Direct Access

Can I start Physical Therapy without a Referral

What is Direct Access?

Under Michigan law, Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists Physical Therapy offers direct access to physical therapy without a physician referral. You can begin your treatment with us for up to 10 visits or 21 days without a script or referral. However, please note that most insurance carriers still require a signed plan of care from a physician for billing purposes. It's important to check with your insurance company to determine if your benefits cover direct access for your physical therapy care. If you have an injury, pain, difficulty walking, limitations in movement, or any other concerns, you are a candidate for direct access.

Can I Start Physical Therapy without a Doctor's Referral?

Yes, you can start physical therapy without a doctor's referral. In Michigan, it is known as Direct Access. At ORS Physical Therapy, we recommend keeping your doctor informed about any medical treatments you are undergoing. While you can begin treatment with us directly, we will inform your doctor about your decision to seek treatment at ORS Physical Therapy.

Evaluation and Treatment Process for Physical Therapy

To initiate your treatment, call 877-202-2175 to schedule an initial evaluation at any of our 12 ORS locations. The evaluation includes a full medical screening to determine the appropriate care for you. Please note that the evaluation appointment costs $137.50, payable with cash or credit card upfront.

We will share the evaluation results with your doctor. Upon receiving the plan of care, your doctor will review the information, make any necessary adjustments, and authorize your treatment. If your doctor agrees with our assessment, you can begin your treatments at ORS Physical Therapy. During your treatment, we will regularly evaluate your progress and keep your physician(s) updated.

If, at any point, we determine that your symptoms or conditions require services beyond the scope of our practice, we will refer you to the appropriate healthcare professional. If you do not have a primary care physician, we can assist you in finding one near your home or work.

Scheduling and Insurance Coverage - Patient Support at ORS

Once your treatment plan is approved, we will schedule your recommended appointments. With Direct Access, you are allowed up to 10 visits or 21 days to work with ORS before involving a doctor.

If your insurance does not cover the cost of the initial evaluation, please note that it is $137.50 and can be paid with cash or credit card at the time of the evaluation.

In case your insurance benefits do not cover the cost of your treatments, our office can assist you in making convenient payment arrangements. We have successfully set up affordable payment plans for our patients in the past.

Importance of a Signed Plan of Care

Most insurance companies require a signed plan of care by a physician before paying for physical therapy services. If your healthcare policy follows this requirement and your doctor chooses not to sign the plan of care, you may be responsible for the costs of your treatment.

In the event that your insurance benefits do not cover your physical therapy treatments, our office will work with you to establish convenient payment options for your treatment.