6 Client Benefits of Cash-Based Physical Therapy

6 Client Benefits of Cash-Based Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is being chosen more and more as the front line treatment option for those with musculoskeletal pain, physical impairments or disabilities as well as those simply looking to improve their physical abilities. Since the transition to the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) educational requirement, physical therapists are being utilized as independent healthcare providers in an ever-widening breadth of settings. One of these such settings is cash-based private practice.

What is Cash Based Physical Therapy?

Cash-based (or “out of network”) physical therapy is a type of physical therapy that is paid for directly by the patient, without going through insurance or third-party payers. Cash-based physical therapy has been gaining popularity in recent years due to the many benefits it offers. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of cash-based physical therapy.

More personalized care

One of the biggest benefits of cash-based physical therapy is that it allows for more personalized care. When a physical therapist is paid by insurance, they are often under pressure to see more clients in a shorter amount of time. This can lead to a rushed treatment plan and a lack of attention to individual needs. With cash-based physical therapy, the physical therapist can focus on the specific needs of each client and develop a customized treatment plan to help them achieve their goals. Keep in mind: the physical therapist works for whoever pays them, and in the case of insurance-based clinics that’s the insurance company. In cash-based clinics the PT works for the client that pays them.

Flexibility in scheduling

Cash-based physical therapy also provides more flexibility in scheduling. Clients can often schedule appointments more easily and at times that are convenient for them. This can be especially beneficial for patients with busy schedules who may have difficulty finding time for appointments during normal business hours at a traditional clinic.

Improved quality of care

When physical therapists are not constrained by insurance requirements, they can focus on providing the best possible care for their clients. This can include using the latest techniques and equipment, spending more time with patients, and being more responsive to their needs. Since PTs that run cash-based clinics aren’t focused on how many units they bill or if a particular insurance plan covers the treatment they are doing they are free to treat the individual and not the insurance plan. 

Faster recovery times

Because cash-based physical therapy is more personalized and allows for more focused attention, along with the clients investment in their health, clients may experience faster recovery times. This is because the treatment plan is tailored specifically to the individual's needs and goals (versus what the insurance company determines the clients needs are) which can lead to more effective treatment and faster progress.

Cost-effective

While cash-based physical therapy may seem more expensive at first glance, it can actually be cost-effective in the long run. Because clients are receiving more personalized care and are more likely to experience faster recovery times, they may require fewer sessions overall. Additionally, they may be able to avoid the high deductibles and co-pays associated with insurance-based physical therapy. AND you can use your FSA/HSA to pay for cash-based PT services.

More autonomy and control

Clients who choose cash-based physical therapy have more autonomy and control over their treatment. They can choose their physical therapist, the frequency of appointments, and the specific goals they want to achieve. This can lead to a greater sense of empowerment and engagement in the rehabilitation process. Additionall, if you want to work on multiple body parts, want to take your fitness to the next level or work on other health/wellness goals, you have the freedom to do so (insurance companies deem all of that as “not medically necessary” so they will not reimburse. 

In conclusion, cash-based physical therapy offers many benefits to patients. From more personalized care and flexibility in scheduling to faster recovery times and cost-effectiveness, it is a great option for those looking for high-quality rehabilitation treatment. If you are considering physical therapy, be sure to explore all your options, including cash-based physical therapy.

Thanks for reading!

Dr. Greg