What is Direct Access?
Direct Access allows you to begin physical therapy directly, which means you don’t need a doctor’s prescription or referral to start working with us. This access can help you address issues like pain, limited mobility, or strength loss faster by reducing the time needed to start treatment. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or simply seeking to improve your physical health, Direct Access puts you in control.
Benefits of Direct Access for You
Quick Start to Treatment: Without the need for a referral, you can begin therapy as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can lead to better outcomes, especially for injuries or conditions that require immediate attention.
Empowerment: Direct Access allows you to take charge of your health. You can decide when you want to begin your therapy, making it easier to fit treatment into your schedule.
How Does It Work?
Simply schedule your initial evaluation with one of our expert licensed physical therapists. During this first visit, we’ll further assess your condition, discuss your goals, and design a personalized treatment plan and get you feeling better. While Direct Access provides great flexibility to start getting help now, we advise you to schedule an appointment with any of your doctors to receive a prescription for physical therapy. If you don’t have a doctor we can recommend one for you. We can fax over the info to your doctor as well for them to sign the prescription. We will need a prescription within 45 days to make sure you have smooth progress throughout your care.
If any medical concerns arise during your treatment, we can coordinate care to ensure your health and safety.
We are here to help you feel your best and achieve your physical health goals! If you have any questions about Direct Access or are ready to schedule your appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Need a PT Referral? Meet Dr. Nishime
Dr. Nishime is committed to helping our patients receive the care they need! He offers quick and convenient evaluation appointments to assess your condition and provide a physical therapy referral if needed.
How to Schedule a Visit With Dr. Nishime
Go to www.JapanTownMed.com.
Select “Appointments” in the navigation bar at the top of the page.
To book an in-person office visit, click on the “Elation” link in the middle of the page.
Select “Robert Nishime, M.D.” in the provider dropdown menu.
Select appointment type in the dropdown menu.
“New Patient” for a client’s first visit
“Follow Up” for returning clients to Dr. Nishime’s office.
Select a DAY and TIME that works for the client.
Collect the following information from the client to continue as guest:
First name
Last name
Date of birth
Sex at birth
Email address
Phone number
Click “Continue”.
Prevent, Prime, Perform
Our Prevent, Prime, Perform program is designed to help you reduce injury risk while enhancing your fitness and performance. This program is ideal if you're looking to prevent re-injuries or new injuries from your activities, speed up recovery and healing, increase your strength, and improve your performance both on the field and in the gym.
If you're ready to take your health and fitness to the next level, click the button below to secure your spot! We can only accept 10 clients per month for this exclusive program, so if you're set to make a leap in your health, fitness, and performance, let our team know now!
Referral FAQ
What do I do if I am having trouble obtaining a referral from my doctor?
Please schedule a visit with Dr. Nishime to get evaluated for a PT referral. See the instructions above or click the button below.
What do I do if I do not have a PCP?
Please schedule a visit with Dr. Nishime to get evaluated for a PT referral. See the instructions above or click the button below.
I have a family member or friend that is a doctor. Can I just have them sign my POC or write me a referral?
It has to be a documented in person or telehealth visit with a licensed physician, surgeon or podiatrist.
I really don’t want to lose any time on my recovery journey. How can I still see my physical therapist?
PPP (must be confirmed by PT first; no superbills which means no reimbursement).
What if I have an old referral? Is that valid to use?
Only good for 1 year (365 days) from date on PT referral.
What if I have Kaiser?
Schedule with Kaiser, screenshot the appointment booking, then cancel within their cancellation period.
What counts as a physical therapy referral?
Signed POC or signed referral for physical therapy from licensed physician.
Do I need a referral for every treatment area?
Referrals are needed per case.
Can I provide a referral from out of state?
No. All referrals must be from a licensed physician, surgeon or podiatrist from within the state of California.
