It’s no secret that I’ve been an advocate for adding a physical medicine worker to your healthcare team. For the past few years, I’ve put this message out on local media, and social media, and talked to countless people about it. But what I’ve never done is write a blog about it. So here goes…

My media pitch usually starts with something along the line of “Most of us have a Dentist, a Medical Doctor, and an Eye Doctor, so why not add a physical medicine provider to your team?”

What do I mean about physical medicine providers? Licensed Massage Therapists (LMT), Acupuncturists, Chiropractors, and Physiatrists, but my favorite physical medicine provider of all is the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). Yes, I know I am biased, but a DPT has so many ways they can keep your body healthy as the range of services DPT’s are trained in covers your balance and vestibular system, pelvic floor, and musculoskeletal injuries. Not every DPT treats in every system, but all physical ailments are within the scope of a physical therapist’s practice.

Another reason DPT’s are my favorite physical medicine provider is because of Direct Access with Direct Reimbursement. With Direct Access to DPT’s, a person with a physical ailment can call and schedule an appointment with their DPT WITHOUT seeing their Primary Care Provider (PCP) first. That’s right! Back pain after yardwork go see your DPT! Roll an ankle at a weekend basketball game, call a DPT! Room feels like it’s spinning leaving you nauseous-your DPT can treat that too! And if you feel like you’re taking note of where a bathroom is before shopping with girlfriends all day you too may benefit from seeing your DPT!

Direct Reimbursement from most insurances means that your insurance will also cover the costs of going directly to a DPT for your condition or injury. It’s a winning situation!

Once a DPT is on your team, they not only fulfill an important role in your health, but they actually help lower your healthcare costs. By coming directly to a DPT, you don’t have to pay for an office visit with your PCP, which often ends up with a referral to a PT. This saves you time and money. It’s a win for everyone, but especially your body.

I’m going to share one last bias. Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness Center is the BEST fit for anyone in Southeast North Dakota or Western Minnesota. We’re the best choice because we have a talented team of general and specialty DPT’s and highly trained Licensed Massage Therapists to cover all your physical needs, we have a reputation for high-quality care, and we love forming personal connections with patients. If you haven’t added a physical medicine provider to you or your family’s healthcare team, we’d love you to choose Apex.

We promise that you’ll love being added to our Apex Family!