NC S656

Adds physical therapists to the list of healthcare providers that patients have the right to choose under their health benefit plans in North Carolina.

Requires health benefit plans, subscriber contracts, and insurance policies to cover services from licensed physical therapists when those services fall within their scope of practice, regardless of plan restrictions.

Allows patients to select physical therapists subject to the same network requirements, utilization review, referral, and prior approval requirements that apply to other providers under their plan.

Defines "duly licensed physical therapist" as a person licensed by the North Carolina Board of Physical Therapy Examiners pursuant to Article 18B of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes.

Applies the same protections to the State Health Plan for physical therapist provider choice.

Effective date: October 1, 2012.