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This summary sets forth various workers' compensation regulations regarding outpatient physical therapy services. The Workers' Compensation State Regulations resource may serve as a tool to assist in locating regulations. Please send database comments and corrections to advocacy@apta.org.

To the extent an individual or entity wishes to rely upon information contained in this resource, such reliance should be based upon an independent legal review and analysis of applicable law. This resource was prepared for informational purposes only and is not offered or intended, nor should it be relied upon, for legal advice for any specific set of circumstances. Additional legal doctrines, federal and state statutes, and case law not set forth herein may apply to your situation and such laws, rules and regulations can vary from state to state. You should consult with your own attorney to obtain specific legal advice on your particular facts and circumstances and applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

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Therapy Regulations

  • What is the conversion factor for outpatient therapy services?
  • What is the basis of the fee schedule for outpatient therapy services?
  • Are there limits on the number of physical therapy visits allowed?
  • Are there limits on payment per visit for outpatient therapy services?
  • Do regulations require use of treatment guidelines?
  • Is a referral required in order to see a physical therapist?
  • Can outpatient fees be negotiated above or below the fee schedule? 1
  • Can the injured worker be charged for any claim-related services?
    • Response: In rare cases, such as if employee is classified as part of an agricultural operation or as an indepedent contractor.
    • Detail: The Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Act (Act) applies to the State of Nebraska, to every governmental agency created by it, and toevery employer in the state employing one or more employees in the regular trade, business, profession, or vocation of the employer. Thus, virtually all employees are covered by the Act, including employees of private industry, state and local government, part-time employees, minors, and employees of charitable organizations. However, employers are not required to provide coverage for independent contractors. At times, there is disagreement on whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. While the Act does not define “independent contractor,” case law provides several factors to consider when determining whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. This decision is made on a cases-by-case basis, and no single factor is determinitive.
    • Citation: Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court - Agricultural Operations
  • Are there workers' compensation regulations about who can provide services under the direction and supervision of a physical therapist?
  • Are there provider network and/or managed care regulations in place?
  • Are there regulations that address which fee schedule applies if an injured worker from this state seeks treatment in another state?
  • Are there regulations regarding Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)?
    • Response: No

1 While some states use a mandatory fee schedule, many states have provisions for fees to be negotiated above or below the published fee schedule. "Yes + / - " indicates that fees can be negotiated above or below the fee schedule. "Yes -" indicates that fees can only be negotiated below the fee schedule.

The following payer types conduct business in this state.

  • Private Carriers: Yes
  • Self-insured Employers or Groups: Yes
  • Competitive State Fund: No
  • Exclusive State Fund: No
  • State Comp Fund (last resort): No

The Workers' Compensation resources have been updated as of 2026.

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