Patient Direct Access Laws
Changes in the Law
Virginia has become more accessible to every patient. The Commonwealth over the last 20 years has slowly improved patient access to care. Throughout the U.S every state has some version of Direct Access. Some states have unrestricted Direct Access. Others have limited Direct Access and about half have Direct Access with provisions.
The laws in Virginia have opened up as of July 2023 with more Direct Access with provisions. This has also expanded the ability for physiotherapist to provide Intramuscular Stimulation (Trigger Point Dry Needling).
Direct Access: Patient Care
In the Commonwealth of Virginia the signed legislation became effective in July 2023 improving Direct Access for all patient care. The new legislation allows for care falling within the scope of the physiotherapist to start without barriers. Medicare patients are the exception, please review the below provision. This legislation does not have any effect on Insurance Policies. You should review your insurance coverage/benefits and plan documents prior to care to determine if a medical script is required.
Example of new Legislation without Provisions:
A patient can call and set up an initial evaluation without a referral from any other provider. The physiotherapist will be able to provide the initial evaluation, determine a plan of care if care falls within the scope of practice of the therapist and implement the plan to achieve your goals.
Provisions:
- Medicare patients require a Script after the Initial Evaluation to continue physical therapy. Care can not be provided if no script is obtained.
- If you are currently working with a licensed doctor of medicine, osteopathy, chiropractic, podiatry, dental surgery, licensed nurse practitioner, or physician assistant this provider needs to be sent a copy of the initial evaluation within 14 days.
Intramuscular Stimulation
This is the second change in Virginia legislation that occurred in July 2023. This new legislation has removed the need for a referral from any provider to provide Intramuscular Stimulation (Trigger Point Dry Needling) by a skilled therapist. Intramuscular Stimulation is currently practiced in 39 states and DC.
