With little visible progress being made on the budget, this week saw major policy items discussed.
The House Health Policy Committee met this week with the lengthiest agenda so far this year, across a range of health policy topics. They heard testimony on Senate Bill 144, which would allow patients, under specific circumstances, direct access to physical therapy services without a physician referral. Proponents contend the bill would improve access to care, reduce healthcare costs, and help Michigan retain physical therapy professionals. MSMS has worked closely with the Michigan Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association for several years to ensure robust patient safety guardrails and is neutral on the bill. A vote was not yet…