Direct access is a term used to describe using physical therapy as an entry point to healthcare. It used to be a fact that referral from a physician was needed to see a physical therapist. This is no longer, legally speaking. Insurance companies may have different rules that are stricter. The common insurance that does not allow direct access is Medicare. You must have a referral if you are insured by Medicare. Referral from a chiropractor does not work.
Direct access has been a great way to reduce time for patients to get musculoskeletal injuries evaluated and treated by experts. Primary care physicians are great for treatment and management medical conditions. They do not have the time for treatment and follow up that many musculoskeletal injuries require. Physical therapists are the movement experts and are often the frontline treatment for many injuries. Getting patients in front of a physical therapist for evaluation as soon as possible is the best scenario.