10 Lessons in 10 Years: How Confluent Health Has Made People Stronger

We’re counting down the days to our official birthday, ringing in a decade of dedication to transforming healthcare and empowering patients. As we reflect on the lessons that have shaped our journey and helped move forward the musculoskeletal (MSK) health space. Over the past 10 years, we have expanded our national footprint to over 1,500 sites of care, grown to over 8,000 employees across the nation, and touched millions of lives. These are 10 key lessons that have driven our mission to make people and businesses stronger.?

1. Patient-Centered Care Is Paramount?

The patient is at the heart of everything we do. We’ve learned that focusing on the individual needs of each patient—acknowledging their physical, emotional, and social dimensions—leads to better outcomes. Our shift toward a holistic care model, including our PT-first approach, has allowed us to build more effective care pathways that lower costs and improve quality of life. In fact, a PT-first pathway can cut the care timeline to one to three months and cost just a few thousand dollars.?

2. Early Intervention Saves Lives and Money?

The earlier a patient receives care, the better the outcome. Over the past decade, research has continually confirmed that starting with physical therapy not only prevents costly surgeries but also reduces opioid reliance. This lesson has been foundational in our promotion of the PT-first model, which reduces the complexity and duration of treatment, helping patients recover faster and avoid unnecessary ER visits and hospital stays.?

3. Invest in People, Not Just Processes?

Our greatest strength lies in our people. From physical therapists to administrative staff, the continuous education and development of our team members has been instrumental in delivering the highest quality care. We’ve learned that upskilling clinicians leads to better patient care and ensures that our industry evolves with the latest evidence-based practices.?

At Confluent Health, therapists are encouraged to pursue board certifications in specialties that interest them during their tenure. With more than 65% of Confluent Health’s therapists board-certified , the company boasts the highest number of board-certified specialists among all healthcare organizations in the United States.?

4. Innovation in Care Delivery Is Essential?

Ten years ago, care was often confined to clinics. Today, our hybrid care model allows patients to receive physical therapy in clinics, at home, or virtually—wherever is most convenient and effective. This flexibility has not only increased patient engagement but also reduced the cost of care by 42%. The future of healthcare lies in adaptable, tech-enabled solutions that fit patient needs.?

5. Whole-Person Health Matters?

We’ve learned that MSK conditions aren’t just physical—they affect every aspect of a person’s well-being. Acknowledging the biopsychosocial aspects of pain, we’ve integrated mental health support and education into our treatment plans. By addressing mental and emotional factors like fear, anxiety, and depression, we help patients achieve long-lasting recovery and prevent future injuries.?

At the recent KHC Annual Conference, Dr. Stephen Clark, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, Clinical Innovations Director, and Brooks Newman , Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, delivered a presentation on the pivotal role of MSK health in value-based whole-person care.?

6. Partnerships Strengthen the Industry?

Our growth and success are thanks in part to the powerful partnerships we’ve forged across the country. The Confluent Health family is proudly composed of 50+ integral Partner Brands. Collaborating with healthcare providers, payers, and employers has allowed us to scale our impact and innovate faster. These partnerships have been vital in pushing the industry toward more efficient and patient-centered MSK care models.?

7. Reducing Barriers to Access Improves Outcomes?

One of the most significant barriers to effective care is access. Whether due to cost, location, or long wait times, patients often face challenges that delay treatment. Over the past decade, we’ve worked to break down these barriers through telehealth, direct access to physical therapy, and policy advocacy for lower co-pays and better reimbursement models, making quality care more affordable and accessible.?

From an ER nurse to a telehealth pioneer, our very own CEO, Dr. Kristi Henderson , DNP, FAAN, has remained committed to her mission of enhancing the healthcare experience for patients and providers. Dr. Henderson serves as the Immediate Past Board Chair of the American Telemedicine Association, an organization committed to ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and appropriate care when and where they need it.?

8. Technology Enhances Human Connection?

While technology has expanded access to care, we’ve learned that it doesn’t replace the human touch—it enhances it. By integrating digital tools like virtual consultations, our clinicians are able to stay connected with patients, monitor their progress remotely, and personalize treatments. This technology has led to greater adherence to care plans and improved patient outcomes.?

Expanded in 2023, the mōviHealth platform enables our physical therapists to create personalized treatment plans that use in-person care, virtual care, and digital solutions to manage MSK conditions in the best way for each individual. This approach delivers better engagement and better outcomes, leading employers and health plans to risk-adjusted cost reductions of 30% to 50% on MSK spend.?

9. Workplace Wellness Prevents Injuries?

Preventing injuries before they happen is one of the most effective ways to lower healthcare costs and boost employee productivity. Our workplace wellness programs from Fit For Work and WorkSTEPS include ergonomic assessments, injury prevention training, and on-site therapy services. Since 1998, these services have helped countless businesses reduce MSK injuries and keep their employees healthy and active.?

10. Leadership in Advocacy Is Crucial?

We’ve learned that transforming healthcare requires more than just providing excellent care—it also means advocating for policies that support sustainable healthcare models. Recently, Redbud Physical Therapy, a Member of the Confluent Health Family, hosted Congressman Kevin Hern to discuss the SAFE Act—a key piece of legislation aimed at improving access to preventative care and reducing fall risks for seniors. By providing a free annual fall risk assessment from a physical or occupational therapist, the SAFE Act helps address the critical issue of falls in older adults, ultimately lowering healthcare costs and opioid use.?

Dr. Janie Taylor , PT, DPT, OCS, Vice President of Clinical Operations, submitted a letter to the editor of Tulsa World advocating for the legislation.?

As we look back on the past decade, we are proud of how far we’ve come, but even more excited about the future. Our commitment to innovation, education, and patient-centered care will continue to drive our mission forward as we work to shape a stronger, healthier tomorrow.?