Direct access to a physical therapist now available at Lakeview Regional

Lakeview Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center, a Campus of Tulane Medical Center is happy to announce they now offer Direct Access to Physical Therapy services. This means an individual can be evaluated and treated by a physical therapist without first seeing their physician for a prescription referral. This improved access to providers who are experts in musculoskeletal issues and movement disorders will also lessen the burden on primary care physicians.

Accessibility to, and timely treatment by, a licensed physical therapist, promotes optimal outcomes and recovery. According to a study conducted by the American Physical Therapy Association, patients who visited a physical therapist directly for outpatient care had fewer visits and lower overall costs on average than those who were referred by a physician.

“When an individual can relieve their pain, improve their movement, and restore their quality of life without delay, that is our goal,” stated Chris Benigno, Director of Rehabilitation Services. Diagnoses and treatment by physical therapists can range from back pain, including bulging discs or degenerative spine, sport injuries, gait problems, difficulties with balance, or any musculoskeletal pain. In most cases treatment can begin immediately with very little risk of further injury.

While cash prices are available for services, the Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Center can contact your insurance provider to determine if a physician’s referral is needed for reimbursement.

Lakeview Hospital , a campus of Tulane Medical Center, offers comprehensive services of the highest level of treatment in speech, physical and occupational therapy services in the region. The dedicated Sports Medicine team brings experience in the latest technologies to improve mobility and balance. The rehabilitation complex features six private therapy rooms allowing for the daily treatment of many patients.