DIRECT ACCESS ADVOCACY: A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE, WORKING STRATEGICALLY FOR ADVOCACY AND ACTION
The terms direct access and self-referral mean people are able to refer themselves to a physiotherapist without having to see anyone else first, or without being told to refer themselves by another health professional. The extent to which people can self-refer to a physiotherapist varies from country to country.
World Physiotherapy believe it should be possible for people to be able to go directly to a physiotherapist to receive care or treatment – without having to get a referral from a doctor.
We have worked with our member organisations in a number of countries/territories to give people direct access to physiotherapy. This is supported by evidence for clinical and cost effectiveness. Further, creating the right environment for direct access requires an integrated systems approach including professional regulation, physiotherapist entry level education, professional standards and well developed relationships with other health professionals and service funders. Identified as a key strategic priority following consultation with our stakeholders, join us as we explore what we can all do to increase the availability of direct access to physiotherapy services.
- Explore the environmental context for direct access
- Consider the evidence for advocacy
- Examine strategies for collaborative action for change
