Patients in Belgium with mild symptoms, such as back pain, will soon be able to visit physiotherapists without a doctor’s prescription, starting next year, announced Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke on Saturday.
The minister made the announcement during the national congress of AXXON, the professional association for physiotherapists. He also revealed plans to allow video consultations, or “teletherapy”, beginning 1 January 2026.
Currently, a medical prescription is required to book a physiotherapy appointment. However, the minister noted that, in practice, patients often seek physiotherapy care directly. “We sought input from the sector, and physiotherapists responded positively,” a spokesperson for Vandenbroucke’s office explained.
Regarding teletherapy, it will be offered with the physiotherapist’s suggestion and the patient’s consent. This option allows patients to apply therapy at home at their convenience, enhancing autonomy. A teleconsultation will last as long as an in-person session, with no changes to co-payment costs or insurance reimbursements.
The plan will be implemented in two phases. The first phase, in 2026, will focus on patients with mild symptoms. At a later stage, patients with more severe conditions may also access the service. However, prescriptions for some physiotherapy treatments will not be entirely abolished.
Both measures were approved by the Council of Ministers last Friday.
