Physical therapy can help a patient recover from injuries/surgery, manage chronic pain, and prevent future injuries. Physical therapy plays a key part in a patient’s rehabilitation and improving their body’s quality of movement. However, before a patient can even begin physical therapy, it is necessary to address concerns over cost. The potential for multiple physical therapy sessions adding up leads many patients to ask: Will my insurance cover physical therapy?
The simple answer? Yes. Fortunately, most major health insurance plans, including private insurance, Medicare, and workers’ comp will cover physical therapy.
In almost all cases, the cost of physical therapy will at least be minimized because of insurance if the services are considered medically necessary. Physical therapy is generally considered to be medically necessary if it has been prescribed by a physician, will be overseen by a licensed, trained physical therapist, and will improve the patient’s condition within a reasonable amount of time.
Physical therapy runs the risk of not being covered if it is not considered medically necessary. If a patient was not expected to improve from the therapy or had an injury that would heal naturally over time, it is unlikely that healthcare providers will view their situation as medically necessary.
Another term to look for regarding insured physical therapy is essential benefits. Essential health benefits are a set of 10 categories of health services that health insurance plans must cover. The essential benefits that could be reason for physical therapy coverage are preventive and wellness care, management of a chronic condition, or rehabilitative services.
It is very important to note that while most insurance plans cover physical therapy, there is no one set price when it comes to how much your provider will cover. Before attending your first physical therapy appointment, you should contact your insurance provider to make sure that your physical therapy is covered by your plan and what, if any, fees you will be required to pay.
If you are unsure whether your physical therapy will be covered at Activity First, check out our Insurance Provider List on our website and call our office at 732-538-9280 if you have any more questions!