Michigan Introduces Direct Access Legislation; Chapter Committed to Bill's Passage
Last week the Michigan Chapter hosted a legislative breakfast in the state capital of Lansing, Michigan, following the recent introduction of HB 4603, legislation that would provide patients and consumers direct access to physical therapy services. HB 4603 was introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives May 3 and referred to the House Health Policy Committee.
"We have prepared our members with the facts," said Michigan Chapter Legislative Director Mike Shoemaker, PT, DPT, GCS. "The chapter's talking points helped our members communicate with their legislators with confidence. Our commitment to finally passing direct consumer access legislation has never been higher."
The breakfast drew record attendance. Attendees heard from Rep Margaret O' Brien (R-District 61, Portage), sponsor of HB 4603. O'Brien has personally benefitted from physical therapy services. She eagerly shares her personal story to educate other legislators and ask for their support of HB 4603.
"We appreciate all the work from the Michigan Chapter members, the continued support from APTA, and are delighted that chapter members are ready for the ongoing work that passing legislation always requires," said Michigan Chapter President Jake Jakubiak Kovacek, PT.
Michigan is 1 of 4 states that do not yet allow citizens to seek physical therapy treatment without a physician referral or prescription.
