Direct Access

What is Direct Access?

With direct access, patients are now able to receive Physical Therapy services without a physician referral or prescription. However, some specific insurance plans may still require a referral in order to provide reimbursement for services. (This does not apply to hand therapy services at Life In Motion as hand therapy is administered by an Occupational Therapist.)

Does Florida have Direct Access?

Yes. According to the Physical Therapy Practice Act of Florida, a person may be treated for up to 30 days without a physician referral. However, your individual insurance may also have additional rules. Life In Motion will verify your specific benefits and discuss them in detail with you.

Why would I use Direct Access?

Having Direct Access allows you to be evaluated and treated immediately by a Physical Therapist. If your condition is within their scope of practice, immediate treatment can result in better outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Under what circumstances should I seek out Physical Therapy?

A Physical Therapist can treat many conditions. At Life In Motion, we specialize in orthopedics. Some of the issues that can be addressed include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Arthritis management
  • Back pain
  • General injury prevention
  • Foot/Ankle pPain
  • Hip pain
  • Knee pain
  • Muscle imbalances
  • Neck pain
  • Orthopedic injuries
  • Rehab before and after joint replacement
  • Repetitive use conditions
  • Shoulder pain
  • Sports injuries
  • Sprains and strains
  • Vertigo and balance issues
  • Weakness

A Physical Therapist can also be a valuable source of information. If you have a condition or an injury that is outside the scope of practice of your Physical Therapist, they will refer you to another health care provider that can more appropriately address your needs.

How do I know that my PT is qualified to treat my condition?

Physical Therapists are health care professionals who hold a state license and who have graduated from an accredited Physical Therapy program from an approved university. They have received training in medical screening and differential diagnosis as it relates to the practice of Physical Therapy. If at any time, the Physical Therapist feels that you are not making progress or that your condition is more involved, they will refer you to an appropriate specialist.

Does my insurance cover Direct Access?

Most insurance allows for some type of direct access. Life In Motion will verify your individual benefits for you. We will explain the guidelines that are set by your specific insurance policy.

If I don’t have insurance, can I still use Direct Access?

Absolutely. You would be considered a self-pay patient and we would be happy to discuss the self-pay fees with you. These fees would be due at the time the services are rendered.

How do I get started?

If you feel like Direct Access is the best option for you, just give us a call. Our staff will need your name, your insurance policy number (if you have one), your date of birth and a brief description of your condition. You will be given a scheduled appointment time. Then, we will call on your behalf to verify your benefits. Our staff will do a follow-up call with you to explain the particulars of your specific insurance.

For more information Contact Us.