Examining the Role of Health Insurance in Covering the Costs of Sports Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Patients: Opportunities and Challenges

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects motor function, cognition, and quality of life. Sports rehabilitation has emerged as a valuable non-pharmacological intervention, yet its integration into routine care remains inconsistent― largely due to financial barriers and variable insurance coverage. This study investigates the role of health insurance in facilitating or limiting access to sports rehabilitation for individuals with Parkinson's disease, and explores the opportunities and challenges in current policy frameworks. A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews with 18 stakeholders, including neurologists, physical therapists, insurance professionals, caregivers, and PD patients. Data were analyzed through thematic analysis using NVivo 14. Five major themes were identified: (1) Uneven access to rehabilitation services, (2) Ambiguity in insurance policies, (3) Economic burden and out-of-pocket costs, (4) Perceived clinical value of rehabilitation, and (5) Opportunities for policy reform. Participants emphasized the therapeutic benefits of sports rehabilitation but reported widespread challenges in reimbursement, policy clarity, and affordability. Health insurance plays a pivotal role in shaping access to essential rehabilitation services for PD patients. To address current disparities, policy reforms should aim to standardize coverage, recognize the long-term cost-effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions, and promote more inclusive care models. Enhancing insurance support for sports rehabilitation can improve both patient outcomes and system-level efficiency.