Dear APTA Massachusetts Members,
Last month, a Boston Globe article highlighted an unfortunate situation in which a
college student seeking physical therapy unknowingly incurred a $4,500 bill due to
receiving care at a hospital-affiliated outpatient facility rather than an independent clinic.
This case underscores critical issues in healthcare transparency, insurance complexity,
and patient education—challenges impacting patients and providers.
As advocates for accessible, high-quality physical therapy, we recognize the importance
of ensuring patients fully understand their benefits and financial responsibilities before
initiating care. While hospitals provide essential services, site-of-care pricing disparities
often lead to confusion and financial strain for patients.
Key Takeaways for Our Members:
Transparency Matters: Patients should be informed upfront about the potential cost of
physical therapy services. Clear communication is crucial.
Advocacy for Improved Payment: This case reinforces the need for legislative efforts
ensuring fair reimbursement for PT services regardless of setting. Payment to private
practice clinics in Massachusetts is unsustainably low. As the cost of rendering services
increases, payment must improve to ensure necessary access to physical therapy
services.
Educating Patients: As clinicians, we can help patients navigate their insurance
coverage by encouraging them to verify benefits and ask detailed billing questions
before treatment begins.
APTA Massachusetts remains committed to advocating for fair, transparent, and patient-
centered healthcare policies. If you have experienced similar challenges in your
practice, we encourage you to share your insights as we continue working toward
meaningful reforms.
