Direct Access In California

Since 2014, Californians have had Direct Access to physical therapy. This means that, in most cases, you can be evaluated and treated by a licensed physical therapist without needing a referral from your physician (except for Medicare—see details below).

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Direct Access offers several benefits:

• You receive quicker access to the treatment you need.

• Research shows that seeing a physical therapist first can save you money.

• Starting with physical therapy often results in fewer overall treatment sessions.

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Direct Access in California does have limitations:

• You can receive physical therapy for 45 days or 12 visits, whichever comes first.

• If you do not obtain a referral before the Direct Access period ends, you are required to visit your physician’s office to get one, prior to resuming physical therapy.

• Once you have seen a physical therapist using Direct Access, you must obtain a new referral to return for more treatment in the future.

• Referrals must be signed by a MD, Physician’s Assistant, or Nurse Practitioner.

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Medicare requirements: Those with Medicare must be under the care of a physician licensed in the state they receive care. Physical therapists are required to obtain the signature of the referring physician on our treatment plan, called a Plan of Care. Therefore, if you have Medicare, you must have a current referral prior to your first visit.