Tricare now covers innovative non-surgical treatments.
The physicians at SDOMG have been honored to serve our military personnel for decades. Our passion is to help our armed forces members deal with chronic orthopedic issues, many of which have arisen due to their service in the military. Recently, Tricare insurance has agreed to reimburse for Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy for military members and their dependents who may be dealing with knee or elbow pain.
*Knee OA and Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
What is Tricare?
Tricare combines the healthcare resources of the military with a network of civilian health care providers and institutions. This allows military service members as well as their family members to receive high quality healthcare services.
What is Platelet Rich Plasma?
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a concentration of platelets contained in a small volume of plasma which has been obtained from a patient’s own blood. The PRP solution contains several growth factors which initiates a sustained healing process. Platelet rich plasma and other cell therapies are administered by physicians who are board-certified in orthopedic care and specialize in Regenerative Medicine. Regenerative Medicine is a new field of medicine that is based on the premise that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, largely a result of having platelets and stem cells.
The use of PRP for osteoarthritis and tendon injuries has been shown to be safe and effective. In fact, dozens of clinical studies now show that PRP is more effective and longer lasting than steroid or hyaluronic acid gel injections. And for many of our patients it has offered years of pain relief.
Big Win for Regenerative Medicine
This announcement is a huge win for the entire field of regenerative medicine, as it means the military realizes the benefits of Regenerative Medicine. This is the reason they now offer it to our nation’s heroes.
PRP Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis
Because of the high number of military veterans with knee osteoarthritis, Tricare currently only covers PRP treatment for this particular condition. It will be interesting to see if the military begins to cover additional regenerative medicine treatments as they start to see the positive outcomes which are likely to come with those dealing with such issues.
Requirements for Tricare Coverage for Knee Osteoarthritis
PRP treatment may be performed on military personnel and their dependents who are dealing with knee osteoarthritis. Please reach out to San Diego OrthoBiologics Medical Group to schedule your appointment with one of our board-certified physicians. They will conduct a thorough examination of your condition and determine if you are a candidate for PRP therapy.
We Owe A Debt of Gratitude to Our Military Personnel
At SDOMG we always want our military service members who come to our clinic to know that we value their contributions to society. We truly believe they are heroes. Those who serve in the military have made great sacrifice on a personal, emotional and physical level. Often it takes a great toll on the body as well.
If you are dealing with any orthopedic concerns please schedule an appointment with one of our physicians. We would be honored to help you on your journey to a life free of pain.
Please contact us today, if we can be of service to you.
Phone: 760-909-2355
Email: [email protected]