Freedom Health Insurance is expanding access to early musculoskeletal (MSK) support with the launch of Freedom Physiotherapy, responding to growing demand for faster access to treatment and earlier intervention.
The service will launch on 1st April 2026 as part of its digital health and wellbeing toolkit, Freedom 360, and will be delivered in partnership with Ascenti Physio.
Freedom Physiotherapy will leverage a national network of over 300 directly employed physiotherapists across 300 UK clinics, designed to enhance access to MSK support and help members recover sooner, reduce time away from work, and maintain long-term health and mobility.
Furthermore, it will enable members to access physiotherapy support through the Freedom Health Insurance claims team without the need for a GP referral.
Other key features of the service include 98% of initial assessments being delivered within one working day, 90% of the UK population being within five miles of an Ascenti Physio clinic, 100,000 referrals managed annually (with 92% self-referred), and flexible treatment pathways, including self-management, virtual physiotherapy, and face-to-face care.
"We are seeing growing demand for faster access to care, particularly for musculoskeletal conditions where early intervention can significantly improve outcomes," Hoosh Mires, chief operating officer of Freedom Health Insurance, said.
He added: "Freedom Physiotherapy is a natural extension of our Freedom 360 digital health and wellbeing toolkit, which is focused on identifying gaps in traditional pathways and introducing practical, accessible support when members need it.
"By partnering with Ascenti Physio, one of the UK’s leading physiotherapy providers, we offer fast access to expert-led care through a more streamlined, clinically guided pathway, improving how members access and progress through treatment.
"This addition strengthens the value we provide to both members and employers by enabling more effective use of healthcare pathways."
Kevin Doyle, chief commercial officer of Ascenti, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Freedom Health Insurance to support the launch of their digital-first MSK physiotherapy service.
"This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible musculoskeletal care that puts patients first. By combining Freedom’s member-focused approach with Ascenti Physio’s clinical and digital expertise across our national network, we are well-positioned to deliver timely, effective treatment that supports better outcomes and helps people return to what matters most to them."
