Sen. Becker: Gov. Pence Signs Bill Giving Hoosiers
STATEHOUSE (June 4, 2013) — Legislation sponsored by State Sen. Vaneta Becker (R- Evansville) to allow Hoosiers more direct access to needed physical therapy services was signed into law today by Gov. Mike Pence.
House Enrolled Act 1034 eliminates the requirement that patients obtain a general physician or chiropractor referral in order to be treated by a physical therapist for 24 days or less. If treatment goes beyond 24 calendar days, then the patient must seek a referral. Becker said this policy enables Indiana residents to play a more active role in their health-care decisions, and will save both time and money.
“I have spent more than 20 years working to open up access to physical therapy services for Hoosiers. Today’s initiative will benefit both patients and the health-care industry by removing an unnecessary barrier to care,†Becker said. “Patients will be spending less time waiting for referrals and more time healing.â€
HEA 1034 takes effect July 1, 2013
