Physical Therapy Appointments, Logistics, and FAQ

Physical Therapist stretching patient

How to Make a Physical Therapy Appointment

To make a physical therapy appointment at UHS, please call the front desk at (510) 642-0607. They will be able to assist you in scheduling an appointment.

Please note: In general, you will need a referral from your primary care physician for the particular body region being addressed. To find out if you're eligible for Direct Access and can see a physical therapist for a limited amount of time without a referral, please contact our front desk.

Eligibility 

All UC Berkeley students are eligible for services, regardless of insurance. Faculty and staff members with work related injuries can be referred through the Occupational Health Clinic.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment 

Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your initial evaluation to fill out a survey. Bring shorts, sports bras/tank tops, and/or exercise attire to your appointment. This will allow the injured area of your body to be adequately exposed for evaluation and treatment.

Fees

Fees for Physical Therapy services are paid at the Student Health Insurance Program (SHIP) office on the 3rd floor of Tang Center or will be billed to your Cal Student Central account. Visit our Billing and Cashier's Office webpage for more information on fees.

Initial Evaluation, approximately 60 minutes:

  • $15 co-pay (SHIP)
  • $250-$350 (non-SHIP)

Treatment Visit, approximately 30 minutes:

  • $15 co-pay (SHIP)
  • $150-$300 (non-SHIP)

Late Cancellation Policy

A cancellations fee of $25 will be charged for appointments that are:

  • Canceled with less than 24 hours notice
  • No-shows
  • Late arrivals who are asked to reschedule

Using the Health Opportunity Fund to pay for Physical Therapy Fees

The Health Opportunity Fund (HOF) is a set of funds available for use for services and prescriptions at the Tang Center to be used by the following students*:

  • Pell Grant and Dream Aid recipients 
  • Graduate students who have filed a FAFSA for the current year and have Pell Grant equivalent eligibility
  • Actively registered students in the Disabled Students Program (DSP) 

Frequently Asked Questions

What will happen during the initial evaluation? 

Your session will begin with a comprehensive evaluation by a physical therapist consisting of a functional assessment and muscular imbalances. You will then collaborate on a program that gets you back to your prior level of activity and function. 

Do I need a referral from a medical doctor?  

In general, you will need a referral from your primary care physician for the particular body region being addressed. To find out if you're eligible for Direct Access and can see a physical therapist  for a limited amount of time without a referral, please contact our front desk.

What if I don't have SHIP?

All eligible registered UC Berkeley students can be seen at University Health Services. Students without SHIP will have to pay for services in full and may submit a claim to their insurance company for possible reimbursement. If you have any questions about fees or need a receipt for services, please contact the Billing and Cashier's Office via the eTang portal, email uhscashier@berkeley.edu, or call (510) 642-8450.

View a list of sample fees and more on the Billing & Cashier's Office webpage.

How long are the sessions?

The initial evaluation will take approximately one hour, while the follow-up sessions are  approximately 30 minutes.

Can I be seen for multiple body parts?

Yes, if you have an initial injury involving multiple injuries, however, we may need separate evaluations for multiple body issues.

Do I need a new referral if my current referral has expired?

Yes, you will need a new referral.

What is direct access for physical therapy, and can I see a physical therapist without a referral?

Direct access allows individuals to see a licensed physical therapist without the need for a referral from a doctor. However, eligibility for direct access depends on certain criteria. To find out if you're eligible, please call our front desk at 510-642-0607. Our staff will ask you a few questions to determine if you qualify. Please note that after 12 visits or 45 days of treatment, you will need a referral to continue care.