What is Cash Based Physical Therapy?
You’ve probably heard about physical therapy clinics being “cash-based,” but what exactly does that mean? And should you only go to a PT clinic that accepts your insurance? Let’s break it down.
What Does “Cash-Based” Mean?
Don’t worry, “cash-based” doesn’t mean you need to pay in actual cash. It simply means that the clinic isn’t “in-network” with insurance providers. But that doesn’t mean you’re totally on your own when it comes to payments. At SCOR, we accept Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), and we can also help you submit a “Super Bill.” That way, you might get some reimbursement from your insurance through out-of-network benefits.
What About Insurance-Based Clinics?
If you have insurance, it might sound like a no-brainer to find a clinic that’s in-network. But here’s the thing—if you have a high-deductible plan, you’ll likely be paying out of pocket until you meet that deductible. That could take time, and you won’t even know what you owe until you get your final bill. And even after you hit your deductible, there are still co-pays, typically around $40 per session. Sure, that’s not awful, but it adds up quickly!
On top of that, because insurance companies reimburse clinics less and less each year, therapists have to juggle more patients to make ends meet. That means less one-on-one time with your PT. You may even end up working with an assistant instead of the primary therapist, just because they have too many people on their schedule. It can feel rushed and disconnected, which doesn’t always lead to the best care.
Why is SCOR Cash-Based?
At SCOR, we’re all about giving you the highest-quality care possible. Here’s why being cash-based helps us do that:
You get one-on-one time with a physical therapist during every session—no being passed off to an assistant.
We get you better, faster, with fewer visits per week.
Your treatment plan is completely customized to your specific goals—whether that’s getting back to your sport, staying active, or hitting a new personal record.
You can communicate with your therapist anytime between sessions if you have questions. No need to wait until your next appointment.
We set goals that go beyond just getting rid of your pain. We want to help you reach your long-term fitness and health goals, like getting stronger in the gym, running your fastest time, or staying active well into your later years.
Why It’s Worth It
Sure, cash-based PT might seem more expensive up front, but in the long run, the personalized care, faster progress, and focused attention you get at SCOR can make a world of difference. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter PT and you want a plan that’s tailored specifically to you, we’d love to chat.
Give us a call—we’re here to answer any questions and see if SCOR is the right fit for you!
