With all of the health changes that have spanned across the Globe, one thing weighs heavy on everyone’s mind:
Will I get Coronavirus and How do I protect myself against it??
Let’s start with current recommendations of “shelter in place” around the country, as well as social distancing, staying away from crowds of more than 10-50 people, keeping up with hand washing, personal hygiene, and wiping down surfaces frequently. These recommendations are ALL very important in decreasing your risk of infection or contracting the virus. What is often times missed, and is a big proponent of decreasing your likelihood of contracting the virus, is your personal health and immune system response prior to the virus, and how to distance yourself even if you need medical care; this is where direct access comes into play.
What is direct access?
Direct Access is a period of time where a person has immediate and direct access to a health care practitioner without referral from a physician. Meaning if they have an issue or a question, they can directly ask the health care practitioner, in this case, a Doctor of Physical Therapy. In Florida, we are allotted 30 days of direct access, after which time, we would request a prescription to continue services either from your primary physician or we can set you up with an appointment from one of our many referral partners.
why is direct access beneficial?
As mentioned above, taking advantage of direct access, especially during the times of Coronavirus, can significantly reduce your risk to exposure to the virus at a busy hospital, clinic, or ER. It can also provide you with knowledge and treatment, if needed, for musculoskeletal issues (sprains, strains, pain, instability, balance, etc.), as well as give you guidance and a “quicker way in” to referring physicians for more difficult or severe issues.
who can use direct access?
Anyone can use direct access. No matter if you have insurance or do not, direct access is for the benefit of the patient. Typically self-pay clinics, like Body Mechanics PT, are able to get you an appointment within 24hrs, and limit your time waiting for appointments at other facilities if you need to be referred out. Direct access also extends to TeleHealth services at Body Mechanics PT, so if you do not feel comfortable coming into the office for a 1-on-1 appointment with Dr. Braun, she is happy to set up a video chat session for your convenience.
To Keep Yourself Healthy and Moving Correctly,
Direct Access is the Answer.
Increasing physical activity, keeping your mind and body in shape, and making sure you are doing your online exercises correctly, are all tools that Dr. Braun can you help establish early and often. You DO NOT have to be injured to see Dr. Braun! Control the control-ables at this stage of the game: Your health, your wellness, your movement, your mindset, and your stress levels. If you can do that, you will reduce your likelihood of contracting the virus, and/or decrease your recovery time if you do happen to contract it. While you have the time, make your health your priority; during these times of uncertainty, be certain, and call Dr. Braun at Body Mechanics PT!
Schedule your FREE consultation today via in clinic, phone call, email, text, or video chat:
Please share this article with friends and family that may be dealing with pain or issues, or just have questions. It is always a FREE consultation!
What ways have you been keeping yourself healthy, mentally, physically, and emotionally?
Comment Below!
