The Illinois Physical Therapy Act (Direct Access in Illinois)

Since August 16, 2018, Illinois residents are not required to obtain a referral from a physician or other healthcare practitioner to begin physical therapy. Under the Illinois Physical Therapy Act, patients can go directly to an Illinois-licensed physical therapist for evaluation and treatment — often called direct access to physical therapy in Illinois.

Can You Start Physical Therapy Without a Doctor’s Referral?

Yes. Direct access allows you to see a physical therapist without seeing your doctor first. This can help you start care sooner and reduce delays. However, coverage rules vary by plan, so it’s important to verify insurance requirements before your first visit.

Insurance and Employer Plan Requirements

While Illinois law permits direct access, your insurance policy may still have specific rules about referrals or prior authorization. Before your initial session, contact your health plan to confirm coverage for physical therapy without a referral in Illinois. Some employer plans and labor funds may still require a script from your primary care provider (PCP) either before the first appointment or after the physical therapist’s evaluation. In addition, all workers’ compensation cases require prior authorization.

Need help verifying benefits? Contact our front desk and we’ll walk you through your plan’s requirements.

When a Referral Is Still Required

Under the Illinois Physical Therapy Act, a patient will be referred to a healthcare professional in the following situations:

• There is no measurable or functional improvement after 10 visits or 15 business days (whichever comes first).
• A patient returns for services for the same or similar condition after 30 calendar days following discharge by the physical therapist.
• The condition is evaluated and determined to be beyond the scope of physical therapy practice.

Therapist Notification Requirement

If a physical therapist provides care without a referral, Illinois law requires the therapist to notify the patient’s treating healthcare professional (e.g., primary care doctor) within 5 business days after the patient’s first visit that the patient is receiving physical therapy.

Why Direct Access Matters

• Faster access to care and earlier pain relief.
• Reduced costs and fewer specialist visits when appropriate.
• Timely evaluation to identify red flags and coordinate referral when needed.

Related Services at PD Rehab

At PD Rehab Physical Therapy & Wellness, we offer advanced manual therapy and whole-body approaches to care. Learn more:

• Fascial Counterstrain (gentle, non-invasive manual therapy)
• Patient education & blog resources

FAQs About the Illinois Physical Therapy Act

Do I need a doctor’s referral for physical therapy in Illinois?

No. Since 2018, Illinois allows direct access to physical therapy. You can schedule an evaluation without a doctor’s script; however, your insurance plan may still require a referral for coverage.

Will my insurance cover physical therapy without a referral?

Coverage varies by plan. Some insurers allow direct access, while others still need a referral or prior authorization. We recommend verifying benefits before your first visit.

What happens if I don’t improve within 10 visits or 15 business days?

Your physical therapist will refer you to an appropriate healthcare professional for further evaluation, per Illinois law.

Does workers’ compensation require authorization?

Yes. All workers’ compensation plans require prior authorization before starting physical therapy.