You do not Need A Referral For Physical Therapy! Find Out More About Direct Access!
Do you think you will need a doctor’s referral to see a physical therapist? This is not true! Direct Access legislation in every state allows physical therapists to evaluate and treat patients without the need for a doctor’s referral. By removing barriers, healthcare becomes more effective and efficient, allowing you to choose physical therapy first!
Consider this scenario for a moment: you wake up with an achy back that is getting worse rather than better. When you call the doctor, you learn that you cannot be seen for another three days. That is three more days of suffering ahead of you!
However, you can see a physical therapist right now and get started immediately on your recovery with Direct Access. The sooner you see a physical therapist, the sooner you will start feeling better!
Plus, it saves you money and allows you to get back to your regular lifestyle more quickly. Direct Access is all about making a personal choice without regulations. It puts you in the driver’s seat of your own healthcare. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of Direct Access, and be sure to contact Sisu Therapies in Windsor, CO today if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment to be seen by a physical therapist!
Debunking Some Of The Myths About Direct Access
Many people believe that Direct Access only applies to outpatient physical therapy, but it also covers treatment in pediatric centers, private home care, school systems, hospitals, and on the sports field. Direct Access is far more common than most people think.
Another misconception is that Direct Access is not available in all states. Direct Access is, in fact, available in some form in all 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia. Direct Access may have some limitations, but the groundwork has been laid and the rules will shift in the future.
Insurance Plans That Cover Direct Access
Although insurance is always changing, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and many private health insurance companies are covered under Direct Access. As long as the physical therapist establishes a plan of care for the patient, care is covered under Medicare. Just keep in mind that for continued treatment, the physical therapist must have the plan of care approved and signed off by a licensed doctor.
Studies About Direct Access In Physical Therapy Have Shown That:
- Patients reported a higher level of satisfaction when they received physical therapy through Direct Access versus physician referral.
- Patients receiving physical therapy through direct access versus referral had better outcomes at discharge.
All around, Direct Access is changing the landscape of 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, call our clinic in Windsor, CO today to schedule an appointment with a physical therapist.
