Can I see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral?
Yes, patients can see a physical therapist without obtaining a doctor’s referral first. The practice is known as “direct access,” and it’s been approved throughout the United States. In 2019, the Texas Legislature passed a law, HB 29 by Rep. Ina Minjarez (D-San Antonio), approving direct access in Texas.
What are the benefits of direct access?
Direct access saves time. Patients may have to wait several days or weeks for a doctor’s appointment, especially when it’s for a non-urgent situation. With direct access, they can start the healing process immediately. In addition, many patients seek help only after their pain becomes unbearable, and a common practice is for doctors to prescribe pain relievers. While this helps alleviate pain, it doesn’t address the underlying cause. Physical therapists go beyond “masking” pain by providing plans of care that focus on healing and prevention.
Direct access can also save money. People struggling with pain often have to take time off work, so having direct access to physical therapy can save money by reducing lost wages. Plus, it eliminates the cost of a doctor’s visit and expensive pain medications.
Are there any restrictions to direct access in Texas?
Yes, there are a few restrictions. Physical therapists are eligible for direct access only if they have at least one year of experience and a doctorate degree in physical therapy (DPT). There are also limitations when it comes to how long they can see a patient. In Texas, DPTs can provide up to two weeks of treatment or three weeks if the therapist has completed a fellowship or residency. Patients who require additional therapy can get a doctor’s referral at that time, but many plans of care can be completed within the two or three-week period.
Let us help you.
At FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Center in Corpus Christi, our mission is to empower individuals to take control of their recovery and pain management. We use evidence-based research to develop our plans of care and are always working to improve our knowledge of the latest innovations in PT. Direct access lets us take full advantage of our expertise, but more importantly, it puts access to treatment in the hands of our patients, giving them a stronger voice when it comes to their approach to health and wellness.
Contact FYZICAL Corpus Christi South Side to make an appointment with our therapist today!
Sources:
- American Physical Therapy Association. Direct Access Advocacy. Retrieved from https://www.apta.org/advocacy/issues/direct-access-advocacy
- Texas Physical Therapy Association. Texans no longer need a referral to be treated by a physical therapist. Retrieved from https://tpta.memberclicks.net/assets/DA%20Press%20Release.pdf