Direct Access
The Missouri Physical Therapy Practice Act determines how patients can access physical therapy services in the state of Missouri. Physical Therapists licensed in the state must act in accordance to the Practice Act as dictated by the Missouri State Board of Healing Arts.
At this time, Missouri allows limited direct access to physical therapy services for symptomatic individuals and full direct access for asymptomatic individuals. For symptomatic individuals, a referral from an Approved Healthcare Provider (AHP) may be necessary to access physical therapy services. The specific provisions are as follows:
Referral from Approved Medical Provider necessary:
- New injury never diagnosed by an AHP
- Old injury never diagnosed by an AHP
- Recurring injury previously diagnosed by an AMP greater than 1 year of diagnosis
Referral from Approved Medical Provider not necessary:
- Recurring injury previously diagnosed by an AHP within 1 year of diagnosis
- Chronic illness (lasting greater than 6 months) previously diagnosed by an AMP
- Fitness and Wellness Program for asymptomatic individuals
- Education and resource training for asymptomatic individuals
Approved Medical Provider (AHP) List:
- Medical Doctor (MD)
- Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP)
- Physician Assistant (PA)
- Chiropractor (DC)
- Dentist (DDS, DMD)
- Podiatrist (DPM)
Please feel free to contact Dr. Trisha Becker if unable to determine whether or not a referral is needed prior to initiating physical therapy services.