Direct Access for Physical Therapists.pptVIP

Direct Access for Physical Therapists Why Now? What is “Direct Access”? Direct access is the legal right of the public to seek and receive an examination, evaluation, and interventions by a physical therapist without the referral of a physician. (APTA Board of Directors, 2000.) Reasons for DA Current Trend in Healthcare Reform - Increase Access/Reduce Costs Solution: Direct access to services provided by healthcare professionals Direct Access allows consumers greater choice in seeking treatments for impairments, disabilities and movement disorders. Reasons for DA Direct Access to Physical Therapy is all about……………………….. Greater Consumer Access to Healthcare! Missouri is one of the Few 43 States Have Direct Access by Omission or Provision Oldest: Nebraska 1957, California 1968, Maryland 1979, Arizona 1983 6 States Evaluation Only (Including MO) 2 States No DA – Alabama and Indiana Many states working to eliminate provisions APTA Vision Statement By 2020, physical therapy will be provided by physical therapists who are doctors of physical therapy, recognized by consumers and other health care professionals as practitioners of choice to whom consumers have direct access for the diagnosis of, interventions for, and prevention of impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities related to movement, function, and health. Doctors of Physical Therapy As of January 2002, no programs accredited at the Bachelor’s level. 164 accredited DPT degree programs 45 accredited MPT degree programs Why Direct Access? Benefits of Direct Accessfor the Patient Choice of provider Less visits Convenience/flexibility Earlier intervention Decreased out-of-pocket expense (copays, pharmacy) Consumer Access Millions spent out-of-pocket for injury and pain management in health clubs and spas Consumers should have equal access to licensed PTs as they do unlicensed and unregulated providers. Benefits of Direct Accessfor the Physical Therapist Autonomy as a provider Increased cre