For countless Americans—and even patients beyond our borders—getting a joint replacement surgery can feel like an uphill battle. Between navigating insurance denials, high out-of-pocket costs, and frustrating waitlists, many delay the care they desperately need, often at the expense of their health.
The Impact of Insurance Denials and Costs in the U.S.
Delays in joint replacement surgery are all too common in the U.S., where even those with insurance aren’t always guaranteed approval for their procedures. According to a 2023 Commonwealth Fund Health Care Affordability Survey, nearly 60% of insured patients who faced an insurance denial said it caused a delay in care, and nearly half reported that their health conditions worsened as a result (WHYY).
Similarly, a KFF survey found that 26% of consumers had a health claim denial that led to delayed care, and 24% ultimately didn’t get the care they needed at all. Of those denied, a quarter reported that their physical or mental health declined because of it (healthinsurance.org).
Cost is another major barrier. The Federal Reserve reported that in 2023, 27% of American adults skipped medical treatment because they couldn’t afford it—especially those with lower incomes. For families earning under $25,000, 42% skipped care, compared to 12% of those earning over $100,000 ( USAFacts ).
When it comes to joint replacement, the price tag can be staggering. In 2020, the median cost for a total hip or knee replacement at top orthopaedic hospitals was just over $68,000 without complications, according to an analysis reported by ABC News (ABC News). Even with insurance, high deductibles and co-pays often leave patients with bills they can’t manage.
Long Wait Times in Canada: A Global Challenge
Patients in Canada face their own hurdles—lengthy wait times that delay critical care. A 2023 report by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) revealed that only 66% of hip replacement patients and 59% of knee replacement patients received surgery within the recommended 26 weeks. This is a noticeable decline from pre-pandemic levels (CBC).
For Canadian patients frustrated by long waits, and for Americans grappling with cost and insurance denials, alternatives are crucial.
A Solution: Cash-Pay Joint Replacement at Smith Medical Direct Specialty Care
At Smith Medical Direct Specialty Care (DSC), we provide a path forward for patients in need of joint replacement surgery. Our cash-pay model offers significant savings compared to the prices typically charged in hospitals—even for patients with insurance. By bypassing insurance complexities, denials, and excessive administrative costs, we can deliver exceptional surgical care at a fraction of the typical cost.
Patients choosing Smith Medical DSC benefit from:
- Transparent, upfront pricing
- Substantial savings over insured rates
- Prompt scheduling without red tape
- High-quality care from an experienced surgical team
For Canadians tired of waiting and Americans seeking an affordable option, Smith Medical DSC makes joint replacement surgery accessible, efficient, and cost-effective.
Don’t Delay the Care You Need
Delaying joint replacement surgery can mean prolonged pain, reduced mobility, and worsening health. If insurance barriers or high costs have kept you from moving forward, we invite you to explore cash-pay surgery at Smith Medical DSC as a smarter alternative.
