Direct Access refers to the ability of a patient/client to seek care from a physical therapist without a physician referral. The laws vary from state to state, and in Pennsylvania those therapists with a Direct Access License are able to treat patients for 30 days without a physician referral. Research is beginning to demonstrate what many have known for some time - that quick access to care helps speed recovery, AND lower costs. This article below discusses direct access.........
Two years ago, physical therapist Chris Cooper treated a somewhat unusual patient. The 51-year-old man had been playing basketball and turned his ankle. Cooper had certainly seen sprained ankles before. But what made this case unique was that the patient had not been referred by a doctor. He made the appointment for physical therapy on his own.
Facing a high deductible, the patient wanted to avoid the cost of a physician visit, knowing full well the doctor would simply send him for physical therapy just like the last time he incurred a similar injury.
At the initial visit with Therapeutic Associates in Bend, Cooper ruled out more serious problems such as a broken ankle that would have required X-rays and a physician's care.
READ MORE HERE...........
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