More than 530 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants, and physical therapy students from Indiana gathered at the statehouse on January 30 to show their support for HB 1034, which would provide direct access to physical therapists. Over 50 legislators joined the members of the physical therapy profession for lunch and to discuss the bill. 

State Sen Pat Miller and state Reps Dave Frizzell and Matt Ubelhor spoke to the crowd and confirmed their commitment to passing direct access legislation. Indiana is 1 of only 3 states with no form of direct access to physical therapy treatment, and the only state without direct access to a physical therapy evaluation. Many Indiana Chapter members held signs with the messages: "49 states allow you to see your PT directly … not Indiana" and "Hoosiers deserve direct access to physical therapists."

The House Public Health Committee hearing for HB 1034 will be held February 6. The chapter is coordinating a team of chapter members to speak in support of the bill. If it is approved by the committee, the bill would then go to the full House of Representatives for consideration.

Photos of the January 30 event are available here.