Medicare & Physical Therapy: A Patient’s Guide

Navigating Medicare for physical therapy can be complex, but knowing the process is key. Medicare allows you to see a physical therapist without a referral. They’ll assess your condition and create a personalized plan of care. However, this plan needs a physician’s approval before treatment.

Your physician may require an additional visit if they haven’t seen you specifically for the condition requiring therapy. This ensures they understand your situation. If they’re familiar with your health issues, they may approve the plan without an extra visit, making the process efficient.

Why is this important? Here’s why:

1. Get started early: Starting pain relief sooner than later makes recovery faster. Sometimes it can take weeks or even months to get into a doctor. We can get you in same or next day!
2. Improved Mobility: Physical therapy restores strength, flexibility, and balance, reducing fall risk and improving daily life.
3. Pain Management: It eases chronic pain and post-surgery discomfort, enhancing your quality of life.
4. Rehab After Surgery: Vital for post-operative recovery, it restores range of motion and functionality.
5. Preventing Decline: Personalized programs help maintain independence as you age.
6. Fall Prevention: Focus on balance and coordination reduces fall risk.
7. Chronic Conditions: For issues like arthritis or diabetes, physical therapy complements treatment, managing symptoms and improving overall health.

Understanding Medicare’s benefits and accessing physical therapy early is vital for a healthier, more active life as you age. For a vibrant, pain-free future, explore options, and take that first step. Don’t put your life off any longer. Call Salisbury Physical Therapy or your local Physical Therapist right away! Your golden years should be filled with joy and vitality.