By Dr. John R. Mishock, PT, DPT, DC
Studies show that seeing a physical therapist first through direct access can: improve musculoskeletal pain faster; reduce or remove the need for some types of musculoskeletal surgery; reduce opioid use; improve patient satisfaction; reduce expensive medical testing; and help patients get needed treatment faster. (Physical Therapy, 2017)
For example, the cost associated with early referrals to physical therapy for low back pain was approximately 50% less expensive than for those not receiving physical therapy at all. It was estimated if low back patients were seen in physical therapy within 3 days of the onset of low back pain it would save US economy >$7.2 billion per year. (Physical therapy, 2018)
With direct access, getting the help you need has never been easier. Direct access is a law that allows you to seek care from your physical therapist without a physician referral. This means that as a patient, you can call us directly if you have an injury, pain, stiffness, or weakness that you want evaluated. We at Mishock Physical Therapy & Associates can be your first stop for any aches, pains, or injuries that are impairing your quality of life.
In some cases, your insurance provider may require a physician referral before they cover your cost. That’s no problem. We can recommend you to a trusted physician or specialist before continuing your care. We have relationships with many local providers and may be able to get an appointment for you sooner than if you went on your own.
As physical therapists, our goals have always been to get people out of pain and back into the activities they enjoy most. So the next time you have an injury, pain, stiffness, or weakness that you want evaluated, come see Mishock Physical Therapy first. We can evaluate your pain, help you feel better faster, and if we need to refer you to a physician or specialist before starting treatment, we can recommend you to a professional that we trust. We can’t wait for you to experience the benefits of direct access through Mishock Physical Therapy!
*Direct Access is not applicable to patients in federal or state funded programs, such as Medicare, Medicaid or Tricare.
We can help!
If you have pain or limited function restricting you from doing the activities you enjoy, call Mishock Physical Therapy for a FREE Phone Consultation at (610)327-2600 , visit our website to learn more about our treatment philosophy, our physical therapy staff, and our 6 convenient locations in Gilbertsville, Skippack, Phoenixville, Barto, Limerick and Pottstown at www.mishock.wpengine.com.
Dr. Mishock is one of only a few clinicians with doctorate level degrees in both physical therapy and chiropractic in the state of Pennsylvania.
