Myth No. 1: You need a referral to see a physical therapist.
Fact: A recent survey by the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) revealed that 70% of people think a referral or a prescription is required to receive an evaluation by a physical therapist. However, all 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC) allow patients to be evaluated by a physical therapist without a physician’s prior referral. In addition, 49 states and DC allow for some form of treatment or intervention without a physician’s referral or a prescription. Michigan is the exception, but on January 1, 2015, patients in Michigan will be able to do so as well. It is important to know that some states have restrictions regarding the treatment a physical therapist can provide without a physician’s referral. Check out APTA’s direct access summary chart (.pdf) to see the restrictions in your state.
