What is direct access to physical therapy? 

Direct Access is a law that allows patients to seek and receive evaluation and treatment from a physical therapist, for a limited timeframe*, without a prescription or a referral from a health care provider. In other words, direct access lets you visit a physical therapist when you feel you need to see one.

*What are the provisions to the Direct Access Law in Missouri? 

As of August 28, 2023, direct access to physical therapy services became available in the state of Missouri. Missouri’s direct access law (through Senate Bill 51) allows physical therapists to provide direct physical therapy evaluation and treatment services for a period of up to 10 visits or 30 days (whichever comes first). If treatment is needed beyond the allowed days, then a health care provider will need to evaluate the treatment plan, and give a referral. Once the health care provider submits a referral, treatment can continue as needed. 

Therapists are required to refer patients to a healthcare provider if the condition being evaluated is outside the scope of a physical therapy.

Direct access provides you with an immediate physical therapy option.

How can I get direct access to physical therapy at Outbound? 

You can schedule an initial evaluation at one of our two locations to determine if physical therapy is the best treatment option for you. If you have would like to utilize Direct Access, please call one of our scheduling lines (East: 573-681-0447, West: 573-606-7100) or send us an email with your name and contact information. We will gather your personal and insurance information, and diagnosis/ reason assessment, and schedule your Initial Evaluation.

What should I expect during my initial evaluation? 

During the initial evaluation, your therapist will determine your current condition. If the therapist concludes that physical therapy is necessary, he or she will then create a personalized plan of care so that your physical therapy treatment can begin. For additional information on what to expect during your first visit please take a look at “Patients Frequently Asked Questions” page.

Outbound Physical Therapy & Rehab offers direct access to physical therapy at our East and West clinics. We are here to help keep you active and moving.

Do I qualify for direct access to physical therapy if I am a Medicare patient? 

The situation for direct access with Medicare in Missouri is a bit complex. While Missouri law allows direct access for physical therapy, Medicare has its own rules that treating facilities must follow for reimbursement. Physical therapists can typically perform an initial evaluation to assess if your condition is suited for physical therapy, even for Medicare patients. However, Medicare coverage for ongoing treatment often requires a physician's referral and plan of care approval. The therapist will likely need the physician to recertify the plan periodically (usually every 30 days).

Recommendation:

• Contact your doctor: Discuss your desire for physical therapy and inquire about a referral. They can assess your situation and determine the best course of action.

• Contact a physical therapy clinic: Explain you're a Medicare patient and interested in direct access. They can advise you on their specific policies and whether an initial evaluation is possible without a referral.

Medicare patients who visit an Outbound clinic without a referral can be seen for an initial evaluation. If the physical therapist determines you are a candidate for physical therapy, the treatment plan will be sent to your health care provider for signature. After receiving a signed plan of care, physical therapy can continue. 

What if I don’t have a referring health care provider at the time of my initial evaluation? 

Treatment may begin if it is determined that physical therapy is required. If you don’t have a referring health care provider, Outbound physical therapists can provide information to assist you in securing a referral, so that treatment can continue uninterrupted.

Will insurance cover direct access to physical therapy? 

Insurance coverage for physical therapy under Direct Access is covered by most insurance plans. However, the rules of coverage may vary from one provider to another. We encourage you to talk to your insurance company to confirm coverage requirements.

If pain or limited range of motion and mobility are keeping you from doing the things you love, it’s time to get some help. Schedule an initial evaluation so you can get back to your daily activities.

Ready for Relief?

If you’re interested in finding relief through physical or occupational therapy, the therapists at Outbound Physical Therapy & Rehab are here to help. Request an initial evaluation appointment by calling one of the Outbound locations at: East: 573-681-0447, West: 573-606-7100 or send us an email with your name and contact information.