Nova Scotians Now Have Direct Access to Physiotherapists

Nova Scotians now have direct access to physiotherapists, a result of legislation passed during the last sitting of the House of Assembly.

The Physiotherapy Act was amended in November 1998 to allow clients to have access to physiotherapists without a referral from physicians. The change is effective today.

"We believe this change will benefit the public," said Health Minister Jim Smith. "It will reduce delays in getting treatment and offer an alternative access point into the health care system."

The amendment was made in consultation with the Medical Society of Nova Scotia.

"We support this change and will continue to work with our colleagues in the physiotherapy profession to provide the best care and treatment for our patients," said Robert Mullan, president of the medical society.