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.
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
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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.