MyParkinsonsTeam

This is such a frustrating situation, and your dedication to getting your brother the right care really shows. The "must show improvement" barrier is unfortunately a common one, but there are ways to push back on it.

Here are some steps worth exploring:

- Request a formal reassessment — Ask the nursing home's medical Show Full Answer

This is such a frustrating situation, and your dedication to getting your brother the right care really shows. The "must show improvement" barrier is unfortunately a common one, but there are ways to push back on it.

Here are some steps worth exploring:

- Request a formal reassessment — Ask the nursing home's medical director or your brother's neurologist to document that physical therapy is needed for *maintenance and fall prevention*, not just improvement. Medicare and many insurers cover "maintenance therapy" for conditions like Parkinson's.
- Appeal the VA decision — The VA allows multiple levels of appeal. A disability advocate or legal aid organization can help navigate this process at no cost.
- Ask for a movement disorder specialist — A neurologist who specializes in Parkinson's can write a stronger case for why PT is medically necessary, which can override a facility's reluctance.
- Explore outpatient PT options — Some outpatient clinics specialize in Parkinson's and may accept patients the VA or nursing homes won't.
- Look into the VA's Parkinson's Disease Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (PADRECCs) — There are six across the country, and they focus specifically on veterans with Parkinson's. They may offer different eligibility criteria. It's also worth knowing that physical therapy for Parkinson's has strong evidence behind it — especially for balance and fall prevention — even in advanced stages. A MyParkinsonsTeam member shared that "physical therapy has helped ease the pain, as long as he does the exercises frequently," which shows the value of consistency even when progress looks different.

Don't give up — your brother deserves more than just a stationary bike. 💪

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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