Did You Know You Can See a Physical Therapist Without a Doctor’s Prescription or Referral?

In all 50 states, you can schedule a visit with one of our therapists to get help sooner rather than later. Whether you’re struggling with lingering pain from an old injury or you only hurt yourself yesterday, Direct Access guarantees your access.

Direct Access refers to the ability of patients to seek and receive physical therapy services without needing a referral or prescription from a physician or other healthcare provider.

Direct Access benefits patients in several ways:

• Faster access to care: Patients can immediately consult with our physical therapists in North Miami Beach, Davie or Pembroke Pines, FL without waiting for a referral, allowing treatment to begin sooner and potentially shortening recovery times.
• Reduced healthcare costs: Direct Access can eliminate the need for multiple appointments with different healthcare providers, thereby reducing overall healthcare costs. Early intervention through physical therapy may also prevent the need for more expensive treatments, tests, or procedures later on.
• Streamlined care: Our physical therapists are highly trained healthcare professionals who evaluate and treat musculoskeletal and movement-related issues. Direct Access allows you to receive specialized care from the most appropriate healthcare provider, resulting in more focused and effective treatment.
• Enhanced patient autonomy: Direct Access empowers you to take greater control over your healthcare decisions and choose the most appropriate care for your needs.

Direct Access laws and regulations vary by state in the United States. Some states allow unrestricted Direct Access, while others have specific provisions or limitations, such as a maximum number of visits or a requirement for a referral after a certain period.

It’s also vital to keep in mind that, regardless of your state’s laws, some insurance companies may still require a referral or prescription for coverage. Always check with your insurance provider to understand their specific requirements for physical therapy coverage.

Call today to consult with our administrative team to determine the extent of Direct Access available to you.

How Direct Access laws affect health insurance

Unfortunately, there is no standard requirement for physical therapy benefits among health insurance providers, so policies differ from carrier to carrier. Although Direct Access laws may allow you to seek physical therapy services without a referral, some insurance carriers may still require a referral or prescription for coverage.

For that reason, It’s essential to check what your insurance covers, no matter what! When you contact your provider, be sure to clarify their specific requirements for physical therapy coverage. Remember to ask about any limitations on the number of visits or the duration of treatment.

As you progress through your treatment, keep track of the amount of time you’re spending in physical therapy. This will help ensure you remain within your insurance provider’s coverage limits and comply with state-specific Direct Access regulations.

It is also important to know that although Direct Access allows patients to seek physical therapy services without a referral, it is still vital to maintain open communication with your primary care provider or specialist. Our team will inform them of your physical therapy treatment and update them on your progress. This will help ensure coordinated care and may be necessary if a referral or prescription is eventually required.

In addition, our Atlantic Rehab Center specialists will submit your plan of care to be reviewed and signed off on by a registered doctor.

Contact us directly at Atlantic Rehab Center in Davie, Pembroke Pines, North Miami Beach, FL or Knoxville, TN, and we’ll schedule your appointment today!