14/11/2025
Doctor notes for physical therapy (PT) are a big deal—here’s why they matter.
1. Medical necessity: A doctor’s note confirms you need PT for a specific condition (injury, post-surgery, chronic pain). Without it, insurance often won’t cover sessions.
2. Customized treatment: The doctor’s diagnosis and goals guide the PT plan. Think of it as a prescription for exactly what you need (e.g., “Improve knee ROM post ACL surgery”).
3. Legal protection: The note ensures coordination between healthcare providers. If something goes wrong, it shows the PT followed a doctor-approved plan (protecting both you and the therapist).
4. Insurance compliance: Most insurers require a physician’s referral/prescription for coverage. Without it, you’ll likely pay out-of-pocket (and it gets pricey fast).
5. Progress tracking: Doctors can monitor progress via PT updates, adjusting meds/treatment if needed. This keeps everyone on the same page for faster recovery.
6. Clear communication: The note bridges the gap between doctor and PT. It highlights priorities (e.g., pain management, strength, mobility) so the therapist knows exactly what to focus on.
*What should the note include?*
- Diagnosis (e.g., “Rotator cuff repair, limited ROM”)
- Specific goals (e.g., “Improve shoulder flexion to 150°”)
- Frequency/duration (e.g., “2x/week for 6 weeks”)
- Any precautions (e.g., “No heavy lifting post-op”)
Bottom line: A doctor’s note = a tailored, covered, and effective PT program.