What is Direct Access?
Direct access is a law that allows patients to have an evaluation and seek treatment from a physical therapist without a prescription or referral from a physician, dentist, podiatrist, or nurse practitioner. This ease of access allows direct interaction between patients and therapists.
Why utilize direct access?
You can receive treatment sooner without a prescription! If you strained your low back lifting heavy boxes, sprained your ankle playing soccer, or just want a tune-up for a chronic neck problem, you can come see us right away! You do not have to wait to get an appointment with your physical therapist, which could take weeks, missing out on professional physical therapy treatment that can decrease your pain, improve your mobility, and get you back doing what you want to do. The benefits of direct access ensure timely care.
Will my insurance cover my PT sessions?
Over 90% of commercial insurances will cover treatment for Physical Therapy. Before your first visit, Specialized Physical Therapy will perform an insurance verification and confirm that you are covered under direct access. If your plan requires a PT referral, that will be clearly communicated to you prior to your initial visit, so you understand the specifics of direct access coverage.
What are the New Jersey State laws for direct access?
Since 2003, New Jersey allows physical therapists to treat patients without a referral for 30 days. A physical therapist shall refer any individual who has failed to demonstrate reasonable progress within 30 days of the date of initial treatment to a licensed health care professional only if symptoms have not improved. This regulation supports the framework of direct access in New Jersey.
I have Medicare as my primary insurance, can I still get treated without a prescription?
Medicare beneficiaries can go directly to physical therapists without a referral or visit to a physician. The plan of care developed by the PT must be certified by a physician or nonphysician practitioner (NPP) within 30 days of the initial therapy visit.
Conclusion
If you have been suffering from a low back pain, a sprained ankle, a nagging shoulder injury, or just generalized aches and pains, you can give us a call or send over an email to get started in physical therapy without a doctor’s prescription. With direct access, initiating therapy is straightforward and convenient.