Did you know….

You can be treated by a physical therapist without a referral from your physician?

As a healthcare consumer, you always have a choice of providers – you choose your doctor, your hospital, and your physical therapist. Pennsylvania is a “Direct Access” state.

What is Direct Access?

Direct access simply means you have the right to see your physical therapist as your primary practitioner. If you have aches, pains, or complaints, you can schedule an evaluation with your physical therapist at any time. There is no need to see your physician first.

Will My Insurance Cover Therapy Without a Physician Referral?

Most common insurances companies cover direct access to physical therapy, including: Highmark, UPMC, and Health America/Health Assurance. Medicare patients may also seek physical therapy treatment without a physician referral.

What are the Benefits of Direct Access?

By choosing to go directly to physical therapy, patients can decrease the delay of treatment, the cost, and frustration. Blue Cross Blue Shield stated that direct access episodes were shorter, encompassed fewer number of services, and were less costly than physician referred episodes.

The choice is always yours.