Healthcare experts predict that virtual physical therapy, or Telerehabilitation, of musculoskeletal conditions will become increasingly popular and will likely comprise a significant portion of telehealth services delivered in the future.
How Virtual Physical Therapy Can Help Reduce Costs for Employers
According to the 2022 Castlight Workforce Health Index, treatment and surgeries for musculoskeletal conditions account for over 15% of medical expenses companies cover yearly. However, only 11% of companies offer some form of treatment specifically for musculoskeletal disorders, which often leads to employees putting off seeking care and racking up higher costs down the road when their condition worsens.
While in-person visits should still be an option for employees, virtual physical therapy provides a convenient and cost-effective alternative to help more people get the care they need. Sessions may be available on weekends or after work hours, when most in-person therapy facilities are closed.
What Companies Should Consider
When companies are considering virtual physical therapy, they should consider various factors. For example, is a co-pay necessary, and how much would it be? Insurance companies frequently classify physical therapists as specialists, leading to more expensive visits.
Another key question is how easy is virtual physical therapy to access? Employees may be less likely to use it if it’s not readily available. It’s also important to determine how easily records can be integrated with those from other healthcare providers. Many patients do not attend all of their appointments and many give up after just a few sessions. At-home or virtual care allows for easier rescheduling of missed appointments.
Employers also should consider what devices will be used to deliver the therapy and if any financial incentives will be offered to engage employees.
The trend toward using virtual physical therapy is likely to continue to grow as more companies become aware of how debilitating musculoskeletal conditions can be and the high costs associated with its treatment. While it gets employees the help they need it also can avoid costly surgeries and other medical procedures.
For more Employee Benefits information, contact INSURICA today.
Copyright © 2022 Smarts Publishing This is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.
About the Author
Share This Story
Related Blogs
Is One Massive Claim to Blame? What is the Real Result of My Sky-High EMOD?
Many have been there staring at a workers’ compensation insurance proposal, overwhelmed by a premium so steep it feels like a punishment. The explanation seems simple: one big, catastrophic claim has thrown your experience modification factor (EMOD) into chaos, leaving you with an astronomical bill.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Educational Institutions
Workers’ compensation is a vital component of employee benefits for educational institutions. It provides coverage for workplace injuries or illnesses, ensuring that employees receive the medical care and support they need while protecting schools from costly lawsuits. For administrators, understanding how workers’ compensation works and tailoring it to the unique environment of schools is essential for maintaining a safe and supportive workplace.
Winter Weather Oil and Gas Safety Tips
To prevent injuries and illness as a result of winter weather, it’s important to learn about the causes, symptoms, and safety considerations to take so you are prepared to handle winter’s worst. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is no exact temperature at which the environment becomes hazardous. Instead, factors such as low temperatures, wind speed, and wetness contribute to cold-induced injuries and illness.