Simply stated, physical therapy direct access allows patients to see a physical therapist first, without referral or approval from another healthcare provider.
By eliminating the requirement for a patient to be evaluated by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional first, a major barrier to care is eliminated as well. In some cases, patients already have an existing relationship with a physical therapist and would like to do directly to that physical therapist for an injury or related condition.
In other cases, a physical therapist is qualified to evaluate and diagnose a new patient's condition. Therapists are trained in differential diagnosis and screening for red flags.
Many primary care physicians and specialists are so overwhelmed by patient volumes, that a patient might wait weeks or even months for an appointment.
Physical therapists are often able to schedule new patient evaluations sooner than many physicians, but without direct access a quicker evaluation would not be available.
Naturally, if a patient is required to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician or another healthcare provider before scheduling a physical therapy evaluation and treatment that adds unnecessary time and cost to the patient or third-party payer.
Often, going directly to a physical therapist reduces the cost of additional appointments.
 | Hi, my name is Anthony Maritato, PT and I wrote this article. I have been a physical therapist since 2006 and a content producer since before I can remember. I am passionate about the profession of physical therapy and this website is my chance to contribute in some small way to helping amazing physical therapists gain exposure and influence in the healthcare community. If you are a therapist like me please consider creating your own, personal profile so that more prospective patients have a chance to learn more about you and how you can help. |
