As a community-based physical therapist, I remain deeply concerned that countless patients across the country – many of whom are elderly, immunocompromised, and suffer from pre-existing conditions – will be unable to access the safe, effective pain-management treatments they depend on to stay healthy and independent. Were patients to face difficulties accessing outpatient physical therapy, it would make it harder for them to regain balance, strength, and mobility following serious illness and injury, putting them at greater risk for accidental falls and other negative outcomes.
This is a problem with no ready solutions, but there is one action that Washington can take right now that will help: expanding access to telehealth-based care services.
