#United States #Downers Grove #ATI Physical Therapy #Musculoskeletal Care #Duke Clinical Research

Reducing Healthcare Costs with No Copay Physical Therapy

In a groundbreaking study conducted by ATI Physical Therapy in collaboration with the Duke Clinical Research Institute, compelling evidence has emerged showing that a no copay program for physical therapy can significantly decrease subsequent healthcare costs for musculoskeletal conditions. The research, published on October 24 in the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Journal, illustrates how removing financial barriers for patients not only leads to faster access to care but also results in lower rates of additional medical interventions such as imaging, injections, and surgeries.

Study Insights

The findings detail that, when examining healthcare episode service use, patients in the no copay program experienced a notable reduction in the utilization of various services. Specifically, those enrolled in the ATI no copay initiative exhibited:

• - A 7% reduction in the need for imaging.
• - A 16% decrease in the rates of surgeries or injections.
• - An impressive 57% drop in outpatient physician services when compared to patients adhering to traditional healthcare pathways.

Moreover, when juxtaposed with physical therapy episodes beyond the no copay framework, patients still benefited from a 9% lower incidence of imaging services and a 38% reduced need for physician consultations.

The Importance of Access

Chuck Thigpen, Chief Clinical Strategy Officer for ATI Physical Therapy and co-author of the study, underscores that this model of care significantly removes obstacles such as patient out-of-pocket expenses. He states, "Our research amplifies existing literature indicating that early physical therapy access can diminish the reliance on opioids, unnecessary imaging, and surgical interventions, thereby ultimately reducing healthcare costs for both patients and self-funded employers."

The inception of this innovative program traces back to the autumn of 2018, when ATI partnered with a large, self-insured employer in the Midwest. This initiative aimed to encourage enhanced access to physical therapy services for over 50,000 beneficiaries by eliminating copayment requirements. The outcomes have been remarkable, with more than 70% of people utilizing the no copay service entering physical therapy on the first day of treatment.

Implications for Healthcare Policies

The principal investigator, Trevor Lentz of Duke University, emphasizes, "This study provides crucial evidence that policy alterations concerning access and financial obligations can facilitate early, guided conservative care for musculoskeletal issues." He advocates for healthcare payers and systems to adopt similar strategies that empower patients in their healthcare journeys. Given the escalating costs related to treating musculoskeletal conditions, these findings present an urgent call to action for industry stakeholders.

Conclusion

The results from the collaborative study by ATI Physical Therapy and the Duke Clinical Research Institute illuminate a promising approach to managing musculoskeletal disorders through innovative financial models. By fostering a healthcare environment that prioritizes accessibility and affordability, patients can expect improved care outcomes without the burden of additional financial strain. This initiative aligns with a broader vision for transforming healthcare delivery, where early intervention becomes the norm rather than the exception.

As a leader in outpatient rehabilitation services with many clinics nationwide, ATI remains steadfastly committed to providing clinical excellence and innovative care that leads patients back to a healthier life. Moreover, the DCRI continues to push boundaries in clinical research, demonstrating their dedication to innovative solutions in healthcare that can enhance systems worldwide.