Is PRP Treatment Available in Public Hospitals?

Is PRP Treatment Available in Public Hospitals?

This article provides detailed information about whether PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatment is performed in public hospitals, which hospitals offer access, its use in orthopedics, and its advantages.

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) therapy is a method whereby plasma rich in platelets, obtained from the patient’s own blood, is injected into damaged tissues to accelerate the healing process. It has become increasingly common in orthopedics and traumatology, especially for treating sports injuries, cartilage damage, and tendon disorders. One of the most frequently asked questions by patients and healthcare users is whether PRP treatment is available in public hospitals.

The Status of PRP Treatment in Public Hospitals

In Turkey, PRP applications are predominantly offered in private healthcare facilities and university hospitals. Public hospitals do provide this treatment, but they face various challenges in expanding and standardizing it. The main reasons include the cost of PRP systems, contractual agreements with device suppliers, and resource limitations tied to health policies.

Nevertheless, particularly in large cities, training and research hospitals with orthopedics and traumatology departments offer PRP treatment. Patients who meet appropriate indication criteria can be planned for PRP therapy. However, the availability and accessibility of this treatment vary by city and hospital.

Application Areas of PRP Treatment in Public Hospitals

In orthopedics and sports medicine, PRP therapy is recognized as an effective method for treating:

• Tendon injuries, tendonitis, and tendinopathies
• Cartilage damage and early-stage osteoarthritis
• Tissue repair following sports injuries
• Muscle and ligament injuries
• Joint problems such as those affecting the knee and hip
• Supporting healing after arthroscopic surgery

In public hospitals, orthopedic specialists may refer patients with such conditions for PRP treatment after evaluation. The clinical condition of the patient and the hospital’s capabilities are considered during this assessment.

Differences Between Public and Private Hospitals Regarding PRP Therapy

There are several reasons why PRP treatment is more limited and selective in public hospitals. Cost control and efficient resource utilization are primary considerations. In the private sector, PRP treatment is more widely and rapidly accessible, often driven by patient demand and treatment variety. PRP treatments in private hospitals typically involve charging the patient, while in public hospitals, this therapy is generally provided under specific conditions, often free of charge or at a low cost.

The Application Process for PRP Treatment in Public Hospitals

Patients wishing to receive PRP therapy in a public hospital should first consult the orthopedics and traumatology outpatient clinic. After examination and necessary tests, if the doctor deems PRP application appropriate, a treatment plan will be arranged. An important aspect is the suitability of the patient’s condition for PRP therapy. Healthcare professionals clarify to patients that PRP is not effective in every case and treatment success rates may vary depending on individual factors.

In some public hospitals, PRP therapy may be offered within special programs or only as part of specific clinical studies. Thus, it is advisable to contact the relevant hospital department for information before treatment.

Effects and Risks of PRP Treatment

PRP is generally considered a safe treatment with minimal side effects since the injected blood is taken entirely from the patient’s own body. There is almost no risk of allergic reactions or infectious diseases. However, mild pain, swelling, or discomfort at the injection site may occur.

The success rate of PRP therapy depends on factors such as the patient's age, type and duration of injury, and treatment protocol. It is particularly effective in early-stage sports injuries and joint damage.

Recent scientific studies have shown that PRP supports tissue regeneration in tendon injuries and reduces pain while promoting functional recovery in joint diseases like osteoarthritis. However, this treatment is not suitable for all patients and must be decided by a specialist doctor.

In summary, PRP therapy is performed, albeit limitedly, in public hospitals, and patients should consult an orthopedic specialist first and investigate available hospitals. Decisions on treatment should be based on clinical and scientific evidence for the best outcomes.