What is Direct Access?
Direct Access gives the patient the ability to be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist without a medical doctor’s prescription or referral. With Direct Access you do not need to be referred to physical therapy by a medical doctor, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant. Direct Access is also called self referral. In New York, treatment can be rendered under direct access for up to ten visits or thirty days, whichever comes first. After that, you will need a prescription to continue therapy.
Why is Direct Access important?
Many injuries can be successfully evaluated and treated without having to visit your physician first and incur additional time and expense.
Who is eligible for Direct Access?
Any person in New York is eligible for Direct Access treatment with the following exceptions: Workers’ Compensation, No Fault, and Medicare patients are not eligible for Direct Access.
Does my Insurance cover Direct Access?
It depends on the type of coverage you have. For the most part, commercial insurance will pay on Direct Access. Feel free to contact our Front Desk staff, who will be able to answer specific insurance questions.
