Is Ohio a direct access state for physical therapy?

Ohio is classified as a direct access state for physical therapy, which means that patients can seek treatment from a licensed physical therapist without needing a referral from a physician. However, there are some provisions in place that govern this access.

For instance, while patients can directly access physical therapy services, there are stipulations regarding the frequency and duration of treatment that a therapist can provide without a physician's referral. If a patient requires treatment beyond a certain period or if the therapist determines that the patient needs further medical evaluation, a referral from a physician may be necessary. This framework ensures that patients receive appropriate care while also allowing some level of autonomy in accessing physical therapy services.

In contrast, the other options do not fully capture the nuances of Ohio's direct access policy. While direct access exists, it is not entirely unrestricted, and specific provisions ensure that patients remain under the appropriate level of medical oversight when necessary.