How one breath-focused digital therapeutic can help people with panic disorder

Do you have panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)? Have therapy, medications, or mindfulness practices alone fallen short? A digital therapeutic could help you (insert Uncle Sam finger) breathe easier.

Freespira, an FDA-backed tool, allows users to monitor their breathing in real time and learn how to regulate it via training sessions from the comfort of their own home. The digital therapeutic—which features a nasal cannula, breathing sensor, and tablet—can reduce or eliminate symptoms of panic disorder, panic attacks, and PTSD; in studies, a majority of users reported such outcomes after completing the 28-day treatment.

The concept is not new: Anyone who’s taken a yoga class can attest to the benefits of breath work. But Freespira CEO Joe Perekupka said the device takes that zen a step further, helping users visualize their breathing habits during twice-daily sessions and weekly check-ins with a coach.

“We see a significant shift in the patient’s entire approach to life almost after this because it’s addressing their physical symptoms,” he told Healthcare Brew. “They’re playing an active role in it, they’re able to see the direct correlation between them doing the treatment and getting better throughout their 28 days.”

Reducing symptoms of both PTSD and panic disorder is not just good for Freespira clients, many of whom Perekupka said may have found medications or behavioral therapy insufficient. The healthcare system also benefits, as the digital therapeutic and program can reduce unnecessary emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and other costs.

The company is now partnering with health plans and other large payers that want to reduce costs and improve patient outcomes via the digital therapeutic. Freespira touts a 35% reduction in medical costs for plans.

Freespira uses an algorithm to identify health plan patients who have been diagnosed with the conditions as well as claims data to find those who are likely undiagnosed, Perekupka said. The company then works with the insurer to conduct direct member outreach.

Perekupka said the digital therapeutic is completely covered by most programs so far, including Medicaid, the Department of Veterans Affairs and TRICARE, and some commercial plans. If not covered, it costs about $2,000 for the device and the corresponding four-week treatment program.