OPTA Highlights 10 Years Direct Access to Physical Therapy in Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA) released today its 10-Year Anniversary of Direct Access video, celebrating 10 years of Direct Access to physical therapy services in the state of Ohio. Legislation enacted in 2004 enabled patients in Ohio to see their physical therapist without a physician referral. Prior to enactment, access to physical therapy was reliant on a physician referral for therapy services. The video is one piece in a larger campaign aimed at raising awareness about Direct Access and the benefits of early treatment and care.

"The work we have been able to accomplish has provided a better understanding of how physical therapy can contribute to the broader goal of long-term solutions by helping patients get back to the activities they love," said OPTA President Anthony DiFilippo, PT, DPT, MEd, OCS, CSCS.

Highlights of the 10-year anniversary celebration include features on OPTA's major legislation and helpful resources. The video accompanies these endeavors by illustrating the importance of Direct Access, including:

• The benefits of early access to the healthcare system
• Empowerment for people to control their personal care
• Customized treatment programs by licensed, experienced professionals that meet specific needs
• Ability to manage pain without costly medication, surgery or other invasive means
• Lowering the costs of long-term medical care and treatment

The video was filmed at a local physical therapy clinic and includes a comprehensive introduction to physical therapy, a look into the experience of everyday evaluations and treatments, and a brief look back at the legislation that transformed physical therapy services in Ohio.

"My job as Executive Director is to advocate for health policies that advance the physical therapy practice and increase public awareness of physical therapy," said OPTA Executive Director Victoria Gresh. "If you are looking for a solution that significantly improves recovery—direct access to physical therapy is a truly transformative experience for both physical therapist and patient."

The Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA) is non-profit professional trade organization representing physical therapists, physical therapy assistants who are licensed in Ohio, and Ohio physical therapist students and physical therapist assistant students. OPTA represents more than 3,100 therapists and therapy students in Ohio. This organization is an affiliate of the American Physical Therapy Association, a national professional organization representing more than 80,000 members.

Learn more about the Direct Access to physical therapy here on our website: www.myohiopt.com. 

SOURCE Ohio Physical Therapy Association (OPTA)