Overview
If you're concerned about the cost of your Phothera phototherapy device, you're not alone—we're here to help. This article explains how Phothera Cares works, what costs you can expect, and how to get financial assistance. At Phothera, we are committed to affordability never being a barrier to treatment.
Quick Answer
You don't need to pay anything up front for your Phothera device. Through our Phothera Cares program:
- We bill your insurance directly
- We handle all insurance claims and appeals
- If you have out-of-pocket costs, we offer payment plans and financial assistance to help. Eligible patients pay $0.
If you're considering returning your device or canceling your shipment due to cost concerns, please visit our Phothera Cares website to see if you are eligible for financial assistance.
Understanding Phothera Cares
What is Phothera Cares?
Phothera Cares is our financial assistance program designed to ensure all patients receive the phototherapy care they need. While the majority of major insurers cover phototherapy for chronic skin conditions, including psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, CTCL, and mycosis fungoides, we understand that out-of-pocket costs can still be a barrier to treatment.
At Phothera, we are committed to affordability never being a barrier to treatment.
We're doing our part to help you break down those barriers.
How Phothera Cares Works – We do the heavy lifting for YOU
- Step 1: Insurance Verification
When your doctor prescribes a Phothera device, we verify your insurance coverage and benefits. - Step 2: Direct Billing
We bill your insurance company directly—you don't pay anything up front. - Step 3: Claims & Appeals
Our team files claims and appeals any denials on your behalf, at no cost to you. - Step 4: You may owe your customary copay/coinsurance and/or deductible based on your insurance plan. You will be able to pay this after you receive the bill. You can call our Billing number (below) to discuss payment plans or download the form below to apply for financial assistance.
Common Questions About Out-of-Pocket Costs
- "How much will I have to pay?"
Patients eligible for financial assistance pay $0. You are only responsible for your customary deductible and coinsurance/pays based on your insurance coverage. You will be able to pay this after you receive the bill, and you can call our Billing number to discuss payment plans and apply for financial assistance at that time.
- "Do I have to pay up front?"
No. We will bill your insurance company first. You are never required to pay up front.
- "What if my insurance doesn't cover it?"
We handle insurance appeals on your behalf at no cost to you. If your insurance denies coverage:
- We file an appeal with supporting medical documentation
- We work with your doctor's office to provide the necessary information
- We keep you informed throughout the process
- If an appeal is denied for any reason, you will not be responsible for the cost of the device
- "What if I have a high deductible or copay?"
This is exactly why Phothera Cares exists. If you have out-of-pocket costs, we offer payment plans and financial assistance programs to help eligible patients. Contact our team to discuss your eligibility and options via our contact form (select options Patient > My doctor just prescribed... > I received an email about the shipment of my device. I don't want the device, and I want to cancel the shipment).
- "I already received my device, but I'm worried about the cost. Should I return it?"
Many patients who initially wanted to return their devices due to cost concerns decided to keep them after learning:
- Their actual out-of-pocket costs were much lower than expected
- They qualified for Phothera Cares Financial assistance
- Their insurance covered more than they anticipated
Don't decide until you have all the facts. Talk to your doctor or submit a request through our contact form (select options Patient > My doctor just prescribed... > I received an email about the shipment of my device. I don't want the device, and I want to cancel the shipment), and our team will review your specific situation.
- "I received a shipment notification, but I want to cancel due to cost. What should I do?"
We strongly encourage you to speak with your doctor before canceling your shipment. If you have out-of-pocket costs, we offer payment plans and financial assistance program to help eligible patients.
Contact our team to discuss your eligibility and options via our contact form (select options Patient > My doctor just prescribed... > I received an email about the shipment of my device. I don't want the device, and I want to cancel the shipment).
How to Apply for Financial Assistance
You can find the electronic application at the main Phothera cares website.
Related Articles and Additional Resources
- Phothera Cares Program Information
- Billing Line: 419-633-3444 (Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm EST)