Background: The efficiency and effectiveness of multiple physical therapy care delivery models can be measured using the value-based care paradigm. Entering physical therapy through direct access can decrease health-care utilization and improve patient outcomes. Limited evidence exists which compares direct access physical therapy to referral using the value-based care paradigm specific to cervical spine radiculopathy. Case Description: The patient was a 39-year-old woman who presented to physical therapy through physician referral with the diagnoses of acute cervical radiculopathy. The patient was evaluated, provided guideline adherent treatment and discharged with a home exercise program. Sixteen months from being discharged, the same patient returned through direct access due to an acute onset of cervical spine symptoms and was evaluated and provided treatment that same morning. Outcomes: Direct access physical therapy saved the patient and third-party payer $434.30 and $3264.75 respectively. A 5×'s higher efficiency per visit and a 6.2×'s higher value in reducing disability was demonstrated when the patient accessed physical therapy directly. Physician referral and direct access entry pathways demonstrated neck disability index improvements of 6% and 16%, respectively. Discussion: This case report describes a clinical example of previous research that demonstrates improved cost efficiency, outcomes, and increased value with a patient who presented to physical therapy with cervical radiculopathy through two different access to care models. The results of this case demonstrate a clinical example of the use of the value-based care paradigm in comparing value and efficiency of two access to care models in a patient with cervical radiculopathy without other neurological deficits.
Keywords: Alternative care models; cost utilization; neck pain; outcomes; quality.