Do I Need a Referral for Physical Therapy in Maine?

Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Patient Education on June 14, 2025

If you’re dealing with pain, recovering from surgery, or managing a chronic condition, you may be wondering:
Do I need a referral for physical therapy in Maine?

The good news is, you can often start treatment without one. Thanks to a law called Direct Access, most Maine residents can schedule physical therapy appointments without needing a doctor’s referral first.

What Is Direct Access?

Direct Access allows patients to see a physical therapist without a referral. This means you can begin your recovery journey sooner and avoid delays in getting the care you need.

So if you’re asking, “Can I skip the referral for physical therapy in Maine and just call my local clinic?” — the answer is often yes.

Will Insurance Still Cover It?

While Maine allows Direct Access, your insurance provider might still require a referral in order to reimburse your sessions.

Here’s how it typically works:

If you’re paying out-of-pocket: No referral is needed.
If you’re using insurance: It depends on your plan.

To avoid surprises, we recommend calling your provider — or checking your plan details on your insurance company’s website like Harvard Pilgrim or Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.

When a Referral Might Still Be Needed

Even though Direct Access exists, there are still times a referral for physical therapy in Maine may be necessary, especially when:

Your insurance plan requires it for billing
You’ve recently had surgery
Your physician wants to coordinate care across providers

When in doubt, it’s best to check. Our staff can help you navigate your specific situation.

Why Starting Physical Therapy Without Delay Is Important

The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of avoiding chronic pain and long-term complications.

Delaying care while waiting for a doctor’s appointment can slow down your progress and worsen your symptoms.

So, do you need a referral for physical therapy in Maine?

In most cases, no — you don’t. Most patients can schedule care directly, without a physician’s order, and begin the road to recovery right away.

Have questions about your insurance coverage or whether you need a referral? Just give us a call. We have 7 convenient locations across Southern Maine.