Not familiar with direct-access therapy? Have you, a family member, or friend ever raised a concern to a doctor and asked about therapy, only to be told “give it time”? In the meantime, you or your loved one experienced worry, pain, decreased function, and other life-impacting issues. The fact of the matter is that you don’t have to wait for a doctor’s referral in most cases. You can schedule with a therapist directly.
What is Direct-Access Therapy?
Direct-access therapy is the practice where patients can visit a therapist directly without a physician’s referral. This model has been widely adopted in many states and countries, revolutionizing the way patients access healthcare services. Historically, patients needed a referral from a doctor to see a therapist, which often delayed treatment and increased costs. Direct access removes this barrier, promoting faster and more cost-effective care and allowing you to access therapy services whenever you want.
Benefits of Direct-Access Therapy
Direct-access therapy services have many advantages that can prompt health and overall function. These include:
- Faster Treatment: One of the primary advantages of direct access therapy is the speed at which patients can begin treatment. Without the need for a referral, you can schedule therapy as soon as the issue arises instead first going to see a doctor and then the therapist. Instead, address issues that therapy is known to help with like pain, injuries, or developmental delays as quickly as possible. Early intervention generally leads to better outcomes.
- Reduced Cost: You may avoid costs associated with extra doctor’s visits and other diagnostics if you schedule therapy without getting a doctor’s referral. In addition, faster treatment can prevent the need for more expensive interventions down the line.
- Increased Control: When accessing therapy directly, you can determine what type of therapy would be most beneficial to you as well as when and where the services should take place. Your therapists will work with you to develop the best treatment plan that will meet your needs. You get therapy on your own terms.
- Coordinated Care: When given permission to share information, all therapy clinicians can coordinate care with physicians and other healthcare providers. If a therapist feels that your condition warrants further diagnostic testing, medication management, or other doctor related services, they will make those recommendations to you. In addition, some states have regulations that require therapists to contact your doctor if treatment needs to continue after a set period of time. You don’t have to choose having services from just a therapist or a doctor. You can have both.
How Does Direct-Access Therapy Work?
When you or a loved one have a condition that you feel can be addressed by a therapist, you reach out to a therapist or therapy company like Enablr Therapy to schedule your initial visit. On the first visit, your therapist will conduct an evaluation which includes assessing your physical condition and reviewing your medical history with you. You are also welcome to provide any prior medical records that are relevant. Using that information, the therapist will work with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your goals and needs.
As mentioned above, some states require that the therapists contact your doctor for a prescription for ongoing services after set periods of time. This requirement varies state to state and by discipline. Your therapist should talk with you about these requirements so that you are aware when they are contacting your doctor.
Direct-access therapy is transforming the landscape of therapy services, offering faster, more affordable, and effective care. By understanding and utilizing this model, you can take control of your and your loved ones health and well-being.
Learn more on our Therapy Services page.
