If you’re dealing with pain or mobility issues, getting started with the right care quickly is key. Fortunately, Maine is a Direct Access state for Physical Therapy, meaning you can take charge of your well-being without a referral. Skip the doctor visit, avoid unnecessary delays, and start your recovery today.
Direct access allows you to see a licensed physical therapist in Maine without needing a referral from a physician. This streamlined process gives you faster, more convenient access to care, targeting pain relief and rehabilitation when you need it most. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or improving overall mobility, direct access empowers you to take control of your health.
A licensed Physical Therapist in Maine can evaluate and treat you directly for up to 30 days, as long as your condition doesn’t require a medical diagnosis. If you do not see improvement within 30 days, you will need a referral to continue treatment.
However, if you do have improvement within 30 days, treatment can continue without a physician referral for up to 120 days, ensuring you have the time necessary to heal and recover.
No! Maine law allows licensed physical therapists to assess and treat patients without a doctor’s referral for many conditions. This means you can theoretically walk into a clinic, discuss your pain or concerns, and begin therapy the same day. However, if your condition requires a medical diagnosis or doesn’t show improvement within 30 days, your therapist will collaborate with or refer you to a healthcare provider.
Coverage for direct access physical therapy depends on your insurance plan. Many commercial insurance providers in Maine support physical therapy without a referral, but it’s always a good idea to confirm your benefits ahead of time.
If you’re unsure what your specific insurance plan covers or does not cover, our team can help review your insurance to make sure you understand your coverage.
Direct access physical therapy puts you in control of your health. It prioritizes faster treatment, reducing delays that may worsen your condition over time. This is especially helpful if you’re experiencing pain, recovering from an injury, or dealing with limited mobility. Physical therapists specialize in rehabilitation plans tailored to your specific needs, making it a safe and effective option for conservative treatment.
Thankfully, there’s no need to wait to start seeing a specialist for many types of joint pain, injury rehabilitation, or other concerns you may have. And even if you don’t have insurance, Back in Motion works through self-pay options to make treatment simple and accessible for anyone.
We’re happy to answer any questions you still may have. Start the conversation with our team by calling a clinic near you or by requesting an appointment using the form on this page.
