From Startup to Industry Leader: 10 Years of Transforming Patient Care

Ten years ago, Confluent Health started with a vision: to revolutionize musculoskeletal (MSK) healthcare by offering world-class physical therapy services that put patients first. It wasn’t just about treating pain; it was about transforming lives, strengthening communities, and reshaping an industry. Fast forward to today, and Confluent Health has become an industry leader with a national footprint, over 1,500 care sites, and millions of patients served annually. This journey from startup to healthcare powerhouse is a testament to innovation, passion, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. 

The Spark of an Idea: Where It All Began 

Confluent Health was founded on the belief that the healthcare system needed change—specifically, in how MSK care was delivered. At the time, physical therapy was often an afterthought in the patient care journey. However, what started as a small idea that early intervention and non-invasive therapies could not only save patients from unnecessary surgeries and medications but also improve their overall quality of life, soon blossomed into a national network united in fulfilling that mission.  

Armed with a vision for a more proactive, patient-centered approach, Confluent Health was born with a focus on elevating physical therapy to the forefront of MSK care. What started as a small network of clinics quickly gained momentum as the results spoke for themselves—patients were getting better faster, and with fewer medical interventions. 

Innovating the Patient Experience 

One of the key drivers of Confluent Health’s early success was its focus on innovation, particularly in improving the patient experience. From the outset, the company sought to blend cutting-edge technology with human expertise, creating a seamless care experience that catered to the modern patient’s needs. 

The introduction of virtual care options, telehealth, and advanced diagnostic tools allowed Confluent Health to stay ahead of industry trends and give patients more flexibility and access to care. Patients could now schedule appointments online, attend virtual therapy sessions from the comfort of their homes, and communicate easily with their therapists via digital platforms. This tech-forward approach proved essential, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person visits were limited. 

A Commitment to Education and Excellence 

Another cornerstone of Confluent Health’s growth has been its investment in education and professional development. This commitment to excellence didn’t stop with clinical staff. Confluent Health also focused on educating patients, empowering them with the tools and understanding they needed to actively participate in their own recovery. This holistic approach to education—both for clinicians and patients—has led to consistently better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction rates. 

Key Milestones on the Path to Success 

As Confluent Health grew, it hit several key milestones that signaled its evolution from startup to industry leader. One of the most significant moments came with the expansion of its national network. By partnering with top-tier physical therapy practices across the country, Confluent Health was able to scale its reach while maintaining the high-quality, patient-centered care that it had built its reputation on. 

The company’s innovative hybrid care model—which combines in-person and virtual therapy sessions—also became a game-changer, driving both patient engagement and cost reductions. With the hybrid model, Confluent Health not only provided better care for patients but also delivered significant cost savings to healthcare providers, employers, and payers. By 2023, the company had served over 525,000 patients and conducted more than 5.5 million visits in a single year, cementing its position as a major player in the healthcare space. 

Strengthening the Workforce: A Focus on Clinician Well-Being 

Confluent Health’s journey wouldn’t be complete without a focus on its most valuable asset—its people. Early on, the company recognized that to be an industry leader, it needed to create an environment where its clinicians could thrive. By offering flexible schedules, mental health support, and opportunities for career growth, Confluent Health built a culture that valued the well-being of its employees. 

The company has been recognized multiple times as a “Best Places to Work” winner, a reflection of its commitment to fostering a supportive, dynamic, and empowering workplace culture. This focus on clinician well-being has not only reduced burnout but also attracted top talent, helping the company scale while maintaining its high standards of care. 

Pioneering the PT-First Pathway 

One of the most transformative moments in Confluent Health’s history came when it championed the PT-first care pathway. This approach reimagines how MSK care is delivered, positioning physical therapy as the initial step in the patient journey rather than a last resort after medications or surgery. The PT-first model has led to faster recoveries, fewer surgeries, and a significant reduction in opioid prescriptions. 

By making physical therapy the cornerstone of MSK care, Confluent Health not only improved outcomes for patients but also positioned itself as a thought leader in the healthcare industry. The results have been undeniable: patients receiving early physical therapy see a 58% reduction in overall MSK costs and a 79% reduction in surgeries, proving that a conservative, non-invasive approach can deliver exceptional value. 

The Role of Leadership in Driving Change 

At the helm of Confluent Health’s transformation has been a team of visionary leaders, including Dr. Kristi Henderson, DNP, FAAN, CEO of Confluent Health. Her passion for innovation, technology, and patient-centered care has driven the company’s mission forward. Under her leadership, Confluent Health has continued to push boundaries, advocating for policy changes that lower barriers to physical therapy and implementing value-based care models that incentivize better outcomes for patients and providers alike. 

Advocating for Policy and Payer Support 

As Confluent Health’s influence in the industry has grown, so has its role as an advocate for systemic change. As an active member of the APTQI, Confluent Health and our leadership has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce co-pays for physical therapy, ensure fair reimbursement for providers, and shift the healthcare system toward value-based care. These efforts have been crucial in making physical therapy more accessible to patients, particularly those who might otherwise face financial barriers. 

Transforming Communities, One Patient at a Time 

While Confluent Health’s journey is filled with impressive statistics and business milestones, at its core, the company remains focused on transforming individual lives. By addressing the root causes of musculoskeletal pain and prioritizing non-invasive treatments, Confluent Health has helped millions of patients return to their daily activities, free from pain and unnecessary medical interventions. 

From athletes recovering from injuries to older adults regaining mobility, Confluent Health’s impact is felt in communities across the country. Each patient success story is a testament to the company’s commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Confluent Health 

As Confluent Health looks to the future, the company remains focused on its mission to strengthen patients, clinicians, and communities. The journey from startup to industry leader may have been fast, but the road ahead is filled with even more potential for growth and impact. 

With plans to continue expanding its network, investing in cutting-edge technology, and advocating for policy changes that benefit patients and providers, Confluent Health is poised to shape the next decade of healthcare. The company’s legacy will be one of transformation—not just in patient care but in how the healthcare system approaches musculoskeletal health. 

From startup to industry leader, Confluent Health has proven that with the right vision, values, and people, you can transform both lives and industries.