Belgium to allow direct access to physical therapists
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In Belgium, people with mild complaints like back pain, sprains, or tennis elbow will be able to visit a physical therapist, known as a kinesist, without a doctor’s referral starting next year.
The federal council of ministers approved this change, which aims to reduce pressure on general practitioners and make care more accessible. Currently, patients must first see a doctor to receive a prescription before receiving reimbursement for physical therapy.
Physical therapists will assess whether a patient’s condition is safe to treat directly, and they will inform the patient’s doctor about the treatment. If the kinesist determines the patient needs further medical attention, they will refer them to a physician to maintain quality of care. The number of therapy sessions people can receive directly will be limited to seven per condition each year.
The Federal Public Service Health will maintain a list of qualified physical therapists available for direct access on the website of the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (RIZIV). The proposal still requires review by the Council of State before it takes effect on January 1, 2027.
