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The short answer: NO! You do not need a referral to see a physical therapist in CT.
Physical therapy in Connecticut is direct access, meaning no referral or prescription necessary. Physical therapists learn how to identify when a patient needs to seek further medical care, or when they are able to provide what the patient may need.
The bill was passed in 2006, which states:
This bill allows a licensed physical therapist to treat human ailments without an oral or written referral if:
1. The therapist has practiced physical therapy for at least three out of the most recent six years of their clinical practice, or earned a master's or higher degree in physical therapy from an accredited institution of higher education.
2. The practice requires the patient to disclose or confirm the name of his primary care provider or provider of record the first time they treat the patient without referral.
3. The therapist provides information to anyone seeking treatment about the need to consult with their primary care provider or provider of record regarding the person's underlying condition if it is prolonged, does not improve within 30 days, or still requires continuous treatment.
4. The therapist refers the patient to one of the licensed practitioners listed above if, after examination or reexamination, the condition for which the patient sought physical therapy does not show objective, measurable, functional improvement in any 30-day consecutive period or at the end of six visits, whichever occurs sooner.
In short...
1. To make things simple, the therapist must have a masters or doctorate in physical therapy. (Both Dave and Cait do!)
2. We need to ask you for your primary care doc's name. (It's on the paperwork!)
3 + 4. If you aren't getting better, we need to send you to your doctor.
References:
About the author: Dr. Caitlyn Hauswirth-Varis, PT, DPT, OCS, CFMT, CF-L1
Caitlyn is board certified as an orthopedic specialist and an expert in pelvic floor physical therapy. She has presented to other PTs, physicians, and trainers on the topic of scope of practice, evaluation, and ensuring appropriate referrals to other health care professionals.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
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