Physical Therapy Review Response Examples & Templates

Written with HIPAA in mind - these templates never confirm patient status or reference specific treatments.

HIPAA-safe, copy-paste templates for every type of physical therapy review - from 1-star complaints to 5-star raves. Just fill in the [brackets] and hit send.

1What star rating is the review?

Why Physical Therapy Reviews Matter

Online reviews directly impact your bottom line. Here's what the research shows.

88%

of patients read online reviews before choosing a physical therapy clinic

Source: BrightLocal

$1,500

average out-of-pocket cost for a PT treatment course - making trust essential

Source: APTA

4.2

minimum star rating most patients require before booking a new physical therapist

Source: ReviewTrackers

74%

of patients say they would switch PT clinics based on negative online reviews

Source: PatientPop

Common Physical Therapy Review Complaints

Understanding the most frequent complaints helps you prepare responses in advance. Here are the top issues customers mention in physical therapy reviews.

Treatment Effectiveness

Concerns about lack of progress, ineffective treatment plans, or feeling that therapy is not helping.

Example review:

"I've been going for eight weeks and my shoulder is no better than when I started. Same stretches every visit with zero progress. Complete waste of money."

Pricing & Insurance Billing

High out-of-pocket costs, surprise bills, insurance coding issues, or charges not explained upfront.

Example review:

"They told me my insurance covered everything. Then I got a $600 bill two months later for charges my insurance denied. Nobody warned me this could happen."

Wait Times

Long waits in the lobby or treatment area despite having a scheduled appointment.

Example review:

"I had a 10 AM appointment and didn't start until 10:45. Then I only got 15 minutes of actual treatment. Why do I even bother making an appointment?"

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Therapist being dismissive, rushed, inattentive, or lacking empathy toward the patient's pain or concerns.

Example review:

"The therapist barely looked at me the whole session. I told them I was in pain and they just said 'push through it.' Zero compassion."

Communication About Treatment Plan

Unclear explanations of the treatment plan, goals, expected timeline, or home exercise instructions.

Example review:

"Nobody explained what the treatment plan was or how long recovery would take. I had no idea what exercises to do at home. I felt completely lost."

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Rude or unhelpful front desk staff, difficulty with scheduling or paperwork, or poor customer service.

Example review:

"The front desk staff was rude every single visit. They acted annoyed when I asked about my bill and never returned my phone calls about rescheduling."

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Dirty treatment areas, worn-out equipment, lack of sanitization between patients, or outdated facility.

Example review:

"The treatment tables were not wiped down between patients. The equipment looked ancient and some machines weren't even working. Not what I expected."

Appointment Availability

Difficulty getting appointments at convenient times, long waits to start care, or limited scheduling options.

Example review:

"After my evaluation, the earliest follow-up was three weeks out. I'm in pain now and can't wait that long. They clearly overbook and don't have capacity."

Physical Therapy Review Response Templates by Star Rating

Browse all templates organized by star rating. Click any section to expand and find the perfect response.

Treatment Effectiveness

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take all concerns about care outcomes very seriously and would like the opportunity to discuss your experience privately. Please contact us at [email/phone] so we can review your concerns and explore how we can better support your recovery.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry to hear you're not seeing the progress you expected. Your recovery matters to everyone at [Business Name], and we'd love to talk with you about what we can do differently. Please reach out at [phone] - we want to help.

Empathetic

We're deeply sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. We understand how frustrating and discouraging it is to invest time and effort into therapy and not feel improvement. We'd value the chance to discuss your concerns privately. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Pricing & Insurance Billing

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the billing concerns. Transparent communication about costs and insurance coverage is essential to our practice. We would like to review the charges with you directly. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the billing surprise. Nobody should get an unexpected bill months later, and that's not the experience we want for our patients. We'd love to go over the charges with you. Please call us at [phone].

Empathetic

We completely understand your frustration, [Customer Name]. Unexpected medical bills are stressful, especially when you thought you were covered. We take this seriously and want to review everything with you. Please reach out at [email/phone] so we can address this personally.

