A: A referral is not always necessary. It is dependent on each specific insurance company/plan. Nebraska is a direct access state for physical therapy. This means that you can access physical therapy care without a referral. If you would like your insurance to pay for physical therapy services, it is important to contact your insurance company to determine if a referral is necessary for benefits to be paid out. If insurance is not available, you do not need a referral.

A: Nebraska is a “DIRECT ACCESS” state. This means that legislation in Nebraska was passed allowing licensed physical therapists to evaluate and treat patients without first seeing a physician. Likewise as a “Direct Access” patient you do not need a prescription from your physician to receive out-patient physical therapy. However, many insurance plans do require you to have a prescription from your physician in order for outpatient physical therapy services to be covered and paid for by the insurance carrier.

As a “Direct Access” provider, physical therapists can truly provide direct access for diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments, functional limitations and disabilities related to movement functionality. Physical therapists are experts in proficiently evaluating a patient’s musculoskeletal condition; and if appropriate, safely and effectively treating the patient. Physical therapists are highly-trained healthcare professionals, educated at the baccalaureate and post-baccalaureate level with extensive clinical training. Physical therapists have a proven track record of effectively treating millions of patients.

Physical therapists are also well-qualified to recognize when patients demonstrate conditions that should be evaluated by other healthcare professionals. We will suggest a referral to other health care professionals if necessary. In addition, with your permission, we will send our results to your physician and will work in conjunction with him/her. 

~American Physical Therapy Association

www.apta.org

A: You should bring a prescription from your doctor if you have one, X-rays if you have them, the MRI or CAT scan report if you have it, and your insurance card.

Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your appointment time to complete the necessary paperwork.