Benefit Solutions for Brokers

Direct access agreements are a proven solution for reducing rising musculoskeletal (MSK) care costs for self-insured employers. ATI collaborates with health benefits brokers and consultants to improve access to early physical therapy—helping reduce reliance on more invasive and costly treatment options

Why Brokers Work with ATI

At ATI Physical Therapy, we understand the unique position brokers hold, advising clients on smart, efficient healthcare choices. Our broker solutions are designed to make that job easier. With a network of clinics across the country, consistent clinical protocols, and outcome-focused care, ATI helps brokers confidently deliver value to their clients.

Whether your clients are looking to minimize lost time, improve return-to-work rates, or reduce workers’ compensation expenses, we have solutions tailored to their needs. Our programs include early intervention services, injury prevention, return-to-work strategies and more, all supported by real-time reporting and experienced clinical teams.

We’re committed to working collaboratively with brokers, offering white-glove service, transparent communication, and a track record of measurable results. With ATI, you gain a reliable partner who is just as invested in your client’s workforce health as you are.

The MSK Problem

Healthcare costs—particularly musculoskeletal (MSK) spend—continue to climb year over year in the United States. Self-funded employers are feeling the financial pressure, while benefits leaders are challenged to contain costs without sacrificing the value and competitiveness of their programs.

*Dieleman JL, Cao J, Chapin A, et al. US Healthcare Spending by Payer and Health Condition, 1996-2016, JAMA. 2020. 2020;323(9):863-884. Soi:10.1001/jama.2020.0734

#1
Driver of overall healthcare costs*
50%
Adults affected by MSK pain
$380B
Total annual U.S. healthcare spend on MSK conditions*
$980B
Cost of MSK treatment and lost wages

The MSK Solution

A direct contract with ATI Physical Therapy for outpatient rehabilitation services provides self-insured clients with a high-quality, cost-effective alternative to traditional network access. By leveraging our MSK expertise to shift care earlier in the pathway, ATI is redefining how MSK care begins—and it’s delivering results. On average, clients have achieved a 26% reduction in overall MSK spend, or $1,543 in savings per patient.

“ATI has consistently delivered patient satisfaction and cost savings using their PT first approach for musculoskeletal related pain.” – Director of Benefits

  • Direct Access (“Skip the Line”)

    Members can start physical therapy without a physician referral, eliminating a major access barrier.

  • Smarter Utilization

    Guided care pathways reduce avoidable primary care, urgent care, and ER visits—supporting MSK cost containment.

  • Proven Quality of Care

    ATI has been CMS-rated “Excellent” five years in a row, delivering consistent, evidence-based outcomes.

  • Flexible Care Options

    In-clinic treatment and virtual MSK / tele-rehabilitation options tailored to each employer’s needs.

  • Removing Cost Barriers to Early Care

    Reduced or $0 co-pays encourage early PT, helping prevent chronic, high-cost conditions.

  • No Benefit Disruption. Simplified Administration.

    No narrow networks or benefit plan changes. Services are directly billed to the plan sponsor, reducing administrative complexity while improving cost visibility and plan oversight.

Understand your goals and challenges

A Simple, Proven Path to Reducing MSK Costs

We collaborate with brokers and stakeholders to assess workforce needs, MSK cost drivers, and opportunities to improve access, outcomes, and overall benefits strategy.

Build the right MSK solution.

We tailor a flexible program centered on early access to physical therapy—combining in-clinic, virtual, and digital solutions to ensure employees receive the right care at the right time in the right setting.

Launch, support, and optimize.

ATI leads implementation—including flexible rollout options—while providing ongoing reporting, engagement support, and performance tracking to drive utilization and measurable MSK savings.

Ready to Transform MSK Spend?

Ready to help your clients lower MSK spend while helping their employees and covered dependents recover faster? Schedule a consultation now.