therapists in Tennessee, focusing on the importance of accurate identification and the role of the National Provider Identifier (NPI).

Question 1: What is the purpose of an NPI?

The National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique, 10-digit number assigned to all healthcare providers in the United States. It’s used for identification in administrative and financial transactions, such as insurance billing and claims processing. The NPI is essential for verifying a provider’s legitimacy.

Question 2: How can one locate a physical therapist’s NPI?

The NPI is publicly available information. It can be found through the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) website, a searchable database maintained by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Question 3: Is an NPI sufficient for verifying a physical therapist’s qualifications?

While essential, the NPI alone does not fully verify qualifications. It’s crucial to also verify the practitioner’s license status through the Tennessee Department of Health website to ensure they are authorized to practice in the state.

Question 4: What other information, besides the NPI, is important when researching a physical therapist in Tennessee?

Consider factors like specialization areas (e.g., orthopedics, geriatrics), patient reviews, and accepted insurance plans. Direct contact with the physical therapist’s office can provide valuable information regarding treatment approaches and practice details.

Question 5: Why is it essential to verify Tennessee licensure specifically?

Practicing physical therapy requires a valid license within the specific state of practice. Tennessee licensure verifies that the practitioner meets the state’s regulatory requirements and has undergone the necessary education and examination processes mandated by the Tennessee Department of Health.

Question 6: How can patients confirm the legitimacy of a physical therapist claiming to practice in Tennessee?

Patients can verify licensure through the Tennessee Department of Health website using the practitioner’s name or NPI. This confirms their authorization to practice in Tennessee and provides information on any disciplinary actions or malpractice history. Combining this with information found via the NPI search provides comprehensive verification.

Accurate identification and verification of credentials are crucial for ensuring patient safety and facilitating informed healthcare decisions. Utilizing available resources and understanding the role of the NPI and state licensure empower patients to select qualified practitioners within their respective state.

This FAQ section offers foundational knowledge for informed decision-making. The following sections will delve into specific resources and strategies for locating qualified healthcare providers within Tennessee.

Conclusion

Accurate identification of healthcare providers is paramount for ensuring patient safety, facilitating effective communication within the healthcare system, and promoting informed decision-making. Utilizing a combination of identifiers, including name, profession, location, and National Provider Identifier (NPI), enables precise location of individual practitioners. Verification of credentials, particularly state licensure, confirms adherence to regulatory standards and protects patients from unqualified or fraudulent practitioners. Understanding the role of each component within a search query like “rachel johnson physical therapist tennessee npi” equips individuals with the tools necessary to navigate the complex healthcare landscape and connect with qualified professionals.

The increasing complexity of healthcare necessitates diligent verification of provider credentials. Empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources to confirm practitioner legitimacy strengthens the patient-provider relationship, contributes to greater transparency within the healthcare system, and fosters a more informed and accountable healthcare environment. Continued emphasis on accurate provider identification and verification will remain crucial for upholding ethical practices and safeguarding patient well-being within an evolving healthcare landscape.