Most patients being treated by a Licensed Physical Therapist are referred by a Physician and do have a prescription, However, in 2006 a Direct Access law was passed, allowing NY State licensed physical therapists with 3 years of experience to treat patients without a prescription from their MD for 30 days or 10 visits, which ever comes first. A prescription from a Medical Doctor, Orthopedist, Nurse Practitioner, Podiatrist, Osteopath or a Dentist is then required for further treatment. Please check with your insurance company regarding their policy on this law. Some insurance companies including No Fault, Workmans’ Compensation and Medicare require prescriptions at all times for services to be covered.