Direct Access
How Direct Access To Physical Therapy Works
Direct access to physical therapy means that you can schedule an appointment and see a licensed physical therapist without the need for a physician’s referral or prescription. In South Carolina, patients can enjoy direct access to PT for up to 30 days from the initial evaluation without a referral.
However, if the physical therapy treatment extends beyond 30 days, the patient will then need to obtain a referral or prescription from a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.
Benefits of Direct Access Physical Therapy
Rising healthcare costs can put a strain on your budget, but did you know that seeking the services of a physical therapist directly can save you money? With Direct Access Physical Therapy, you can avoid costly healthcare provider visits, unnecessary imaging, and referrals to other specialists. Plus, most insurance groups cover physical therapy under direct access or self-referral, so you can be assured that your treatment is affordable.
With Direct Access Physical Therapy, you can start your treatment right away, without any delay. This is especially important for conditions that need immediate attention for optimal outcomes. Physical therapy is a low-cost and high-value healthcare service that provides effective treatment for a wide range of conditions.
At our clinic, we will verify your insurance benefits and coverage before your initial evaluation, so you can focus on your recovery without any unexpected surprises. Don’t wait any longer to start your healing journey with Direct Access Physical Therapy.
Is Direct Access Safe?
All of our Vertex clinicians are Doctors of Physical Therapy which means they are trained to spot “red flags” that may point to the need for more extensive medical treatment, such as surgery. In those cases, your physical therapist will immediately refer you to your physician or healthcare provider.
To date, there is no research showing that self-referral to physical therapy puts patients at increased risk. Also, there is no evidence that self-referred patients spend more on healthcare during or after their physical therapy care visits.
If you have a musculoskeletal condition that interferes with your ability to move without pain, use your best judgment when deciding which healthcare provider to see. A visit to your local physical therapist is a safe place to start on the road to recovery.
Does My Insurance Plan Cover Direct Access?
Yes, if Vertex is in-network with your insurance provider, then your insurance plan covers direct access to physical therapy. There won’t be any difference in the cost of the service for you as a patient, whether you have a prior referral to PT or not. Contact us to verify your insurance coverage before your first visit.
How Do I Get Started?
Looking to start physical therapy without a physician referral? It’s easy! Just give our office a call and let us know that you’re interested in direct access. Your first appointment will be just like any other physical therapy evaluation, where the therapist will assess your condition and determine if physical therapy services would be beneficial for you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and start your journey to improved health and wellness!
For more information, be sure to check out this episode of the Better Faster Podcast or contact us if you have any further questions.
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