We are thrilled to share the latest op-ed from Dr. Kristi Henderson, DNP, FAAN, CEO of Confluent Health, recently published in Healthcare Business Today. Titled “Rewiring the MSK Care Pathway for a Healthier Future, ” her piece underscores the urgent need to overhaul the traditional MSK care model.
Drawing from her extensive experience in healthcare innovation, Kristi outlines a path toward a PT-first approach, advocating for a system that prioritizes patient outcomes, reduces costs, and minimizes the reliance on opioids and invasive procedures.
Key takeaways from the op-ed include:
- The Problem with the Current MSK Care Model
- The existing pathways often lead to delayed care, unnecessary imaging, and excessive surgical interventions.
- Patients frequently experience fragmented care, resulting in higher costs and prolonged pain.
- The Case for PT-First Pathways
- Evidence supports physical therapy as a highly effective, non-invasive solution for many MSK conditions.
- A PT-first approach can reduce surgical costs by 29% and overall care costs by 58%.
- Integrating Technology and Hybrid Care
- By combining virtual and in-person physical therapy, Confluent Health has seen a 16% increase in patient engagement and a 42% reduction in the cost of care.
- Leveraging technology enables broader access to care, ensuring patients receive timely and effective treatment.
- Policy and Payer Support
- Kristi highlights the need for policy reforms to lower barriers to accessing physical therapy.
- She calls for value-based payment models that incentivize better outcomes and align with a PT-first approach.
Read the full op-ed on Healthcare Business Today to explore Kristi’s comprehensive roadmap for a healthier future in MSK care: https://www.healthcarebusinesstoday.com/rewiring-msk-care-pathway-musculoskeletal-health/