A recent study published in the journal of Health Services Research found that patients, who visited a physical therapist directly, without first seeing a physician, had fewer visits and lower overall costs than those referred by a physician for physical therapy. These costs were to the global health care system. Also, after 60 days, there was no difference in health care use in persons who accessed physical therapy services indirectly or directly. Study’s like this, support the notion that physical therapy services when accessed directly can be safe and effective. Read our other blog, to learn more about Direct Access and how it can work for you!
Here are some internet links that support direct access to physical therapy services:
http://www.apta.org/Media/Releases/Consumer/2011/10/13/
http://www.wtaecom/r/18891143/detail.html
http://www.bendbulletin.com/article/20111103/NEWS0107/311039998/
