Are Knee Gel Injections Covered by Insurance and Medicare?

What are Knee Gel Injections?

Knee gel injections, also known as Viscosupplementation, are a common treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. They involve injecting a lubricating substance, like hyaluronic acid, into the knee joint to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Hyaluronic acid injections replenishes the joint’s natural lubricant. While effective, these injections aren’t a permanent solution and may need to be repeated. Potential side effects include temporary pain and swelling, but serious complications are rare.

The Cost of Knee Gel Injections

The cost of knee gel injections can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Geographic location: Costs can differ between regions and healthcare providers.
• Number of injections: A typical course of treatment involves multiple injections.
• Insurance coverage: Insurance plans have varying levels of coverage for this procedure.

Does Medicare Cover Knee Gel Injections?

Yes, Medicare covers knee gel injections for treating osteoarthritis if they are deemed medically necessary by your doctor. This includes coverage for the injections, as well as the evaluation and guidance imaging (such as fluoroscopy) used to ensure accurate placement of the gel.

Patients with Medicare Supplement plans may have little to no out-of-pocket costs. Always check with your healthcare provider and Medicare plan to confirm specific coverage details.

For help discovering your coverage options, reach out to our office.

Does Private Insurance Cover Knee Gel Injections?

Good news, we’re in network with many private insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Health Care and Humana Gold Plus.

Many private insurance plans cover knee gel injections, but coverage can vary widely. Factors that influence coverage include:

• Plan specifics: Different plans have different policies regarding coverage for this procedure.
• Medical necessity: Insurance providers sometimes require documentation of the severity of osteoarthritis and proof that other conservative treatments have been tried.
• Pre-authorization: Some plans may require pre-authorization before the procedure can be performed.

Knee Gel Injection Cost without Insurance

Depending on your location and options, the out of pocket costs for knee gel injections can range from around $1,000 to $2,500 for a series. Every patient and every insurance situation is unique so we offer a complimentary insurance review when you come to our office so you know exactly what your out of pocket costs may be before starting treatment.

The Joint Relief Institute offers monthly payment options (some with 0% financing options) so you have affordable options to relieve knee pain even without insurance.

Contact our office to get all of your options and get on the road to pain relief today!

Joint Relief Institute and Insurance Coverage

At the Joint Relief Institute, we understand the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare. We work with most major insurance providers, including Medicare. Our insurance specialists can quickly verify your coverage and answer any questions you may have.

Contact Us Today

To learn more about knee gel injections, their costs, and insurance coverage, please contact us:

• Chicago Office: (708) 722-7514
• Edina (Minneapolis) Office: (952) 214-4278

By understanding the costs and insurance coverage associated with knee gel injections, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.