Direct access means that you, the patient, is able to refer yourself to a physical therapist without having to see anyone else first, or without being told to refer yourself by another health professional.

Some key facts:
Direct access puts patients in control of their care
Patients who refer themselves to physical therapy:

• are more proactive
• are more autonomous in making health decisions
• take less time off work
• return to work sooner
• are more likely complete a course of treatment
• are more interested in self management
• more satisfied with their care

Direct access saves money through:

• reducing costs of seeing other health professionals
• less prescribing
• less secondary care
• reducing costs to society (i.e. through time off work)
• less administration costs
  

Direct access does not lead to increased demands for services if they are adequately resourced
Direct access is not just appropriate for musculoskeletal services, but across all areas of practice

The Choice Is Yours!