Wait Times

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the extended wait and the shortened treatment time. This does not reflect the standard of care we strive to provide. We are reviewing our scheduling procedures. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss further.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the long wait and short session. That's not fair to you, and we completely understand your frustration. We're working on better scheduling so this doesn't happen again. Please reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. Your time is valuable, and waiting nearly an hour only to receive a shortened session is unacceptable. We take this feedback seriously and are making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize that your experience did not reflect the compassionate care we strive to provide. We have addressed this with our clinical team and would welcome the opportunity to discuss your concerns. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry you felt dismissed during your visit. Your comfort and well-being are our priority, and we should have done much better. We've spoken with our team and are committed to improvement. Please reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're sincerely sorry, [Customer Name]. Being told to push through pain without feeling heard is unacceptable. You deserved compassion and attentive care, and we failed to provide that. We're making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Communication About Treatment Plan

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the lack of clear communication regarding your care. We believe every patient deserves a thorough explanation of their plan and goals. We would like to discuss this with you privately. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry you were left without clear direction about your care. You should always know the plan and what to expect. We're working on doing much better with communication. Please reach out at [phone] - we'd like to talk.

Empathetic

We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. Feeling lost about your own recovery plan is frustrating and discouraging. You deserved better communication from our team. We're making improvements. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the poor customer service you experienced. Every interaction should reflect our commitment to care and respect. We have addressed this with our administrative team. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the front desk experience. You deserve to be treated with courtesy every time you contact us. We've spoken with our team and are working on doing better. Please reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're deeply sorry, [Customer Name]. Dealing with rudeness on top of managing your health needs is the last thing you should have to face. We take this seriously and are making changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the cleanliness and equipment concerns. Maintaining a safe, hygienic facility is fundamental to our practice. We have reviewed our sanitation procedures and are taking corrective action. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're really sorry about the state of the facility. That's not the standard we hold ourselves to at [Business Name]. We're addressing the cleaning and equipment issues right away. Please reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're deeply sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. You should never have to worry about cleanliness or equipment safety during your therapy sessions. We take this very seriously and are making immediate improvements. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Appointment Availability

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We sincerely apologize for the scheduling delays. We understand that timely access to care is critical for recovery. We are working to expand our availability. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss options.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry you had to wait so long for a follow-up appointment. We know that when you're in pain, every day matters. We're working on opening up more slots. Please reach out at [phone] and we'll do our best to get you in sooner.

Empathetic

We're truly sorry, [Customer Name]. Being in pain and unable to get a timely appointment is incredibly stressful. We understand your frustration and are making changes to improve access. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Treatment Effectiveness

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We take concerns about care outcomes seriously and would like to discuss your experience. We are committed to supporting every patient's recovery goals. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the feedback. We're sorry you're not seeing the results you hoped for. We'd love to talk about your experience and see how we can help. Please call us at [phone].

Empathetic

We appreciate your feedback, [Customer Name]. We understand how discouraging it is when recovery doesn't go as expected. We'd like to discuss your experience privately. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Pricing & Insurance Billing

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the billing concerns. We are improving our upfront cost communication and insurance verification process. Please contact us at [email/phone] to review your charges.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the billing confusion. We want to be upfront about costs so there are no surprises. Let's go over the charges - please call us at [phone].

Empathetic

We understand the frustration, [Customer Name]. Unexpected therapy bills add stress when you're already focused on healing. We're working on better upfront communication. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Wait Times

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the wait time and are reviewing our scheduling to reduce delays. We value your time. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the long wait. We know your time matters and we should do better. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone] if you want to talk.

Empathetic

We appreciate your patience, [Customer Name]. Long waits when you're already dealing with discomfort are especially frustrating. We're making scheduling changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the experience. We are reinforcing our commitment to compassionate, attentive care with our clinical team. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], we're sorry you didn't feel cared for during your visit. That's not who we want to be at [Business Name]. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. You deserve a therapist who listens and shows genuine concern. We're taking your feedback to heart. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Communication About Treatment Plan

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the communication gap. We are improving how we explain care plans and set expectations. Please contact us at [email/phone] to discuss further.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the communication issues. You deserve to understand your treatment plan clearly. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone] if you'd like to chat.

