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Bill

SB 157

Relating to the treatment of a patient by a physical therapist without a referral.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by José Menéndez

SB 157 allows Texas patients to receive physical therapy directly without physician referrals, increasing access but potentially reducing coordinated care oversight.

Referred to Health & Human Services
#boardofphysicaltherapyexaminers #texas(v0946) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #physicaltherapists(s6112)
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Bill Summary · SB 157

Legislative bill overview

SB 157 would allow patients in Texas to receive physical therapy treatment directly from a physical therapist without first obtaining a physician referral. Currently, Texas law requires patients to have a doctor's referral before accessing physical therapy services. This bill would remove that requirement, enabling direct patient access to physical therapists.

Why is this important

This change could increase patient autonomy and reduce healthcare delays for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, as patients wouldn't need to schedule a doctor's appointment first. However, it also affects healthcare coordination, insurance reimbursement practices, and the scope of care that physical therapists can provide independently without physician oversight.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance coverage: Many insurance plans require physician referrals for physical therapy reimbursement; this bill's interaction with insurance requirements remains unclear
  • Patient safety and scope of practice: Concerns about whether physical therapists can adequately diagnose serious underlying conditions that mimic musculoskeletal problems without physician evaluation
  • Opposition from medical professionals: Physicians may resist reduced gatekeeping authority, while some argue coordination of care improves outcomes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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