Policy keeps changing on reimbursement for physical therapy services…lower rates, increased hassle factor in getting paid and increased cost-sharing with patients.  The WVPTA is working to improve the outcomes of the myriad of changes but the physical therapists and other office support staff needs to help patients understand the problems and engage them in data gathering and writing to the decision-makers.
 
The WVPTA has developed a Tool Kit for patients and physical therapists to use to advocate with the insurance industry and the WV Insurance Commissioner.  Resource articles, background information, sample letters and a survey are available.  The WVPTA encourages PT practices to utilize this information and set of tools.

High insurance copayments have made physical therapy too expensive for some patients.

Now PTs and patients are fighting back.

By Chris Hayhurst March 2012

Meryl Cadel just wants help. "What can you do for me?" she asks. "What can you do?" Cadel, age 59, has chronic back pain. Today, she says, cringing as she speaks, the pain is especially bad. But that's not her problem—or at least not the one that she's asking about.

Should a physical therapy session cost a patient as much as a visit to a neurosurgeon or other specialist?

Therapists think not.

They are backing proposals in several states to limit the amount insurers can require patients to pay for physical, occupational or speech therapy. Legislation is pending in Pennsylvania, Missouri and New York. Lawmakers in South Dakota and Kentucky have already passed