In this episode, Justin Carrier, PT, DPT, explores what Primary Care Physical Therapy truly means and why it represents a pivotal shift for the profession. Rather than functioning solely within a referral-based model, primary care physical therapy positions physical therapists as primary care providers for neuromusculoskeletal conditions—capable of evaluation, assessment, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and management without unnecessary gatekeeping. This model improves timely access, reduces downstream costs, and aligns care with evidence showing that early conservative management leads to better outcomes. A central focus of the discussion is APTA Utah’s recent legislative victory, which formally strengthened the role of physical therapists as primary care providers. The change removed key barriers that previously limited autonomous practice, allowing patients more direct access to PT services and clarifying the PT’s role within the healthcare system. The legislation addressed real problems: delays in care, increased healthcare spending, and unnecessary reliance on imaging, opioids, or specialist referrals for common musculoskeletal issues.
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Watch the Episode Here: Primary Care Physical Therapy
Listen to the Podcast Here: Primary Care Physical Therapy
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Primary Care Physical Therapy with Justin Carrier, PT, DPT
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Important Links
- Utah Physical Therapy Association – https://utahpt.org/
- American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) – https://www.apta.org/
- Legislative Bill for Primary Care PT in Utah – https://utahpt.org/legislation
- Medicare Pain Management Codes (G3003, G3004) – https://www.cms.gov/medicare/medicare-fee-for-service-payment/physicianfeesched/search
- Justin Carrier’s Contact Email: president@aptautah.org
About Justin Carrier
Justin Carrier, DPT, is a physical therapist, Associate Professor, and President of APTA Utah. He played a key role in Utah’s recent primary care legislative win and is focused on advancing physical therapy’s role in primary care, access, and future legislative progress across the state and nation. He believes that PTs and PTAs should be allowed to practice to the top of their training, and that scope should match that training.