How many days does Medicare require for physician certification of the need for physical, occupational, or speech therapy to be completed after therapy begins?

Medicare requires physician certification of the need for physical, occupational, or speech therapy to be completed within 30 days after therapy begins. This requirement is in place to ensure that the therapy being provided is deemed necessary by a qualified healthcare professional, aligning with Medicare's guidelines for coverage.

The 30-day timeframe allows for timely certification which is critical for maintaining the care continuity and ensuring that patients receive appropriate therapy services without unnecessary delays. This regulation helps in properly documenting the patient's condition and the necessity of the interventions, thus supporting the integrity of the therapy process and compliance with Medicare rules. Ensuring this certification is completed within the specified time frame also facilitates a smoother reimbursement process for the healthcare provider.