Do You Need a Referral for Physical Therapy in California?
Today I want to talk to you about whether you need a referral for physical therapy in California.
The good news is in 2014, California was granted limited direct access. What this means is that you can come to physical therapy without a referral from a physician for up to 12 visits or 45 days.
This is great news. This gets you in for physical therapy before your body starts to compensate and adapt to any of the pain or dysfunction that you’ve had. This will definitely lead to a faster recovery as early care helps you get back to normal function more quickly.
Verify Your Insurance Benefits
Direct access can vary based on your insurance or plan, so we definitely want you to contact your insurance company and verify your benefits. We can have one of our staff members help you do this, or you can call your insurance plan directly.
If we’ve reached the end of that direct access period, meaning you’ve exhausted your 12 visits or 45 days, you would have to go to a physician to receive a referral for continued care at that time.
So please reach out, give our office a call, and we’d love to have you in soon. If you are considering physical therapy and want to learn how it can help you, contact us to arrange for a complimentary consultation or evaluation. Just call us at (925) 284-3840 today.
Lauren Masi is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, board-certified clinical specialist and certified athletic trainer. She earned her bachelor’s degree in physiological science from UCLA, a master’s degree in physical therapy from CSU Northridge, and a doctorate from the University of St. Augustine. As owner of Lafayette Physical Therapy and Bay Area Physical Therapy, she has assembled a skilled team to provide highly personalized and effective care. Lauren’s extensive career encompasses expertise in various physical therapy techniques, including Mulligan and Paris methods, myofascial release, and spinal mobilization. Lauren enjoys horseback riding and family time when not treating patients.