Empathetic

We understand, [Customer Name]. Not knowing what to expect with your recovery is stressful and discouraging. We're improving our communication practices. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the customer service experience. We are addressing this with our administrative team. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the front desk experience. We want every interaction to be welcoming and helpful. We're working on it. Reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We're sorry about your experience, [Customer Name]. You should feel welcomed and respected every time you walk through our door. We're taking your feedback seriously. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the facility concerns. We are reviewing and improving our sanitation and equipment maintenance procedures. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry about the cleanliness issues. That's not our standard. We're making improvements right away. Reach out at [phone] if you have more concerns.

Empathetic

We're sorry about the facility conditions, [Customer Name]. We understand how unsettling it is when a healthcare environment doesn't feel clean. We're making immediate changes. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Appointment Availability

Professional

Thank you for your feedback, [Customer Name]. We apologize for the scheduling difficulty. We are working to expand our appointment capacity. Please contact us at [email/phone].

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], sorry it was hard to get an appointment. We know timely care is important. We're adding more availability. Reach out at [phone].

Empathetic

We understand, [Customer Name]. Waiting weeks for therapy when you're in pain feels impossible. We're expanding our schedule to improve access. Please reach out at [email/phone].

Treatment Effectiveness

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the balanced feedback and take your concerns about progress seriously. We are committed to continuously improving our approach to care. We hope to earn your full confidence moving forward.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the honest review! Glad some things went well. We take your feedback about progress seriously and are always looking for ways to improve. Hope to see you again!

Empathetic

Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We're glad parts of the experience were positive. We understand how important seeing progress is to you, and we take that feedback to heart.

Pricing & Insurance Billing

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the honest feedback on billing and insurance. We are working to improve our cost transparency so patients know exactly what to expect upfront.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! Glad the care was helpful. We hear you on the billing and are working on making costs clearer from the start.

Empathetic

Thanks for the balanced feedback, [Customer Name]. We know navigating insurance and therapy costs can be confusing and stressful. We're committed to better upfront communication about billing.

Wait Times

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on wait times. We are working to improve our scheduling efficiency. We hope to provide a smoother experience next time.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! Sorry about the wait. We're tightening our schedule so patients spend less time in the lobby and more time healing.

Empathetic

Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We know that waiting when you're in discomfort is especially tough. We're making improvements and appreciate your patience.

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the balanced feedback. Compassionate, attentive care is our priority, and we are reinforcing this with our clinical team.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the honest review! We hear you on the bedside manner. We're coaching our therapists to be more attentive and supportive. Glad the care itself helped!

Empathetic

Thanks for the feedback, [Customer Name]. We want every patient to feel truly cared for, not just treated. We're working on it and appreciate you sharing your experience.

Communication About Treatment Plan

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on communication. We are improving how we explain care plans, timelines, and home exercise programs to our patients.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! We hear you on the communication. We're working on making sure every patient understands their plan and what to do at home.

Empathetic

Thanks for sharing, [Customer Name]. We understand how important it is to feel informed and confident about your recovery plan. We're making improvements to our communication.

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback. We are committed to ensuring our entire team provides courteous, helpful service at every point of contact.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the honest review! We hear you on the front desk experience. We're working on making every interaction welcoming. Glad the therapy itself was good!

Empathetic

Thanks for the feedback, [Customer Name]. We want you to feel valued from the moment you walk in. We're addressing this and appreciate you sharing your experience.

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on our facility. We are reinforcing our cleaning protocols and evaluating equipment upgrades. We hope to exceed your expectations next time.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! Sorry about the facility issues. We're stepping up our cleaning game and looking into new equipment. Glad the therapy was helpful!

Empathetic

Thanks for the honest feedback, [Customer Name]. We understand that a clean, well-equipped facility is essential to feeling comfortable during your care. We're making improvements.

