Tired of Waiting On Referrals To See A Physical Therapist?
Every state has passed legislation called direct access that allows physical therapists to assess and treat patients without the need for a physician’s referral.
Direct Access makes health care more efficient and effective, allowing you to see our physical therapists as soon as possible! The sooner you get in the faster you can start feeling better.
Direct Access also helps you save time and get you back to the activities you enjoy faster. Direct Access is all about having the freedom to make your own decisions without being bound by rules. It allows you to be in charge of your medical treatment.
Direct access myths
Myth: I always need a provider referral to see a physical therapist.
Fact: Under many conditions, you can go directly to a physical therapist for treatment.
Direct Access is much more common than the general public realizes.
According to Wi law, the public can access physical therapy directly in most instances. An individual who has been diagnosed by a physician with a neurological or medical condition who seeks physical therapy services to treat the condition, by law may directly access the physical therapist of their chosing. Additionally, an individual who has experienced a musculoskeletal injury (with or without a diagnosis by a physician) may access a physical therapist directly for care of the injury or condition. In the event that the physical therapist suspects that an acute bone fracture or tendon rupture has occurred, the physical therapist must refer the patient to another appropriate health care provider (such as an orthopedic physician) before initiating physical therapy treatment. Finally, the public may consult a physical therapist directly to receive guidance in physical conditioning, injury prevention techniques, and a variety of other services.
Advantages to Direct Access
There are numerous advantages to having direct access to physical therapy. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Patients reported a higher level of satisfaction when they received physical therapy through Direct Access versus physician referral (Ojha, 2014).
- Patients receiving physical therapy through direct access versus referral had better outcomes at discharge (Ojha, 2014).
Request an appointment at New You Health and Wellness today
Direct Access is changing access to healthcare. If you or someone you love would like to learn more about Direct Access to physical therapy or how physical therapy can combat chronic pain of any sort, schedule an appointment with a Wauwatosa, WI physical therapist.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!