Physical therapy is the obvious choice for conditions like, but not limited to, lower back pain, knee pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, and sports injuries. Research shows seeing a physical therapist first can save you money and, in many cases, will result in fewer overall treatment sessions. Thanks to California’s Direct Access law, you may be able to start PT without a referral from a doctor.
There are certain requirements but here is how it works:
Direct Access may allow you to see a licensed physical therapist without a doctor referral for NEW injuries. However, if you have already seen a doctor about your condition, and received a diagnosis, Direct Access may not apply.
If you qualify, Direct Access PT is covered for up to 45 days or 12 visits, whichever comes first. After 45 days or 12 visits, you may continue treatment only after completing an in-person examination and evaluation by your doctor and obtaining a signed referral or updated plan of care.
Most PPO plans cover Direct Access PT. Medicare allows it but requires your doctor to review and sign your plan of care within 30 days. HMO plans, LA Care, and Workers’ Compensation typically require a referral and/or prior authorization. It is suggested that you check your insurance plan to determine your eligibility and/or requirements.
Taking advantage of Direct Access Physical Therapy may get you faster and more convenient care. It may also be less expensive and a quicker way for you to receive treatment as you may not need to see your doctor first.
Learn more at CatalinaIslandHealth.org/physical-occupational-therapy/ or call 310-510-5152 to see if Direct Access PT is a possibility for you.
About Catalina Island Fitness and Physical Therapy
Catalina Island Fitness is a part of Catalina Island Health. Featuring state-of-the-art equipment, it is the island’s only proper gym. It is open to the public offering daily, weekly and monthly passes. A discounted membership is offered for island residents. Free classes are offered monthly for seniors 60 and over. It also houses CIH’s outpatient physical therapy department. The Fitness Center is located in the Shops at the Atwater, 119 Sumner Ave, Suite E in the heart of Avalon.
For more information, call 310-510-5152 or visit CatalinaIslandFitness.com.
About Catalina Island Health
CI Health’s primary care physicians and family nurse practitioners provide the island community with a solid foundation of care. The medical clinic is located at 100 Falls Canyon Road, Avalon, CA, up the street from Avalon’s City Hall on the bottom level of the hospital. Its hours are 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Visit CatalinaIslandHealth.org or call 310-510-0096 for more information or to make an appointment.
The emergency room is staffed 24/7 with a UC Irvine Emergency Medicine Physician and supported by the CI Health’s laboratory and diagnostic imaging departments to meet the acute medical needs of Catalina Island’s residents and visitors.
With the use of patient satisfaction surveys, patients consistently rank CI Health’s emergency services as one of the best in the nation. The hospital’s main number is 310-510-0700. For more information, visit CatalinaIslandHealth.org.
