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Direct access to PT services is a reality across America, but not without challenges.
Physical therapists in every state, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands may evaluate and treat patients without a referral. Successful implementation of direct access requires consideration of state practice acts, payer regulations, organizational requirements, and consumer awareness.
Explore Direct Access Requirements by State
Direct access provisions vary by jurisdiction. Some states place conditions or limitations on direct access, while others allow unrestricted access.
- APTA Resource: Levels of Patient Access to Physical Therapist Services in the U.S.
- The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy Jurisdiction Licensure Reference Guide
How to Get Involved in Direct Access Advocacy
- Check out how APTA is advocating to increase patient access to physical therapist services.
- Read the "State of Direct Access to Physical Therapist Services," APTA's strategic report providing evidence and data to advance direct access initiatives.
- Sign up for the APTA Advocacy Network to receive alerts and updates on key legislative and regulatory actions affecting the physical therapy profession.
Recommended Content
Article
Medicare beneficiaries can go directly to physical therapists without a referral or visit to a physician.
Additional Direct Access in Practice Content
Report (Open Access)
APTA’s "State of Direct Access to Physical Therapist Services" report is a strategic resource designed to equip health care leaders with the scientific evidence they need to address opposition to direct access and drive meaningful change.
Podcast
Topics covered include direct access, the physical therapy compact, telehealth, and more.
Podcast
As more PTs transition into direct access roles, it seems prudent to consider how additional resources common to other first-contact providers might impact patient care.
Podcast
Julie Sexton, PT, and Michelle Ramirez, PT, DPT, discuss their health system’s process for translating evidence into practice and expanding care through direct access.
Podcast
Kenneth Harwood, PT, PhD, discusses research that studies whether unrestricted direct access to physical therapist services lowers utilization and health care costs for people with low back pain.