However, it is important to be able to identify red flags for serious pathologies in that one may more realistically encounter in a physical therapy outpatient setting and may require an immediate referral. There are various pathologies to consider in the examination involving the lower extremity. In any case, if serious pathology is suspected, it is most prudent to refer the patient appropriately to a qualified medical practitioner. Based on the findings, a clinical decision should be made to either treat the patient, refer the patient to an appropriate healthcare practitioner, or initiate both treatment and referral ( 3). Physical therapists should identify red flag symptoms and signs indicating possible pathological condition(s). In addition to direct access, in an age when at least one of four Americans have multiple chronic medical conditions, it is vital to be able to perform a comprehensive examination, which includes a thorough patient history, systems review, and objective test and measures ( 2). In 2017, over 65% of physical therapy providers are treating via direct access in United States that allow unrestricted access ( 1). Physical therapists can be frequently a patient’s initial encounter after a lower extremity injury, as access to physical therapy services have become readily available without a physician’s referral. If serious pathology is suspected, it is most prudent to refer the patient appropriately to a qualified medical practitioner. Based on the findings, a clinical decision should be made to either treat the patient, refer the patient to an appropriate healthcare practitioner, or initiate both treatment and referral. In addition to direct access, in an age when at least one of four Americans have multiple chronic medical conditions, it is vital to be able to perform a comprehensive examination, which includes a thorough patient history, systems review, and objective test and measures. In 2017, over 65% of physical therapy providers are treating via direct access in United States that allow unrestricted access.
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