The Texas Legislature began a few weeks ago and is rapidly getting into the swing of deliberating public policy. On Tuesday, February 19th, the Texas Physical Therapy Association will be hosting a physical therapy focused Legislative Action Day, during which therapists from across the state will be actively participating in a series of meet-and-greets with legislators in both the House and Senate. The goal of these meetings will be to educate our legislators about issues of importance to physical therapists and health care consumers across the state.
This session, a primary focus of the TPTA will be working to support House Bill 29, filed by Representative Ina Minjarez of San Antonio. This piece of legislation would eliminate the requirement to obtain a referral (prescription) for physical therapy prior to accessing care. Symmetry feels strongly that it should be the right of all Texas citizens to go directly to any health care provider that they choose. This legislation would allow anyone to see their physical therapist at any time for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions that affect their movement, daily function, and the ability to actively participate in normal work and social activities.
Two other physical therapy issues may also be addressed this session. One might be a bill that would enable physical therapists to be evaluators to determine need for disability placards for vehicles. Other possible legislation could add physical therapists to a list of various medical providers that could make decisions about when to remove student athletes from practice or competition following head injury.
Symmetry will be sending Brad Bevil, PT, DPT, MPTC to represent our clinic during the TPTA Legislative Action Day. Thanks in advance for participating, Brad!
It is not too early to contact your Senator or Representative to express your views and opinions about physical therapy related issues or anything else that is important to you. Click here to find out who represents you in the Texas Legislature and for their contact information.