Direct Access Physical Therapy in Affton, Missouri

Direct access physical therapy in Affton, MO. On 28th of April, 2023, Governor Parsons signed SB 51 into law, paving the way for residents of Affton and all of Missouri to access physical therapy without a referral from a physician. The new law allows Affton, MO patients requiring physical therapy to receive the treatment they’re looking for without needing to pay or wait for doctor’s appointments.

Even though Axes boasts a respected network of physician partners in Affton, MO that we consistently work with, we also acknowledge that direct access physical therapy reduces many barriers for Affton, MO residents. Our occupational and physical therapists in Affton, MO have a primary objective: to get you back to the activities you love effectively and safely. We do that by applying our knowledge of mobility and the musculoskeletal system to diagnose conditions limiting how you can move and function, and designing treatment plans, based on science, personalized for your unique situation. If you’d like to learn more about direct access physical therapy in Affton, MO, or want to start on the road to recovery today, contact us online or phone the Axes location nearest you.

What Is Direct Access Physical Therapy in Missouri?

Physical therapy has historically been a cornerstone in assisting individuals overcome injuries, handle pain, and restore their everyday functions. Traditionally in Missouri, the route to physical therapy required several steps, beginning with a visit to a physician. After a detailed evaluation of the patient’s condition, the physician would then refer them to a physical therapist, ensuring they get the appropriate care adapted to their specific needs.

The main reason for needing a physician referral in the past was to ensure that patients got an initial diagnosis from a medical doctor, confirming that physical therapy would be an effective and safe aspect of their treatment plan. However, in some cases, this meant that Affton, MO and Missouri residents that definitely needed physical therapy had unnecessary delays in their care. Previous law also didn’t take into account the capabilities that licensed physical therapists in Affton, MO offer in terms of diagnosing musculoskeletal issues.

Enter Direct Access Physical Therapy With Missouri Senate Bill 51

The Missouri chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association had been pushing hard to pass direct access physical therapy in the state for 10 years. Missouri Senate Bill 51 aims to eliminate certain barriers to physical therapy in Affton, MO. The act states:

This act modifies provisions relating to the practice of physical therapy. Under this act, physical therapists with a doctorate of physical therapy or 5 years of clinical experience may evaluate and initiate treatment on a patient without a prescription or referral from an approved health care provider. Physical therapists may provide certain educational information, fitness or wellness programs, screenings, and consultations without a prescription or referral regardless of whether a patient is symptomatic.

Other provisions of SB 51 include:

• It repeals previous provisions that limited the ability of physical therapists to examine and treat specific conditions or injuries without a prescription or referral.
• Physical therapists are obliged to refer patients to an approved health care provider if
  • The patient’s condition is outside the scope of physical therapy practice;
  • The patient doesn’t show noticeable or functional improvement within ten visits or 30 days (whichever is sooner).
• After ten visits or 30 days (whichever is sooner), a physical therapist:
  • Must confer with an approved health care provider before continuing therapy if the patient’s condition has improved and further therapy is deemed necessary;
  • Must provide specific information to the health care provider during this consultation;
  • Shall continue with continued therapy depending on input from the provider;
  • Is required to inform the provider of ongoing therapy every 10 visits or 30 days unless the medical doctor says otherwise.
• The Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts can:
  • Submit complaints against a physical therapist for evaluating or treating a patient not in line with the provisions of the act and current laws related to the scope of practice for physical therapists.
  • This takes the place of the previous provision where the Board could raise concerns about a therapist practicing without a prescription and direction from specific healthcare providers.

Licensed physical therapists in Affton, MO, like those at Axes, are experts in the musculoskeletal system. Direct access physical therapy enables us to apply our expertise to best serve our Affton, MO communities, all the while continuing our partnership with trusted physicians when necessary.

Benefits of Direct Access Physical Therapy in Affton, MO

The primary aim of direct access physical therapy is to make it more accessible to people suffering from certain conditions in Affton, MO and throughout Missouri. In doing so, it offers the following benefits:

• Prompt intervention — Direct access permits patients to obtain care without delay. Immediate treatment can bring about quicker recovery and can stop minor issues from turning into significant problems.
• Diminished costs — By eliminating the need for a physician referral, patients can possibly save on consultation fees, imaging tests, and other associated expenses. Additionally, early physical therapy intervention may lower the need for more expensive treatments or surgeries down the line.
• Streamlined care — Direct access cuts down the number of steps in the care-seeking process. Patients no longer have to set up and attend a separate doctor’s appointment ahead of starting therapy.
• Empowerment and convenience — Patients have the autonomy to select their physical therapist and start treatment on their terms, ending in a more patient-centered treatment approach.
• Diminished medication use — Physical therapy can provide pain relief and functional improvement without relying on medications, notably opioids or other painkillers. Direct access can therefore help in lowering reliance on medication by providing an alternative pain management solution.
• Improved outcomes — Some studies have shown that patients who access physical therapy directly have similar or even more favorable outcomes versus those who go through the conventional referral pathway.
• Improved patient satisfaction — Direct access physical therapy can boost patient satisfaction by means of lowered costs and improved patient outcomes.
• Lowered burden on primary care — Direct access can lighten a few of the loads on primary care providers, permitting them to pay attention to patients who need their care.

