Given that Google is at your fingertips (or voice command) this seems like a very simple question, but it’s not as easy as that, is it? In fact, that’s why you’ve searched for more information on where to find a physiotherapist in the first place. Today we’re going to shed some light on your options.
4 Places to Find a Good Physiotherapist in 2020-21 and What You Should Consider
Google Reviews
Sorry BING, but “you” don’t cut it when it comes to online searches for local physiotherapists. While it’s true that you will likely find the same assortment of clinics when searching for physiotherapy in a given area there is one key ingredient that the world’s largest search engine has – Google Reviews.
Search results alone don’t tell the story. To know that you’re choosing the right clinic, you need to look beyond within a set kilometer radius from your smartphone or laptop. After all, the Canadian Physiotherapy Association reports that approximately 90% of physiotherapists are are found in highly densified urban communities. Google Map results alone don’t always carry weight.
You need greater insight into what sets a clinic apart. Google Reviews will tell you that. Keep in mind that when it comes to health and wellness services you deserve to have VERY high expectations, so only consider a collective Google Review score that is 4.5-stars or higher. In Burnaby (or Greater Vancouver for that matter) that result is right here.
Social Media (well, some social media)
Many people mistrust social media chatter, but you can look to Facebook Reviews to see if they align with Google Reviews. The number of reviews will very likely vary, but the star rating should be closely correlated. If a clinic has ever 4.5-stars on Facebook and over 4.5-stars on Google then there is consistency. If there is a wide discrepancy, then something may be amiss (i.e. a clinic got their Facebook friends and family to write reviews, etc.). Again, social media feedback is not too authoritative but it does supplement your research on where to find a physiotherapist.
Your Province’s Physiotherapy Association Website
Your province (or state) has a physiotherapy association website. Make sure candidate clinics are listed on the website directory accordingly. If not, something may be amiss. For BC, look for a clinic on the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia directory.
Real People
Ask your friends, family, coworkers, gym buddies, barber/stylist, bartender, and anyone else you trust. While we may live in an online world there is still something to be said about personal referrals.
The Canadian Institute of Health Information reports that nearly 12% of adults have consulted with a physiotherapist. And now that ICBC has introduced a new care based model, year end results for how many people have visited a physiotherapist are expected to be significantly bigger. That means there is someone in your social network (of real people) who has gone to (or continues to visit) a local physiotherapist. They will be happy to provide you with detailed feedback.