Celebrating Local Health: Why Independent Physical Therapy Matters
- mkaple
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
You have more control over your health than you might realize. Many individuals assume they need to visit the hospital or corporate clinic recommended by their doctor, but this isn't necessarily true. In Ohio, direct access laws permit you to consult a physical therapist without needing a referral in most situations. This means you have the freedom to decide where to receive care.

At Rehab Associates, we’re proud to be an independent physical therapy practice rooted right here in our community. And choosing local care doesn’t just help you—it strengthens the entire community around you.
You Have a Choice
Doctors often refer patients to PT departments within their hospital system, but you are not required to go there. You can choose the clinic that best fits your needs, your schedule, and your goals.
By choosing an independent practice, you get the benefit of:
Personalized care that puts you first—not corporate quotas.
Faster access with flexible scheduling and less red tape.
Local investment, keeping healthcare dollars in your community.
Independent PT = Stronger Communities
Every visit to an independent clinic directly supports your local community. Instead of sending revenue into a large corporate system, your choice helps fund local jobs, school sponsorships, charity events, and wellness initiatives that make our neighborhoods healthier and stronger.
Direct Access in Ohio
Thanks to direct access laws in Ohio, you can start physical therapy without waiting for a doctor’s referral in most cases. That means faster treatment, quicker results, and fewer delays in your recovery. If your insurance does require a referral, our team can help you navigate the process easily.
Care Without Corporate Pressure
At large healthcare systems, therapists often juggle high-volume patient loads and corporate demands. At Rehab Associates, we measure success by your outcomes—not by numbers on a spreadsheet. Our focus is on helping you reduce pain, improve movement, and get back to living your life.
Celebrating Health, Together
By choosing independent physical therapy, you’re exercising your right to patient choice and helping preserve the diversity of healthcare in our community. You’re saying “yes” to care that puts people over profits—and that’s something worth celebrating!
At Rehab Associates, we’re honored to care for this community every day. Thank you for trusting us with your health and for supporting local, independent care.
Ready to take the next step? You don’t need a referral—schedule your appointment today and start your journey to better movement and health.
Got questions? We're happy to help. Contact our Newark-Heath office or our Dresden office to discuss the best option for your specific situation.