Knee Replacement Cost in Akron, OH – 2025 Complete Guide
Facing the cost of knee replacement in Akron, OH can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re already dealing with pain and mobility issues. In 2025, understanding what you might pay and what factors influence those costs can help you make more informed decisions. This guide draws from trusted sources like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, CMS.gov, Healthcare Bluebook, and Cleveland Clinic to provide accurate, up-to-date information. Whether you’re insured, uninsured, or somewhere in between, this guide is designed to support you every step of the way.
What is the average cost of knee replacement in Akron, OH?
The average cost of a total knee replacement in Akron, OH ranges from $28,000 to $55,000 in 2025, depending on the facility, surgeon, and insurance coverage. According to Healthcare Bluebook, a fair price for a knee replacement in the Akron area is approximately $34,000. However, prices can vary widely based on whether the procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS.gov) reports that Medicare-approved facilities in Ohio typically charge between $30,000 and $50,000 for knee replacement procedures. Costs may be lower at ambulatory surgical centers compared to hospital settings. The Cleveland Clinic, a major regional provider, also offers bundled pricing options that may reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients.
It’s important to request a detailed cost estimate from your provider, as this range may or may not include anesthesia, imaging, physical therapy, or post-operative care.
What factors affect the cost of knee replacement?
Several factors can significantly influence the cost of a knee replacement in Akron, OH. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), these include the type of knee implant used, the complexity of the surgery, and whether you undergo a partial or total knee replacement. Surgeon fees, hospital charges, anesthesia, and post-operative rehabilitation also contribute to the total cost.
Location plays a role as well. Urban hospitals in Akron may charge more than rural facilities due to higher overhead costs. The type of facility—hospital vs. outpatient surgical center—can also impact pricing. According to Fair Health, outpatient centers often offer lower costs for the same procedure due to shorter stays and reduced facility fees.
Insurance status and plan details are also key. Patients with high-deductible plans or no insurance may face higher out-of-pocket expenses. Additional health conditions, such as obesity or diabetes, may require more complex care, increasing both surgical and recovery costs.
Does insurance cover knee replacement?
Yes, most insurance plans—including Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance—typically cover medically necessary knee replacement surgery. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS.gov) confirms that Medicare Part A and Part B cover inpatient hospital stays and physician services for knee replacement, provided the procedure is deemed medically necessary by your provider.
Private insurers like Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and Blue Cross Blue Shield also generally cover knee replacement, but coverage details vary. You may be responsible for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Prior authorization is often required, and some plans may require conservative treatments like physical therapy or injections before approving surgery.
Medicaid coverage in Ohio includes knee replacement for eligible patients, though you may need a referral and pre-approval. According to the Ohio Department of Medicaid, coverage includes hospital care, surgeon fees, and rehabilitation services, but not all facilities accept Medicaid, so confirm with your provider first.
Are there payment plans or financing options available in Akron?
Yes, many hospitals and orthopedic practices in Akron offer payment plans or financing options to help manage the cost of knee replacement. According to Cleveland Clinic, patients without insurance or with high out-of-pocket costs may qualify for structured payment plans, often interest-free for a set period.
Third-party financing companies like CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit are also accepted by many orthopedic providers in the Akron area. These healthcare credit lines can cover surgical costs, anesthesia, and post-operative care, with repayment terms ranging from 6 to 60 months.
Additionally, nonprofit hospitals such as Summa Health may offer financial assistance programs based on income and family size. The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) recommends asking for a written estimate and discussing payment options before scheduling surgery to avoid unexpected bills.
How does the cost in Akron compare to other Ohio cities?
Compared to other cities in Ohio, Akron’s knee replacement costs are generally moderate. According to Fair Health, the average cost in Akron ($28,000–$55,000) is slightly lower than in larger cities like Cleveland, where prices can exceed $60,000, especially at major academic hospitals. Columbus and Cincinnati show similar or slightly higher cost ranges due to higher demand and facility fees.
Healthcare Bluebook lists a fair price for knee replacement in Columbus at around $36,000, while in Toledo, it’s closer to $32,000. Smaller cities and rural areas may offer lower prices, but they may not have access to high-volume orthopedic specialists or advanced surgical centers.
Ultimately, Akron offers a balance of affordability and access to reputable orthopedic surgeons, making it a competitive option within the state for knee replacement procedures.
What’s included in the knee replacement cost?
The total cost of knee replacement surgery typically includes several components. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), these include pre-operative consultations, imaging (like X-rays or MRIs), the surgical procedure itself, anesthesia, hospital or surgical center fees, and post-operative care such as physical therapy.
Some providers offer bundled pricing, which combines all these elements into one comprehensive fee. For example, Cleveland Clinic’s bundled payment program may include pre-surgical evaluations, the implant, surgeon and facility fees, and 90 days of post-operative care.
However, not all quotes include every component. Items like durable medical equipment (e.g., walkers), follow-up visits, or extended rehabilitation may incur additional charges. Always request a detailed breakdown to understand what’s included and what may be billed separately.
Do I need a partial or total knee replacement, and how much does it cost?
Whether you need a partial or total knee replacement depends on the extent of joint damage. According to the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS), partial knee replacement is appropriate when only one compartment of the knee is affected, often due to localized osteoarthritis. Total knee replacement is recommended when damage is more widespread.
Cost varies significantly between the two. Healthcare Bluebook estimates that a partial knee replacement in Akron costs between $20,000 and $35,000, while total knee replacement ranges from $28,000 to $55,000. Partial replacements generally involve shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, which can reduce overall costs.
Your orthopedic surgeon will assess your imaging and symptoms to determine the most appropriate procedure. In some cases, patients initially eligible for a partial replacement may later require a total replacement if arthritis progresses.
How long does the knee replacement process take?
The full knee replacement process—from initial consultation to full recovery—can take several months. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the surgery itself typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days, though outpatient procedures are increasingly common.
Pre-operative preparation, including imaging and lab work, may take a few weeks. After surgery, initial recovery takes about 6 to 12 weeks, with physical therapy starting almost immediately. Full recovery, including return to normal activities, often takes 3 to 6 months, depending on age, health status, and adherence to rehabilitation.
Planning ahead for time off work, home modifications, and transportation to physical therapy appointments can help ensure a smoother recovery process.
What is the success rate of knee replacement?
Knee replacement surgery has a high success rate. The American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) reports that over 90% of total knee replacements are still functioning well 10 to 15 years after surgery. Many patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within weeks of the procedure.
Success depends on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the type of implant used, and patient adherence to post-operative care. According to a study published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, patient satisfaction rates exceed 85%, especially when rehabilitation protocols are closely followed.
Complications are relatively rare but can include infection, blood clots, or implant loosening. Choosing a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and a high-volume surgical center can help reduce these risks and improve outcomes.
Are there affordable alternatives to knee replacement?
Yes, there are several non-surgical and less invasive alternatives to knee replacement. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), options include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, and lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and low-impact exercise.
Costs for these treatments vary. For example, corticosteroid injections may