JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
The 359th Medical Operations Squadron Physical Therapy office is now offering direct access physical therapy to active-duty members Mondays from 7:15-8:45 a.m. at the Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Clinic.
Active-duty members with acute musculoskeletal injuries, such as knee sprain, ankle sprain or back pain that have occurred within the week can walk in for care. The goal of this service is to increase patient's access to care.
The program serves active-duty members, including pilots, who have a primary care manager located at the JBSA-Randolph clinic.
In the past, the process required a member to make an appointment with their PCM before being referred to physical therapy. The new direct access program does not require an appointment.
"With this program, the active-duty patient will be able walk in to our clinic Monday morning, we can evaluate them just like we would if the PCM would refer them and get them started right away," Maj. Becky Azama, 359th Medical Group physical therapist said.
"Physical therapists are licensed providers who provide care for patients to reduce pain and restore mobility," said Azama. "This facility primarily treats patients with musculoskeletal injuries."
According to Azama, the walk-in process will not affect the patient care process.
"The evaluation process would essentially be the same, we go through a normal physical therapy evaluation where we take a look at the affected area or the involved area to make sure nothing else is going on," Azama said. "We would either give them exercises to do at home or we could give them instructions on how to set up appointments with the technicians for scheduled treatments and follow up with the patient."
"I injured my back last week and it was convenient knowing I don't need a referral and I can walk in and get a plan for care," said Senior Airman Adan Garcia, 359th Medical Operations Squadron Pediatric Clinic aerospace medical technician, said. "Right at 7:15 a.m., they opened the door and I walked in and I was seen within 10 minutes."
One physical therapy provider will be available during the walk-in hours and will be able to order imaging and dispense medicine if needed.
"Best case scenario, we would like to see maybe three or more patients coming through the door every Monday. The hope is that active-duty members feel like they can come and see us if they have a musculoskeletal issue and address their concerns," Azama said.
For more information on the direct access program, call the clinic at 652-3137.