What Direct Access Physical Therapy in Affton, MO Does NOT Mean

While direct access physical therapy in Affton, MO gives a new tier of convenience for particular patients, there might be a few misconceptions about in what situations it’s appropriate and which individuals it’s fitting for. It’s crucial to clarify what direct access physical therapy does not indicate:

• Not a substitute for physicians — Direct access doesn’t indicate that physical therapists are replacing the necessity for medical doctors or their expertise. Physicians and physical therapists have separate knowledge and skill sets. Even though physical therapists can assess and treat many musculoskeletal problems, physicians have a essential function in identifying and treating a vast range of medical conditions, prescribing medications, and offering specialized medical interventions.
• Not comprehensive diagnosing — While physical therapists are educated to assess and diagnose issues linked to movement, posture, and musculoskeletal health, they cannot diagnose all health conditions. As an illustration, if a patient presents with symptoms that might be indicative of a more systemic issue or a condition not covered by a physical therapist’s domain, a physician referral is both necessary and in the best interest of the patient.
• Still a collaborative approach — Direct access doesn’t diminish the importance of cooperation among healthcare professionals. Physical therapists often work closely with physicians, sharing insights, talking about patient progress, and determining the best treatment plan. This cooperative approach guarantees comprehensive care, and will continue to be used whenever necessary.
• Not a blanket solution — Each patient is an individual, and direct access might not be fitting for everyone. Specific patients, notably those with complex medical backgrounds or undiagnosed symptoms, can profit from a physician’s evaluation ahead of starting physical therapy.
• Not neglecting} red flags — If a physical therapist identifies “red flags” or symptoms suggesting a more serious where direct access physical therapy in Affton, MO may be your first choice:
  • Minor injuries — If you’ve experienced a recent minor injury like a sprain, muscle strain, sports injury, or a simple fall, and you’re certain about what it is and a physical therapist can properly diagnose it, direct access can provide immediate assessment and intervention without the hassle of seeking a referral.
  • Chronic pain treatment — For those dealing with persistent pain, especially related to musculoskeletal issues like low back pain, osteoarthritis, or repetitive stress injuries, starting with a physical therapist can offer relief and pain management strategies.
  • Injury prevention — If you’re seeking to prevent potential injuries, whether play sports or have a physically demanding job, direct access physical therapy allows you to consult with a physical therapist for guidance and exercise regimens.
  • Recurring issues — For conditions or issues you’ve dealt with before, such as recurrent lower back pain, direct access physical therapy can help you address the problem without navigating the process of obtaining a referral again.
  • Health and fitness consultation — If you’re trying to optimize your workouts, seeking advice on safe exercises, wanting to ensure you’re using the correct techniques, or even just starting a beginner running program, a physical therapist can offer valuable insights.

  When NOT to Use Direct Access Physical Therapy

  Despite the benefits of direct access physical therapy, there are still many circumstances where a collaborative approach between you, your physical therapist, and your Affton, MO physician is most appropriate:

  • Severe or acute injuries — In cases of major trauma, suspected fractures, dislocations, or other acute conditions, immediate medical attention is vital. These situations typically require an emergency room visit or the work of a specialist.
  • Complicated medical histories — For individuals with complex medical backgrounds or multiple health conditions, a physician’s evaluation ensures that all aspects of their health are considered before starting physical therapy.
  • Red flags — If you exhibit “red flag” symptoms, which might indicate a more serious underlying condition (e.g., unexplained weight loss, night sweats, persistent fever), it’s essential to consult a physician before seeking physical therapy.
  • Systemic or non-musculoskeletal symptoms — If your symptoms seem to be related to systemic issues, like digestive problems or respiratory issues, it’s critical to first consult with a physician to rule out conditions that fall outside the scope of a physical therapist’s expertise.
  • Pre/Post-surgical rehabilitation — Physical therapy is often used to help patients prepare their bodies for surgery and to recover strength and mobility after surgery. Pre- and post-surgery rehab requires an active collaboration between a physician and your Affton, MO physical therapy team.

  While Axes’ Affton, MO physical therapists can assist in the treatment of any conditions affecting your mobility and movement health, the above situations are examples of when a collaborative approach with our team and a physician in Affton, MO is both needed and leads to better patient outcomes.

  When in doubt, you can always venture to any Axes’ Physical Therapy location near you for a free injury screening, and our licensed physical therapists will be able to tell you if we can begin treatment or if we need to refer you to a physician.

  How to Get Started With Direct Access Physical Therapy in Affton, MO

  If you’re in search of direct access physical therapy in Affton, MO, Axes offers a variety of services that can help you regain strength and mobility. Here’s how you can get started with Axes today:

  • Verify your insurance — While Missouri law now allows direct access physical therapy, certain insurance carriers in Affton, MO still require a physician referral for coverage, so inquire with your insurance about their policies. Don’t have insurance? Direct access physical therapy isn’t covered? Axes offers reasonable cash-based options that will provide you access to the recovery options you need to get back on track without hurting your wallet.
  • Schedule an appointment — You can head to any of our locations for a free injury screening and initial assessment. This will help your physical therapist understand your needs and goals, and determine what the best path forward for your treatment is.
  • Prepare for your first visit — Note any issues or concerns you have so you won’t forget to mention them in your initial evaluation with your Affton, MO physical therapist. Wear comfortable clothing as you may do a bit of light stretching or moderate exercise.
  • Follow your treatment plan and communicate — All of our treatment plans are entirely personalized based on your individual situation, and are based on proven, evidence-backed treatment methods. Your Axes physical therapist in Affton, MO will create a team with you (and, if needed, your doctor) with the common goal of getting you back to the activities you love.

  Other services we offer in Affton, MO include:

  • Herniated Disc Treatment

  

  Get in Touch With Axes for Your Direct Access Physical Therapy in Affton, MO Today

  Whether you’re itching to get back on the court, want to start a new workout routine, or just want to be able to go about your daily life without pain, don’t let anything stand in the way of getting back to the activities you enjoy most. With our blend of expertise, compassion, and state-of-the-art facilities, your journey to a better, more capable you is in the trustworthy hands of our licensed Affton, MO physical therapists. Don’t let pain or mobility issues hold you back any longer. Call the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your direct access physical therapy today.