Which parts of Medicare cover rehab and physical therapy?
You can get coverage for physical therapy in different ways, depending on the type of Medicare plan.
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, may help cover the cost of physical therapy services.
Medicare coverage differences often depend on whether you need inpatient or outpatient physical therapy treatment.
Does Medicare cover outpatient physical therapy?
Medicare Part B covers outpatient physical therapy. The exact cost you pay may vary depending on where you get therapy and the kind of therapy you need. Be sure you understand which kinds of therapy are covered by your benefits. Part B generally only covers medically necessary services.
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How does Medicare cover inpatient vs outpatient physical therapy?
- Part A: If you’re recovering from surgery at an inpatient facility and need some kind of physical rehab, Part A may cover PT.
- Part B: Medicare Part B plans may cover rehab care and physical therapy (PT) if it’s part of an inpatient rehab program. Part B may also cover certain outpatient rehab and physical therapy (PT) care. If you enter physical therapy to help with pain or after coming home from surgery, Part B may cover costs. Learn more about how Medicare Parts A and B cover physical therapy services.
- Part C: Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans can cover physical therapy since it offers the same PT coverage you get with Part A and Part B but often with added benefits.
It’s important to note that Medicare does not/doesn’t cover physical therapy offered by telehealth/via telehealth services.
This is why understanding the different parts of Medicare — including what each part covers and what Medicare Part A, B or C may or may not cover — can help you choose the right Medicare plan for the physical therapy services you need when it’s time to enroll.
How much does Medicare pay for physical therapy (PT) per visit?
Medicare payments for physical therapy can vary in amount.
For inpatient care, the Part A Medicare allowance for physical therapy is measured in days after your deductible is met. In 2026, the Part A deductible is $1,736. From day 1 to 60, you have a $0 copay per benefit period. From day 61 to 90, that increases to $434 per day per benefit period. From day 91 onward, it’s an $868 copay for each lifetime reserve day.
For outpatient care, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after your Part B deductible is met. There is no limit to the number of outpatient visits you can get covered.
Compare Medicare plans to review premiums, deductibles and out-of-pocket costs for physical therapy services
Does Medicare cover physical therapy home care?
Yes. Home health care can provide Medicare‑covered physical therapy services in your home — such as part‑time skilled nursing care — to support recovery from illness, injury or major procedures that impact your mobility, such as hip replacement surgery.
Learn more about Medicare coverage and physical therapy home care
How many physical therapy sessions does Medicare cover?
There is no limit to the number of outpatient sessions Part B can cover. As long as they are medically necessary, your Medicare PT coverage continues. Inpatient sessions are more limited under Part A coverage. Your doctor may recommend services Medicare doesn’t cover, so be sure to check your benefit details.
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