Regenerative medicine. This is the term used to describe regenerative medicine, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), regenerative medicine, and regenerative tissue therapy. This form of therapy has the potential to assist in the recovery and regeneration of tissue for certain injuries and medical conditions. From osteoarthritis and torn ligaments to hair regrowth and rejuvenated skin, regenerative medicine is being used to help improve the lives of people in many different situations. However, people still question why this form of therapy is not covered by insurance companies.
With medical advancements for the use of regenerative medicine and PRP therapy, this form of therapy continues to make progress with the medical conditions it can improve. As more research and more clinical trials are being conducted, the closer this therapy gets to finding its way into the realm of covered procedures. Unfortunately, there is still a tremendous gap between discovery and full coverage by insurance companies regardless of the countless benefits it has been shown to have on thousands of patients who are willing to pay for this therapy. Still, the distance between full coverage and therapy seems to be reducing, and it is only a matter of time before it is part of full coverage due to the extensive research.
There could be several reasons why insurance companies do not cover regenerative medicine therapy. Regenerative medicine therapy, in essence, is not a recent discovery, as it has been around since the 1970s to help people with bone marrow transplants for conditions like leukemia and sickle cell anemia, which is a surgical procedure that some traditional insurance companies may cover.
Unfortunately, non-surgical regenerative medicine therapy and PRP injections are not covered because insurance companies consider it to be “experimental” based on what seems to be a lack of evidence on certain procedures by the FDA. However, most “experimental” therapies are conducted during clinical trials, and we are not conducting clinical trials. In fact, we offer highly-effective regenerative medicine therapy to patients who qualify after a thorough medical examination. Keep in mind that this therapy is FDA cleared and it is not available to everybody.
What does this mean for you?
What this means for you is that although some insurance companies may cover the initial cost of the consultation or examination, insurance will not cover the cost of regenerative medicine at most clinics. Many of our patients take advantage of financing programs that can help with covering most procedures.
How much does regenerative medicine cost?
- The cost per session will greatly depend on the following:
- number of therapies
- severity and extent of medical condition
- length of time with problem
- number of areas to improve
