Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, MO | Occupational and Physical Therapists

Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, Missouri

Direct access physical therapy in Liguori, MO. On April 28, 2023, Governor Parsons signed SB 51 into law, paving the way for people in Liguori and all of Missouri to access physical therapy without a referral from a medical doctor. The new law allows Liguori, MO patients who need physical therapy to get the treatment they’re seeking without having to pay or wait for doctor’s appointments.

Even though Axes boasts a respected network of medical doctor partners in Liguori, MO we consistently work with, we also acknowledge that direct access physical therapy reduces many barriers for Liguori, MO residents. Our occupational and physical therapists in Liguori, MO have a primary objective: to get you back to the activities you love safely and effectively. We achieve that by leveraging our knowledge of movement health and the musculoskeletal system to diagnose conditions hindering your function and mobility, and designing treatment plans, based on science, tailored to your unique situation. If you’d like to learn more about direct access physical therapy in Liguori, 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 long been a fundamental element in assisting individuals overcome injuries, deal with pain, and regain their regular functions. Traditionally in Missouri, the journey to physical therapy required several steps, starting with a visit to a physician. Following a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s condition, the physician would then refer them to a physical therapist, making sure they get the appropriate care tailored to their specific needs.

The chief reason for needing a physician referral in the past was to guarantee that patients were first evaluated by a medical doctor, confirming that physical therapy was the right treatment. However, in some cases, this meant that Liguori, MO and Missouri residents that definitely needed physical therapy had unnecessary delays in accessing treatment. Previous law also didn’t take into account the expertise that licensed physical therapists in Liguori, 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 working diligently to pass direct access physical therapy in the state for 10 years. Missouri Senate Bill 51 seeks to remove certain barriers to physical therapy in Liguori, 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 removes previous provisions that restricted the ability of physical therapists to examine and treat specific conditions or injuries without a prescription or referral.
Physical therapists are mandated to refer patients to an approved health care provider if
- The patient’s condition is beyond the scope of physical therapy practice;
- The patient doesn’t exhibit noticeable or functional improvement within ten visits or 30 days (whichever is sooner).
Following ten visits or 30 days (whichever comes first), a physical therapist:
- Is required to consult with an approved health care provider prior to continuing therapy if the patient’s condition has improved and further therapy is considered necessary;
- Needs to provide specific information to the health care provider during this consultation;
- Shall go ahead 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:
- File complaints against a physical therapist for evaluating or treating a patient not in line with the provisions of the act and existing laws related to the scope of practice for physical therapists.
- This substitutes the previous provision where the Board could complain about a therapist working without a prescription and direction from specific healthcare providers.

Licensed physical therapists in Liguori, MO, like those at Axes, are authorities in the musculoskeletal system. Direct access physical therapy lets us to utilize our expertise to optimally serve our Liguori, MO communities, while continuing our partnership with trusted medical doctors when necessary.

Benefits of Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, MO

The primary objective of direct access physical therapy is to make therapy easier to access to people affected certain conditions in Liguori, MO and throughout Missouri. In doing so, it offers the following benefits:

Quick intervention — Direct access permits patients to get care without delay. Prompt intervention can result in quicker recovery and can avoid minor issues from becoming major problems.
Decreased costs — By getting rid of the need for a physician referral, patients can potentially save on consultation fees, imaging tests, and other associated expenses. Furthermore, early physical therapy intervention could decrease the need for more costly treatments or surgeries down the line.
Efficient care — Direct access cuts down the number of steps in the care-seeking process. Patients no longer have to schedule and attend a separate doctor’s appointment prior to starting therapy.
Patient empowerment and convenience — Patients have the choice to pick their physical therapist and begin treatment on their terms, leading to a more patient-centered care philosophy.
Decreased medication use — Physical therapy can offer pain relief and functional improvement free from relying on medications, particularly opioids or other painkillers. Direct access can consequently help in lowering reliance on medication by offering an alternative pain management solution.
Better outcomes — Certain studies have shown that patients who use physical therapy directly have similar or even better outcomes than those who go through the traditional referral pathway.
Increased patient satisfaction — Direct access physical therapy can improve patient satisfaction by means of reduced costs and improved patient outcomes.
Decreased burden on primary care — Direct access can relieve certain of the burdens on primary care providers, permitting them to focus on patients who need their care.

