Texas Physical Therapy Association - Direct Access Case Study

Physical Therapists are highly-educated, licensed healthcare professionals that play an integral part in patient recovery. Barriers in Texas state law made it difficult for patients to access their expertise without referrals. In 2019, the Texas Physical Therapy Association (TPTA) hired The Brannan Firm to represent them at the Texas Capitol with a goal of successfully passing important legislation allowing Texans direct access to this network of healthcare providers. 

THE CHALLENGE

Texas was only one of two states that did not allow physical therapy treatment without a referral, creating a barrier in access to care in a state that is ranked 47th in access to physician services. Physical Therapists' (PT) involvement significantly improves patient outcomes without the need for expensive surgery or the long-term use of opioids and other prescription medicines. TPTA has supported and lobbied for legislation that would allow Texas patients to access physical therapy services without having to take an unnecessary visit to the physician’s office to obtain a referral for PT services. For more than 26 years, direct access legislation had failed to pass.

BRANNAN FIRM DELIVERED RESULTS

The Brannan Firm successfully positioned the need for direct access to physical therapy treatment. From lawmaker education to astute legislative strategy, The Brannan Firm helped ensure HB 29, providing direct access, successfully passed the Texas Legislature. Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed HB 29 on June 14, 2019, allowing Texans to seek the treatment they need without the delay and expense of having to see a physician first. Effective September 1, 2019, Texans can now go directly to their Physical Therapist and be treated for up to 10-15 business days.