CA AB574

Prohibits health care service plans and health insurers from requiring prior authorization for the initial 12 physical therapy treatment visits for a new condition, effective for policies issued, amended, or renewed on or after January 1, 2027

Allows prior authorization for physical therapy for recurring conditions if the patient seeks care within 180 days of their last physical therapy intervention for that same condition

Requires physical therapy providers to verify patient coverage before treatment and disclose cost-sharing information, including maximum out-of-pocket expenses if the insurer denies coverage

Mandates providers obtain separate written consent with a cost estimate for services that may not be covered, with documents provided in Medi-Cal threshold languages when applicable

Exempts Medi-Cal managed care plan contracts from these requirements