Insurance companies, and what they cover, are just about as varied as the stars in the sky or the sand on a beach. Every plan is unique to the person or family it covers. And in addition, understanding what is and isn’t covered on a person’s unique plan is about as easy as understanding the changes in the tax code year in and year out. So is your cold compression therapy covered? Short answer- it’s complicated.
It’s no wonder patients are often left scratching their heads wondering if a doctor-prescribed treatment plan will be covered. (Or worse, they refuse treatment out of fear they will be buried with out-of-pocket expenses when something isn’t covered.)
The short answer is insurance companies often do not cover this often medically-mandated therapy. And, this includes covering devices needed in therapy either during or after client sessions are concluded. Therapies like cold compression systems – for use during and after physical therapy sessions – are gaining acceptance among insurance carriers, especially on Workers’ Comp claims, however, there is still a long way to go until it is covered by most people’s insurance. Here are some steps to take if your insurance doesn’t cover this important therapy option:
Equipment Rental:
If a doctor instructs you to have cold compression therapy, you need to find a solution if insurance does not cover the prescription. Renting the equipment is a viable option that will lower your out-of-pocket expenses considerably. Many people will rent the equipment to enable them to continue the therapy at home, returning the equipment once healing is complete.
Purchasing Equipment:
Some clients decide they want to buy the equipment at the end of treatment or during treatment because they see the benefits to having cold compression therapy to help during all their training and athletic endeavors. Cold compression therapy certainly aids in the recovery and healing process post-injury, but clients see benefits in daily use as well. Talk with your physical therapist to see what they would recommend for you for your long-term care.