Appointment Availability

Professional

Thank you for your review, [Customer Name]. We appreciate the feedback on scheduling. We are working to expand our appointment availability to better serve our patients.

Friendly

Hi [Customer Name], thanks for the review! We hear you on the scheduling. We're adding more appointment options. Glad the visit was good once you got in!

Empathetic

Thanks for the feedback, [Customer Name]. We know getting timely care is crucial when you're in pain. We're expanding our schedule to reduce wait times for appointments.

Treatment Effectiveness

Professional

Thank you for the great review, [Customer Name]! We're glad you're seeing positive results. We appreciate the feedback and are always refining our approach to deliver the best outcomes. We look forward to continuing to support your recovery!

Friendly

Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! So glad you're making progress. We're always working to get even better - 5 stars next time! Keep up the great work with your exercises.

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're so glad you're feeling improvement. Your dedication to your recovery is inspiring. We appreciate the honest feedback and are always working to do even better.

Pricing & Insurance Billing

Professional

Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was excellent. We appreciate the billing feedback and are continually working to improve our cost transparency.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the billing. We're working on making costs clearer upfront so there are no surprises. Glad the therapy was top-notch!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know navigating therapy costs and insurance can be stressful. We're glad the care was wonderful and are committed to clearer billing communication.

Wait Times

Professional

Thank you for the positive review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was excellent. We appreciate the scheduling feedback and are working to reduce wait times for all our patients.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! Sorry about the wait - we're working on tighter scheduling. Glad the therapy session itself was worth it!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We appreciate your patience and are glad the care was excellent. We're improving our scheduling to make the whole experience smoother from start to finish.

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Professional

Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the treatment was effective. We appreciate the feedback about the clinical experience and are always working to improve.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! Our team loves helping patients get better. We hear the feedback and are working to make every session feel supportive and encouraging!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're thrilled the therapy is helping. We want every patient to feel not just treated, but truly cared for. We appreciate the feedback and are always improving.

Communication About Treatment Plan

Professional

Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the care was effective. We appreciate the communication feedback and are improving how we explain treatment plans and goals.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the communication - we're working on keeping patients better informed about their plan and progress. Glad the therapy is working!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We want you to feel confident and informed about every step of your recovery. We're improving our communication and appreciate the honest feedback.

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Professional

Thank you for the positive review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the therapy met your expectations. We appreciate the feedback about our administrative team and are working to improve every interaction.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the front desk experience. We're making improvements so the whole visit feels great, not just the therapy. See you next time!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We're glad the therapy was excellent. We want every part of your experience to match that quality, including the front desk. We're working on it.

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Professional

Thank you for the kind review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the therapy was excellent. We appreciate the facility feedback and are reinforcing our cleaning standards and evaluating equipment updates.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! Sorry about the facility issue - we're on it. We want the space to match the quality of care. Glad the therapy was top-notch!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We appreciate the note about the facility. We want you to feel comfortable and confident in our space. We're making improvements, and we're glad the therapy itself was wonderful.

Appointment Availability

Professional

Thank you for the positive review, [Customer Name]! We're glad the visit went well. We appreciate the scheduling feedback and are expanding our availability to serve our patients better.

Friendly

Thanks for the great review, [Customer Name]! We hear you on the scheduling. We're adding more time slots so it's easier to get in. Glad the care was excellent!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know timely access to care matters for your recovery. We're working on our schedule so getting an appointment is easier. Glad the visit was great!

Treatment Effectiveness

Professional

Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're thrilled to hear about your progress. Our therapists take great pride in developing effective, personalized treatment plans. We look forward to continuing to support your recovery at [Business Name]!

Friendly

Wow, thank you [Customer Name]! We're so happy to hear you're feeling better. Your hard work in therapy is paying off, and our team loves seeing that progress. Keep it up!

Empathetic

Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! Knowing that your therapy is making a real difference in your daily life means everything to our team. Your dedication to your recovery is inspiring. We're here for you every step of the way!

