The scenerio you sketch is similar to the one in Holland in the 1960-70īs.
Australia was way ahead with free access long ago ( 70īs?)
Holland introduced free access in 2004.
Free access meaning that you are free to go to any physiotherapist without a doctors referral and with payment (by the national health systems or private insurances) guaranteed.

What made it change in Holland?
....in my opinion the following things happened (but not overnight)....

1. the fact that in general the population was becoming more informed ( even before internet, by means of patient groups and television programmes)
2. doctors slowly became informed about what we do...
how?
a. by getting back to them straight away and informing them that you, after assessing, do not agree with their treatment suggestions and are planning something else. Explain why and in my case, they always agreed...... often saying... we do not know much about your profession.......
b. by being prepared to "fight with your knowledge" by writing letters about your treatment, describing it, describing results etc etc
c. informing your patients, with fact sheets, writing for journals for the general public etc
3. by generally not accepting the "assistants rol" the doctor has put you in, but showing you are a true health professional with your own education and qualities.

good luck

esther de ru