Frequently asked questions:

1. Do I need a referral?
You do not need a referral to see a Registered Physiotherapist or a Registered Massage Therapist as a private patient or if you are on MSP Premium Assistance. However, many extended health plans do require you to have one as a condition of reimbursement. You should check with your extended carrier as each carrier and plan is different.

It is necessary to have a referral from a medical doctor for treatment for any WCB or ICBC claim and usually for RCMP and DVA claims as well.

2. Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

• Doctor’s referral (if you have one)
• Carecard number
• If you have Greenshield extended health, bring in your benefits card with your id/plan number.
• Shorts- If you are being treated for a back, hip, knee, ankle or foot problem
• Tank top or sport bra if you’re a woman and being treated for a neck, upper back or shoulder problem
• Shoes and orthotics- If you have a lower extremity injury related to a sport or a known issue with your gait mechanics it may be helpful for you to bring whatever shoes (including orthotics) you use.
• WCB Patients- Dr. referral, claim number, case manager’s name and number
• ICBC Patients – Dr. referral, claim number, adjuster’s name and number, lawyer’s name and number (if you have one)
• DVA Patients – Dr. referral, your ID or Health Identification Card number
• RCMP Patients – Dr. referral, your Health identification number, Unit/Detachment info and Division info.

3. How long will my appointment take?
New patients will have to fill out one or more intake forms. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early to fill out the form(s).

The length of your appointment will vary depending on your situation. Generally initial appointments take about 1 hour and subsequent visits range from 30 minutes to one hour.

4. Do I have to pay?
In most cases, the answer is yes. While we have a great health care system in BC, there are limits as to what is covered for Physiotherapy or Massage Therapy.

Payment you have to make depends on the type of claim you are making:

Private payers and those using extended health plans are required to pay at the time of treatment. The amount you pay will vary depending on the type of treatment, the therapist you see and whether it’s an Initial Assessment or a Follow-up Visit.

Greenshields has implemented an online system for payment, but there maystill be a co-payment you have to make. ICBC and MSP Premium Assistance patients will have a visit charge they are required to pay at each visit that is not covered by ICBC or MSP. You are also personally responsible for any no show charges. WCB (WorkSafe BC), DVA and RCMP patients are not required to pay up front for treatments, but will be personally responsible for any no show charges for missed appointments.