Copays

[Guest guest]

I too would like to disagree with the notion that higher copays somehow

create value.

In my location, (West Central Ohio, 11% unemployment rate, farm community)),

a Medicare replacement provider to many of the retired government and

teachers now have one of 2 plans. One covers 98% of their visits, allowing

6-8 visits over a 10 week time frame, with the ability to request more

visits. Usually we are able to get 4-6 additional visits for a total of

10-14 visits over 16-20 time frame. The other has $100 co pay per visit.

This started in January 2010, and was increased to $150 per visit starting

Jan, 2011. How many Medicare replacement patients do you think are going

to even remotely think of paying $100 to $150 for every visit. I have had

2 over the past 14+ months for 1 visit. They were started on a home

program and worked into a wellness program that we offer, so we can at least

have continued contact with them, so they can exercise and try and work

through their home program, ROM, strength activity with ability to monitor

hem if needed. I don't care how much we consider ourselves 'specialists'

very few patients will consider us 'special enough' to pay $100-$150 per

visit, on a regular basis unles you have a niche market. I think hat

Kentucky has done is spectacular and am looking to try and figure out a way

to do the same in Ohio. Just have to wait until SB 5 dies down a little

bit.

Thank you,

Burkett, PT, DPT, MTC

Therapy and Wellness Solutions, Inc

Hardin Rehabilitation and Wellness Center

Kenton, OH