Direct Access for the State of Michigan
There is now a new version of a bill for direct consumer access to physical therapy services in Michigan. The bill number is HB 5618. If you would like to learn more about why direct consumer access is important to Michigan, visit the Adovcacy section of the APTA Web site new window
.For the State of Michigan the sponsor of the bill is Representative Barb Vander Veen from the west side of the state. As many of you know Representative Vander Veen has been a strong advocate for physical therapists and she has worked hard to come up with a version of direct access that she feels has the best chance of being successful in the current legislative climate.
Right now we need all of you to be aware of who your local representative is for your area. Have this information available to contact them as the bill progresses. All contacts need to be made as soon as possible so that their names can be added to the bill as it progresses. You can find out who your representative is and get contact information by typing in your zip code in the Michigan section of the APTA State Legislative Advocacy Center new window
.To look at the current version of the bill you may go to the State of Michigan website new window
. This site enables you to look at current Michigan legislation. You may find the bill by typing the bill number 5618 [House Bill 5618 (2006)] or key word Physical Therapist and scroll for this bill.If you have any comments or information that you would like the legislative committee to consider please email them to MPTA
To stay informed as this bill progresses make sure that your email is up-to-date with the APTA website and we will be forwarding more information. Please add your support and action as the bill progresses. In the mean time if you or your Representative have any questions, please feel free to contact me or MPTA lobbyist Terry Vanderveen (517-827-0600).