Pricing & Insurance Billing

Professional

Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're delighted that you found our pricing transparent and our care exceptional. Honest, upfront communication about costs is a priority at [Business Name]. We look forward to serving you again!

Friendly

Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! We work hard to make billing clear and stress-free. So glad the therapy was great and the pricing worked for you. See you next time!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know therapy is an investment in your health, and it means so much that you felt the value matched the quality of care. We're here whenever you need us!

Wait Times

Professional

Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're glad your appointment ran smoothly and the care was excellent. Respecting your time while providing thorough treatment is a priority at [Business Name]!

Friendly

Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! On time and great care - that's what we aim for every visit. So glad the whole experience was smooth!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know your time is precious, especially when you're balancing recovery with everything else in life. We're so glad everything went smoothly!

Therapist Manner / Compassion

Professional

Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! Our therapists take pride in providing compassionate, attentive care for every patient. We're honored by your kind words and look forward to continuing your care!

Friendly

Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! Our therapists genuinely love what they do, and it shows. So glad you felt the care and encouragement during your sessions!

Empathetic

Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! We believe healing is about more than exercises - it's about feeling supported and understood. It means the world that you felt truly cared for!

Communication About Treatment Plan

Professional

Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're pleased that our team communicated your treatment plan clearly. Keeping patients informed and empowered is a core value at [Business Name]!

Friendly

Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! We love making sure our patients understand their plan and feel confident about their recovery. So glad everything was clear and helpful!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know how important it is to understand your recovery journey. We're so glad our team kept you informed and empowered every step of the way!

Staff Attitude / Front Desk

Professional

Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're delighted that our entire team - from the front desk to the treatment room - provided an outstanding experience. We look forward to welcoming you back at [Business Name]!

Friendly

Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! Our front desk team and therapists all love making patients feel welcome. So glad the whole experience was great from start to finish!

Empathetic

Thank you so much, [Customer Name]! We want every patient to feel valued and welcomed from the first phone call to the last session. It means so much that our team made you feel at home!

Facility Cleanliness / Equipment

Professional

Thank you for the outstanding review, [Customer Name]! We're proud that our facility and equipment met your expectations. Maintaining a clean, modern treatment environment is a top priority at [Business Name]. We look forward to your next visit!

Friendly

Thanks for the awesome review, [Customer Name]! We take pride in keeping our space clean and our equipment in top shape. So glad you noticed - and that the therapy was great too!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know that a clean, well-maintained facility helps you feel comfortable and confident in your care. We're so glad the whole experience was five stars!

Appointment Availability

Professional

Thank you for the excellent review, [Customer Name]! We're glad we could accommodate your schedule and provide outstanding care. Timely access to therapy is essential for recovery, and we work hard to make it happen at [Business Name]!

Friendly

Thanks for the amazing review, [Customer Name]! We love being able to get patients in quickly. So glad the scheduling was easy and the care was even better!

Empathetic

Thank you, [Customer Name]! We know how anxious it feels waiting to start therapy when you're in pain. We're so glad we could see you quickly and that the care exceeded your expectations!

Physical Therapy Review Response Best Practices

Templates get you started, but these best practices will help you craft responses that truly build trust.

1

Never Confirm Patient Status or Treatment Details

HIPAA regulations apply to physical therapy practices. Never confirm that someone is or was a patient, reference specific injuries, diagnoses, or treatment plans in a public response. Use general language like "We take all feedback seriously" and always redirect to a private conversation.

2

Lead with Empathy for Pain and Frustration

PT patients are often dealing with chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, or limited mobility. Acknowledge the emotional weight of their situation before addressing the complaint. Defensive responses feel especially cold to someone who is already suffering.

3

Address Billing Concerns Without Specifics

Insurance and billing questions are among the most common PT complaints. Never discuss specific charges, coverage, or insurance details publicly. Acknowledge the concern, emphasize your commitment to transparency, and invite the conversation offline.

