Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Your First Visit Video
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Who pays for treatment?
Please see Payment Options and Financial Policy Statement.
How does the billing process work?
Please see Payment Options and Financial Policy Statement.
Can I go directly to my physical therapist?
If you need Physical Therapy services, there are two ways that can happen:
- 1. Referral by a Physician (MD, DO), Surgeon (MD, DO, DDS), Physician Assistant (PA), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Chiropractor (DC), Podiatrist (DPM) (for problems below the knee only), Dentist (DDS, DMD).
- Self-Referral (Direct Access).
'Direct Access' is a term which describes the ability of a public person to see a Physical Therapist (PT) without physician referral. As of 10/2007, citizens in 44 states in the United States including Washington D.C. now have "direct access" to seeing a PT. This means that any patient has the legal right to seek out services from any PT that they wish to see.
In California, this 'direct access' is somewhat limited. While the PT can do an evaluation without a medical diagnosis, it is the opinion of the Attorney General that the patient must have a medical diagnosis before initiating treatment.
Can my therapist provide me with a diagnosis?
In California, as in most states, physical therapists cannot make a medical diagnosis. This is something that your medical doctor will provide for you.
Physical therapists are important members of your medical team. At this point in time, physicians are typically the health care providers that will provide you with a medical diagnosis.
When do I need a referral (prescription) to physical therapy?
A 'Referral' which is often in the form of a 'Prescription' for Physical Therapy is given to you by your physician or other qualified health care professional.
Most health insurance policies require a referral as part of their coverage policy. Most plans also enforce a 30-day limit on any referral. This means a referral written on the 1st of the month would expire on the 31st of that month, no matter when the actual Physical Therapy started during the month.
For the few insurances that don't require a referral, the patient must still have a medical diagnosis.
As part of the documentation with Medicare patients, a 'Plan of Care' is developed by the Physical Therapist and reviewed and must be signed by the referring doctor. The Plan is good for 30 days, then must be Recertified every 30 days thereafter through the treatment period.