Direct Access to Physical Therapy
In California, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist.
Californians have had Direct Access to physical therapy since 2014. In most situations, you can be evaluated and treated by a licensed physical therapist without first seeing your physician for a referral (except for Medicare- see details below).
Direct Access provides a number of benefits:
- You receive quicker access to the treatment you need.
- Research shows seeing a physical therapist first can save you money.
- Going to physical therapy first, in many cases, will result in fewer overall treatment sessions.
Direct Access in California does have limitations.
- You can receive physical therapy for 45 days or 12 visits, whichever comes first.
- If you do not obtain a referral before the Direct Access period ends, you are required to visit your physician’s office to obtain a referral, prior to resuming physical therapy.
- Once you have seen a physical therapist using Direct Access, you are required to obtain a physician’s referral to return for more treatment in the future.
Medicare requirements: Those with Medicare must be under the care of a physician licensed in the state they receive care. Physical therapists are required to obtain the signature of the referring physician on our treatment plan, called a Plan of Care. Therefore, if you have Medicare, we ask you to obtain a referral before your first visit.
Please call our office if you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment. Contact Us.