Physical Therapists Ordering Imaging and Making Direct Referrals in a Military Healthcare Setting; Two Case Studies.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Therapy
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Military physical therapists possess extensive practice privileges in the USA.
• These privileges include ordering diagnostic imaging, making direct referrals, and direct patient access.
• This independent functioning model potentially enhances patient care efficiency and effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To showcase physical therapists ordering diagnostic imaging.
• To correlate physical therapists making direct referrals.
• To highlight successful patient outcomes resulting from these expanded privileges.

Main Methods:

• Case study analysis of two active duty military personnel.
• Review of physical therapists' decision-making processes utilizing their practice privileges.
• Documentation of patient outcomes following imaging orders and direct referrals.

Main Results:

• Case 1: Physical therapist ordered imaging for an ankle injury, leading to a referral to a podiatric surgeon and successful outcome.
• Case 2: Physical therapist made a direct referral for a knee injury, resulting in successful patient recovery.
• Both cases demonstrated positive patient outcomes with return to prior level of function.

Conclusions:

• Military physical therapists' expanded scope of practice facilitates timely patient management and improved outcomes.
• The independent functioning model contributes to enhanced patient satisfaction and care efficiency.
• This model offers a potential framework for consideration in civilian healthcare settings.