4

Respond Within 24 Hours

Patients often write reviews after a frustrating appointment or billing surprise. A fast, compassionate response can defuse negative sentiment and shows potential patients that your clinic is attentive and responsive. Set up review alerts for daily monitoring.

5

Highlight Your Team in Positive Responses

When responding to 5-star reviews, mention your team by role: "Our physical therapists take pride in creating personalized recovery plans." This builds credibility, aids local SEO, and helps your staff feel valued.

6

Celebrate Patient Progress Without Details

When patients share positive outcomes in their reviews, you can acknowledge their hard work without confirming specifics. Say "We're thrilled to hear about your progress" rather than referencing specific conditions or treatments.

Your Review Responses Are Part of Your Patient Acquisition Strategy

Most physical therapy clinics don't realize that Google indexes review responses. Naturally include your clinic name, services (post-surgical rehabilitation, sports injury therapy, chronic pain management, manual therapy), and service area in your responses. Instead of "Thanks for the review," try "Thank you for choosing [Business Name] for your rehabilitation here in [city]!" This helps Google connect your practice to the services and locations people search for - improving your visibility in Google Maps and local search results. Patients searching for "physical therapy near me" are more likely to find clinics that actively engage with their reviews.

HIPAA-Safe Review Response Guidelines for Physical Therapy Practices

Physical therapy practices are covered entities under HIPAA, which means every public review response must protect patient privacy. A well-meaning reply can create serious compliance issues if it confirms someone's patient status, references specific injuries, or discusses treatment details. Every template on this page is written to avoid these common mistakes:

  • Never confirms or denies that someone is or was a patient of your practice
  • Never references specific injuries, diagnoses, conditions, or body parts being treated
  • Never mentions treatment plans, exercises, modalities, or session details
  • Uses general language like "We take all feedback seriously" instead of confirming care details
  • Always redirects to private communication for any discussion of specifics
  • Never identifies staff members by name in connection with specific patient interactions

This is exactly what makes responding to physical therapy reviews different from responding to restaurant or auto repair reviews - and why generic templates can be risky for your practice.

Templates Are Safe. AI Is Safe and Personal.

These templates follow HIPAA-safe practices - but they’re still generic. You have to find the right one, customize the placeholders, and copy-paste it every time. Reply Champion goes further:

  • AI reads each review and writes a truly personalized response
  • Every response is automatically screened for common HIPAA red flags before it’s posted
  • Built-in safeguards designed to help prevent accidental disclosure of patient information
  • You review and approve, or auto-post - your choice

No credit card required

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about responding to physical therapy reviews.

Within 24 hours is ideal. PT patients often write reviews during emotional moments - after a painful session or a billing surprise. A fast, compassionate response shows you care and can prevent negative sentiment from escalating.
Yes. HIPAA applies to physical therapy practices. Never confirm someone was a patient, reference specific injuries or diagnoses, discuss treatment plans, or mention appointment details in a public response. Always redirect to private communication.
Take it seriously without confirming any treatment details. Express concern, acknowledge that results are important, and invite them to discuss their care plan privately. Never reference specific conditions, exercises, or timelines in a public response.
Absolutely. Positive review responses encourage more reviews, build trust with prospective patients, and provide a natural opportunity to mention your services and team - all of which help with local SEO and patient acquisition.
Never discuss specific charges, insurance coverage, or billing codes publicly. Acknowledge the concern, emphasize your commitment to billing transparency, and invite the patient to discuss details privately. Prospective patients will judge your professionalism, not the billing dispute.
Acknowledge the feedback with genuine empathy. Avoid being defensive or identifying specific staff members. Express your commitment to compassionate care, note that you are addressing the concern internally, and invite the reviewer to discuss further offline.
Yes. Google considers review engagement as a local ranking factor. PT clinics that respond to reviews regularly tend to rank higher in local search and Google Maps. Include your clinic name, services, and service area naturally in responses.
Confirming patient details or being defensive. Saying "When you came in for your knee surgery rehab..." violates HIPAA. Explaining why a treatment plan was chosen sounds dismissive. Lead with empathy, keep it general, and move specifics offline.