Getting to it from outside would not be an option because we are in a brick building. I was curious if others have had any reason to have to attend to the overflow drain on a simple bathtub set up, requiring removal of tiling or the panel front for a drop in bathtub with center drain. If there are serious considerations, I would discuss fixing the tub orientation with my contractor. If not, I will leave it along. Thanks.

Presumably, the overflow drain was installed properly, so you shouldn't worry about this. In 40 years of owning houses, I've never had a problem with the overflow drain. I did once help a neighbor who had a leak from an improperly installed overflow drain that was put in by a previous owner of highly questionable abilities, and we were able to fix it from the tub side without tearing anything out.

What you are considering is a major piece of rework in anticipation of a highly unlikely development years hence...when you may not even be living in the house or may want to remodel again, anyway. If you were to rip up this installation now, it would be a huge amount of work, and may create additional problems in the appearance of the tile unless everything is ripped out and you start from scratch. Please save your worrying for more likely problems.

Thank you, @kudzu9, that's very reassuring and clarifying.

You're welcome. I want remodels to not create future problems, too, but I think you'll be good here.

My drop in jetted tub is installed with the sloped end under the tub fill spout. It is on a tiled deck. is it possible for a plumber to reverse the tub?