Can physical therapists write prescriptions?

Physical therapists cannot write prescriptions for medications, even though many of them hold doctorate degrees. In fact, many states require that patients have a prescription to see a physical therapist in order for it to be covered under most insurance plans.

Physical therapists may refer to their treatment plans as exercise prescriptions. These generally include an outline of different exercises that a patient must do in order to reach optimal health after an injury, surgery or other health issue. The exercise prescription may also include exercises and work that the patient must do at home in order to augment their health and recovery period.