Letter to the APTA Board Regarding Restrictions on Patient Access to Non-System Providers
To: The Board of Directors, American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)

From: [Your Name/Organization]

Date: December 9, 2023

Subject: Concerns Regarding Patient Access and Conflicts of Interest

Dear APTA Board Members,

I am writing to express my deep concern about the growing trend of large hospital systems restricting their patients' access to physical therapy providers outside their own network. This practice not only limits patient choice and access to quality care, but it also directly contradicts principle seven of the APTA Code of Ethics, which states:

"The physical therapist has a responsibility to advocate for optimal patient care, which includes ensuring that patients have access to the most appropriate and qualified provider, regardless of setting or affiliation."
It has come to my attention that some APTA Board members are employed by these very same hospital systems that are actively restricting patient access. This raises serious concerns about potential conflicts of interest. How can these members effectively advocate for the best interests of the broader physical therapy community when they are simultaneously benefiting from a system that actively undermines patient choice and access to care?

The APTA has a long and proud history of advocating for patients and ensuring their access to the highest quality physical therapy services. This commitment is enshrined in our Code of Ethics and serves as the foundation of our profession. However, the current trend of restricted access directly contradicts these core values and threatens the very foundation of our profession.

I urge the APTA Board to take immediate action to address this issue. This could include:

Issuing a strong statement condemning the practice of restricting patient access.
Investigating the extent of this issue and identifying the hospital systems involved.
Developing clear guidelines for APTA members who are employed by these systems, ensuring that they do not engage in any practices that limit patient access or violate the Code of Ethics.
Considering the removal of any Board members who are employed by systems that restrict patient access, as their presence creates a clear conflict of interest.
The APTA has a responsibility to protect the interests of its members and, most importantly, the patients we serve. We cannot stand by while patients are denied access to essential healthcare services. I urge the APTA Board to take immediate action to address this critical issue and ensure that all patients have access to the high-quality physical therapy care they deserve.

Sincerely,

[Your Name/Organization]