Skip to main content
Rehabilitation Denial

TRICARE Denied Your Physical Therapy?

According to federal data, TRICARE (Military Health System) denies approximately 12% of claims. When patients appeal, about 55% are overturned. Your physical therapy denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.Sources: KFF ACA Marketplace Transparency Data, HHS OIG Reports, state insurance department filings. Rates are aggregate averages — individual results vary by plan type, denial reason, and documentation.

12%
Denial Rate
55%
Appeal Success
30-60 days
Typical Timeline
$2,000–$10,000
Typical Claim

Based on published government and industry research. Individual results vary based on denial type, insurer, and documentation.

Why TRICARE Denies Physical Therapy

Visit limit exceeded per plan year

Maintenance therapy — no longer improving

Prior authorization expired or not renewed

TRICARE's Common Denial Tactics

Denying non-network care when network providers unavailable

Prior authorization requirements for specialty referrals

Classifying care as not medically necessary per DoD criteria

How to Win Your Physical Therapy Appeal

Objective measurement of functional progress (ROM, strength, balance scores)

Treatment plan with specific, measurable goals

Documentation that cessation would cause regression

For Medicare: cite Jimmo v. Sebelius settlement requiring maintenance coverage

Laws That Protect You

ACA §2719 — Appeal rights

Jimmo v. Sebelius (Medicare) — Maintenance therapy coverage

State mandated minimums for PT visits

Tips for Appealing to TRICARE

TRICARE appeals go through the Defense Health Agency, not state regulators

Cite DoD medical necessity criteria specifically

Request a formal reconsideration before escalating to the DHA

Ready to Review Your Physical Therapy Denial?

Upload your denial letter and get a clear analysis in minutes. We'll identify potential weaknesses in TRICARE's reasoning and outline your appeal options.

Analyze My Denial Free

Analysis is always free. No credit card required.

This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Statistics cited are from publicly available sources including KFF, HHS OIG, and state insurance department data. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before taking action on your specific situation.

TRICARE Denied Your Physical Therapy? Here's How to Appeal | Lysco