According to a news report from InsuranceNewsNet.com, the Michigan House of Representatives has passed legislation to provide direct consumer access to physical therapy services. Senate Bill 690 allows physical therapists to treat patients without a referral from a physician and is accompanied by four other bills that amend state law in regards to insurance coverage. A news release on behalf of Michigan State Representative Margaret O’Brien states: “State Rep. Margaret O’Brien applauds the Michigan House today for passing legislation to provide direct consumer access to physical therapy services.”

SB 690 provides for a physical therapist to treat a patient without a prescription for 21 days or 10 treatments, whichever happens first, and allows for unlimited access to prevent injury or promote fitness, as indicated on the InsuranceNewsNet.com news release. O’Brien says, “This legislation not only allows physical therapists to treat patients directly, but will cut the waiting time for patients to receive therapeutic treatments for a variety of ailments.”

O’Brien adds, “This legislation will also encourage recent physical therapy graduates to stay and practice in Michigan, which is a win for patients and physical therapists alike.” She states, “I commend Senator Moolenaar and my colleagues in both chambers who supported this commonsense legislation and have now moved Michigan in line with the rest of the country on access to physical therapy services.”

The InsuranceNewsNet.com news report notes that SB 690-94 will soon head to the governor for consideration.

Source: InsuranceNewsNet.com