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Direct Access

Direct Access allows a patient to receive physical therapy services without first obtaining a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider, if certain conditions are met. These conditions vary by state.

Direct Access to Physical Therapy in North Carolina

In North Carolina, Direct Access allows you to receive physical therapy services without first obtaining a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider. Physical therapy does does not include the application of roentgen rays or radioactive materials, surgery, manipulation of the spine unless prescribed by a physician licensed to practice medicine in North Carolina, or medical diagnosis of disease.  Your physical therapist must refer you to a physician if your needs are beyond the scope of services which a physical therapist can provide.

In North Carolina, any licensed physical therapist is eligible to provide physical therapy services under Direct Access. We offer Direct Access to physical therapy services at the following location(s) :

Direct Access to Physical Therapy in Virginia

In Virginia, Direct Access allows you to receive physical therapy services for up to 14 consecutive business days prior to obtaining a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider. Certain conditions apply, including:

  • Your physical therapist is Direct Access Certified
  • The patient must be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist who has obtained a certificate of authorization for Direct Access
  • The patient may be treated for no more than 14 consecutive business days after evaluation without a referral (business days are defined as Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays)
  • The patient at the time of presentation for services attests that he/she is not currently being cared for by another healthcare practitioner
  • The patient identifies a practitioner from whom they intend to seek treatment for the condition if it does not improve during the physical therapy care
  • The patient gives written consent for the physical therapist to release personal health information to that practitioner
  • The physical therapist provides the written initial evaluation/plan of care to the identified practitioner no later than 3 days after treatment begins

The following member(s) of our staff are Direct Access Certified to offer physical therapy services via Direct Access in Virginia:

In Virginia, Direct Access allows you to receive a one-time physical therapy evaluation, no treatment provided, without first obtaining a referral from a physician or other healthcare provider. In this case, the physical therapist is not required to be Direct Access Certified. You can request this evaluation at the following locations:

For additional information about Direct Access in Virginia, visit the Virginia Physical Therapy Association

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