Direct Access
Physical Therapy Direct Access in the state of Florida defines the rules and regulation that patients are able to be evaluated and treated by a licensed physical therapist without a physician’s referral. In some cases your insurance plans may still require you to consult with a physician first, in order to be reimbursed for services, so please check with your insurance provider as plans differ. Direct access benefits patients in that it allows patients to receive treatment immediately, saving time and money.
Florida State Provisions (Direct Access to Physical Therapy Laws)
- Must refer patient or consult with health care practitioner if the patient’s condition is outside scope of PT.
- If PT treatment is required beyond 21 days for a condition not previously assessed by a practitioner of record, the PT shall obtain a practitioner of record who will review and sign the plan.
- Prohibits PTs from implementing plan of treatment for patients in acute care settings including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and mobile surgical facilities.
More information is available from:
American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) (PDF )
