Utah just made history and streamlined access to physical therapy. It’s great news if you have ever waited too long for care or if you need it in the future. While Utahns have long had direct access (the ability to see a physical therapist without a physician's referral), many health plans require a first visit with a primary care provider. A new state law now recognizes licensed physical therapists as primary care providers for pain and movement conditions.
How Does This Improve Patient Experience?
A new law, Senate Bill 196, makes Utah the first state to legally define physical therapy as a form of primary care under the state insurance code. Patients can now choose a physical therapist as their first point of contact under their benefits plan for neuromusculoskeletal conditions. These include problems such as back pain, joint stiffness, movement problems, sprains, or balance issues.
Previously, health plans often required patients to see a primary care provider first, even for problems that a physical therapist would eventually treat. With the new law, you can skip that step and go straight to the movement specialist. Health plans that require members to select a primary care provider, or PCP, must now permit patients to choose a physical therapist as that provider for musculoskeletal conditions. This gives patients more autonomy and faster access to appropriate care.
Why S.B.196 Matters for Access
When it comes to access to a primary care physician, Utah ranks 49th in the country. Combined with growing demand for care and a national shortage of primary care providers, the need for alternative solutions is clear.
Up to 40% of all primary care visits are related to muscle or joint pain. In many of those cases, a physician refers the patient to physical therapy anyway. S.B.196 streamlines that process and gets people to the right care sooner, making direct access to physical therapist treatment a smart, efficient choice. The new law also relieves pressure on an already stretched health care system.
What Makes Physical Therapists the Right Choice for Pain and Movement?
Physical therapists are doctorate-educated health professionals and movement experts. They assess, diagnose, and treat conditions that affect mobility and function. They also take a whole-body approach. In addition to managing pain and other symptoms, physical therapists identify underlying factors contributing to the problem and develop a personalized plan to help improve your function and support long-term wellness.
Rather than prescriptions or short-term fixes, physical therapists promote lasting recovery and better movement. They use hands-on care, targeted exercise, and patient education to restore strength, mobility, and confidence.
Choosing to see a physical therapist first doesn't mean your physician is kept out of the loop. Physical therapists partner with your physicians and other health care providers as needed to ensure that your care is well-coordinated and fully aligned with your overall health goals. If any additional concerns arise during your evaluation or treatment, they'll refer you to the appropriate provider — keeping your health care team informed and involved throughout your recovery.
What Are the Benefits of Starting With a Physical Therapist?
- Shorter wait times. Since you don't need a referral to meet health plan requirements, it means quicker access to care.
- Longer visits. A typical physical therapist appointment can last up to an hour and be focused entirely on you.
- Lower costs. You can skip extra appointments and co-pays and likely even avoid some tests and procedures.
- Stronger outcomes. Personalized care plans lead to better long-term results.
According to research, early access to physical therapy can help people recover faster, with fewer complications and less need for surgery or opioids.
Physical Therapy Is Not Just for Rehab
People often think of physical therapy as something you do after surgery, a medical event, or a serious injury. However, that is just one aspect of physical therapy. Physical therapists also help you:
- Prevent injuries
- Stay mobile and independent as you age
- Manage chronic conditions like arthritis or back pain
- Recover from everyday strains, falls, or overuse
If you have pain that affects how you move or limits your ability to work, enjoy activities you love, or do everyday tasks, a physical therapist may be the best provider to see first.
What This Means for Utahns
This law makes it easier to get care when you need it without jumping through hoops.
If you are in pain, struggling with mobility, or simply want to move better, you now have the option to start with a provider who specializes in exactly that.
Physical therapists are movement experts who use the latest evidence to design treatment plans for each person's needs and goals. They improve quality of life through hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement.
Visit Find a PT to locate a physical therapist near you.