We live in a time where many things are available instantly at our fingertips through our smartphones and computers. Doctor appointments can be conducted online. Eye exams can be performed using a cell phone. A personal stylist can revamp your wardrobe without you having to leave your bedroom. You can order food from just about any restaurant and have it delivered to you at home or work. So, it makes sense that physical therapy should somehow be readily available without a referral from another doctor.
Fortunately, many advocates and lobbyists also strongly believe individuals should have access to physical therapy with or without a referral from a treating medical physician. This produced direct access to physical therapy. In an insightful survey, the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) uncovered that nearly 70% of people still think a referral is necessary to receive physical therapy. However, since 2015, the United States, Virgin Islands, and District of Columbia began allowing patients to see a physical therapist without requiring a prescription from a medical professional.[1] We are excited to offer these services to many clients in Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska!
How did direct access begin? On August 16, 2018, the Illinois Physical Therapy Act also permitted Illinois residents to see a physical therapist without a referral. Illinois was the 27th state to adopt the practice, joining other states already allowing unrestricted access.
Direct access to physical therapy has paved the way for receiving immediate assistance, helping patients take steps towards returning to normal activity, slowing down progressive injuries, encouraging chronic pain recovery, and providing higher levels of health care accessibility.
While the fundamental necessity to receive a referral has diminished, states and insurance providers enforce unique provisions. In the content below, we discuss how to determine if you qualify for physical therapy, without a referral, based on the insurance provider and state.
[1] https://www.apta.org/advocacy/issues/direct-access-advocacy
What is “Direct Access Physical Therapy?”
“Direct access physical therapy” describes physical therapy treatment without the referral of a medical provider. Direct access to physical therapy saves patients time, money, and ultimately, reduces overall recovery time. With the goal of beginning treatment sooner, early intervention may help patients avoid incurring more serious injuries. Furthermore, direct access to physical therapy provides easy access to pain alleviation. Physical therapy is a healthy, natural route for pain relief, an alternative to illegal medication.
Direct access physical therapy is growing in popularity, but even within this, there is still variation. This means that even though all 50 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands each enjoy some form of direct access to physical therapist treatment, these conditions and varying limitations are common among each jurisdiction.
Why does this information about Direct Access Physical Therapy matter?
First and foremost, this direct access will save you time and money, and that will lead you to a quicker recovery. We have spent a great deal of time talking about the specifics regarding direct access physical therapy. Why does this topic require so much attention? As we alluded to before, we are living in a day and time when nearly everything is available to us with the click of a button. Before direct access physical therapy, physical therapy access restrictions caused a myriad of unnecessary delays. This is not acceptable for clients and patients who need and would benefit from treatment by a physical therapist sooner rather than later. These delays in patient care can result in prolonged treatment, higher costs, decreased functionality, and general frustration for people who really need care. Direct access physical therapy has helped to minimize these concerns by eliminating barriers between patients and the physical therapists who can offer help.
Is it Safe to See a Physical Therapist Without a Referral?
One leading concern amongst those who are seeking physical therapy but have not discussed the possible treatments with their primary care doctor is an inquiry regarding the safety of treatments without a referral. In short, is it safe to visit a physical therapist without a referral?
Physical therapists undergo comprehensive and rigorous education requirements before practicing. For example, physical therapists must complete a graduate degree from an accredited academic program (typically a doctoral program), pass the National Physical Therapy Examination, and receive licensure in their state of practice. Certain jurisdictions require supplementary requirements.
Therefore, physical therapy professionals are trained to thoroughly examine and engage in therapeutic intervention for individuals with a variety of limitations. In most cases, treatment without a referral is safe and beneficial.
Begin Your Recovery with Rock Valley Physical Therapy
At Rock Valley Physical Therapy, we are committed to helping you get better. We take great pride in serving Midwestern communities. One thing we can guarantee is that we are a patient-centered, therapist-led organization, and we are dedicated to taking care of you or your loved one during the current challenges you are facing.
We know physical therapy can be daunting. You may have a lot of questions about your condition, your state, your insurance, or your treatment. We are here to help!
We are proud of our skilled, passionate, and empathetic team, and we are confident that you will receive the best care for your physical therapy needs. If you are ready to begin, contact us today! To get in touch with our team and begin your healing, request an appointment via our online form today and our exceptional Rock Valley crew will be in contact with you shortly.
Are you ready to save time, money and recover faster? We look forward to helping you heal and return to daily living.