Direct Access allows residents in the state of Texas to see a physical therapist without a referral. This legislation went into effect on September 1, 2019. Better late than never, but Texas was the 49th state to provide this health and cost benefit to its residents. So, in short, if you need physical therapy for treatment, you don’t have to see your doctor first. You can call us here at Physical Therapy Now to schedule your appointment. However, there are some things to keep in mind.
What Do I Need to Know About Direct Access?
There are some things to consider before you set up your first appointment. According to the Texas Physical Therapy Association:
- Up to 10 business days for PTs with a doctoral degree, or PTs who have 30 hours of CCUs in Differential Diagnosis.
- Up to 15 business days for PTs with a doctoral degree who have completed a residency, fellowship training or board certification as recognized by the Texas Board of Physical Therapy Examiners
- Must have at least one year of experience
- Must have liability insurance
- Will still need a referral if treatment is needed beyond the allowed days
A disclosure form must be given to patients who are treated by a physical therapist without a referral. The form shall include language in which the patient acknowledges that physical therapy is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis by a physician, nor is it based on radiological imaging, that a physical therapist cannot diagnose illness or disease, and that such services might not be covered by a patient’s health plan or insurer.
It has been nearly 5 years since Direct Access became available to Texans, and there is no shortage of residents using it. While we do still work closely with doctors, many of our current patients here at Physical Therapy NOW use Direct Access to contact us directly for their PT needs.
According to a press release at the time when Direct Access became available, Dana Tew, Vice President of TPTA spoke highly of the new opportunity. “This is great news for patients across the state who can now seek treatment from the most appropriate healthcare provider. Patients can now come directly to us and don’t have to wait for an appointment and pay for an office visit with their primary care physician or orthopedist just to be told they need physical therapy.”
Do you need Physical Therapy In or Around Irving, Texas?
If you or a loved one needs Physical Therapy in Irving, Texas, call your team here at Physical Therapy NOW in Irving. Our team loves supporting patients who use Direct Access because saves patients both time and money. Call us today to make your first appointment at (214) 225-0291.
