Integrating Physical Therapists Into Primary Care Within A Large Health Care System

Area of Science:

• Primary Care Innovation
• Integrated Health Services
• Musculoskeletal Management

Background:

• Bellin Health has integrated physical therapists into primary care pods.
• This model aims to improve patient care for musculoskeletal complaints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of collocated physical therapists in primary care.
• To assess patient outcomes, costs, and satisfaction compared to physician management.

Main Methods:

• Observational study design.
• Data collected through one in-person visit and multiple interviews.

Main Results:

• Physical therapists provide diagnosis, treatment, and education for musculoskeletal issues.
• Appropriate patients managed by physical therapists show better outcomes, lower costs, and higher satisfaction.
• Video visits by physical therapists offer comparable quality to in-person visits, especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions:

• The Bellin Health model serves as a template for integrating physical therapists into primary care teams.
• This integration can enhance primary care delivery for musculoskeletal conditions.