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

Despite the fact that direct access physical therapy in Liguori, MO offers a new level of convenience for some patients, there may be some misconceptions about in what situations it’s right and who it’s right for. It’s vital to clear up what direct access physical therapy does not mean:

Not a replacement for physicians — Direct access does not indicate that physical therapists are replacing the necessity for physicians or their expertise. Physicians and physical therapists have separate education and experience. Although physical therapists can evaluate and treat many musculoskeletal conditions, physicians have a crucial role in identifying and treating a broad range of medical conditions, prescribing medications, and offering specialized medical interventions.
Not comprehensive diagnosing — While physical therapists are educated to evaluate and diagnose problems associated with movement, posture, and musculoskeletal health, they do not diagnose all health conditions. For instance, if a patient presents with symptoms that might be symptomatic of a more extensive issue or a condition out of the realm of a physical therapist’s range, a physician referral is both necessary and in the best interest of the patient.
Still a collaborative approach — Direct access does not reduce the significance of teamwork between healthcare professionals. Physical therapists routinely work closely with physicians, sharing insights, conversing about patient progress, and figuring out the best course of action. This collaborative approach ensures complete care, and will still be used when necessary.
Not a catch-all solutions — Each and every patient is an individual, and direct access might not be suitable for everyone. Certain patients, especially those with complex medical histories or undiagnosed symptoms, can advantage from a physician’s examination prior to starting physical therapy.
Not overlooking red flags — If a physical therapist discovers “red flags” or symptoms suggesting a more critical underlying condition during an examination, they will promptly refer the patient to a medical doctor for more assessment.
Not bypassing insurance stipulations — Even though the law might permit direct access, some insurance policies may still need a physician’s referral for payment.

When to Use Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, MO (and When Not to)

When to Use Direct Access Physical Therapy

Here are scenarios where direct access physical therapy in Liguori, MO could be your first choice:

Small injuries — If you’ve experienced a recent minor injury like a sprain, muscle strain, sports injury, or a simple fall, and you’re sure about its nature and a physical therapist can correctly identify it, direct access can offer immediate assessment and intervention without the trouble of seeking a referral.
Chronic pain treatment — For those struggling with persistent pain, especially related to musculoskeletal issues like low back pain, osteoarthritis, or repetitive stress injuries, starting with a physical therapist can provide relief and pain management strategies.
Injury prevention — If you’re seeking to prevent potential injuries, whether you’re an athlete or have a labor-intensive job, direct access physical therapy enables you to consult with a physical therapist for tips and exercise routines.
Repeated issues — For conditions or issues you’ve faced before, such as recurrent lower back pain, direct access physical therapy can help you address the problem without going through the process of obtaining a referral again.
Health and fitness advice — If you’re aiming to optimize your workouts, seeking advice on safe exercises, wanting to ensure you’re using proper form, or even just thinking of doing a beginner running program, a physical therapist can provide valuable insights.

When NOT to Use Direct Access Physical Therapy

Regardless of the improved patient outcomes that direct access physical therapy can offer, there are still many situations where a physical therapist working alongside your Liguori, MO physician is best:

Significant injuries — In cases of acute injuries, suspected fractures, dislocations, or other acute conditions, immediate medical attention is imperative. These situations typically require an emergency room visit or consultation with a specialist.
Complex medical histories — For individuals with complicated medical backgrounds or multiple health conditions, a physician’s diagnosis 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 severe root cause (e.g., unexplained weight loss, night sweats, persistent fever), a medical doctor should be involved from the start.
Systemic or non-musculoskeletal symptoms — If your symptoms seem to be related to systemic issues, like digestive problems or respiratory issues, it’s vital to first consult with a physician to rule out conditions that fall outside the realm of a physical therapist’s expertise.
Pre/Post-surgical rehabilitation — Physical therapy is often used to help patients get ready for surgery and to recover strength and mobility after surgery. Pre- and post-surgery rehab requires input from your Liguori, MO medical doctor.

While Axes’ Liguori, 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 Liguori, MO is both mandated and in the best interest of the patient.

If you’re unsure if direct access is right for you, you can always head to any Axes’ Physical Therapy location near you for a free injury screening, and our qualified 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 Liguori, MO

If you’re looking for direct access physical therapy in Liguori, MO, Axes offers numerous services that can help you regain strength and mobility. Here’s how you can get started with Axes today:

Check with your insurance — While Missouri law now allows direct access physical therapy, many insurance carriers in Liguori, MO still require a physician referral if you want to be reimbursed, so inquire with your insurance about their process. Don’t have insurance? Direct access physical therapy isn’t covered? Axes offers reasonable cash-based options that will offer you access to the recovery options you need to provide long-term value 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 — Write down any issues or concerns you have so you won’t forget to bring them up when you meet your Liguori, MO physical therapist. Wear loose clothing as you may do some light stretching or moderate exercise.
Follow your treatment plan and communicate — All of our treatment plans are completely personalized based on your individual situation, and are based on proven, scientifically-backed treatment modalities. Your Axes physical therapist in Liguori, 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 Liguori, MO include:

Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, MO | Occupational and Physical Therapists Near Liguori

Call Axes for Your Direct Access Physical Therapy in Liguori, MO Today

Regardless of whether you want to get back to your favorite sport, want to begin a new fitness journey, 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 skills, compassion, and cutting-edge technologies, your journey to a better, more capable you is in the trustworthy hands of our licensed Liguori, MO physical therapists. Don’t let pain or mobility issues keep you back any longer. Contact the Axes location nearest you or request an appointment online for your direct access physical therapy today.

Direct Access Physical Therapy Liguori, MO