What does direct access mean in physical therapy practice?

• A. Patient can see a PT without physician referral
• B. Patient must obtain a physician referral before seeing a PT
• C. PTs can only see patients referred by a physician
• D. Direct access allows PTs to order surgical procedures

Answer: (A)

Direct access means you can start physical therapy services directly, without needing a physician referral first. This allows an initial evaluation and treatment plan to be developed by the PT based on their assessment. It doesn’t give the PT permission to order surgery or do anything beyond their scope; if imaging, medications, or medical clearance are needed, the PT will refer you to the appropriate clinician. The exact rules can vary by state and insurer, but the key idea is access to PT care without a pre-referral step.