Everyone wants to see a physiotherapist. The benefits are certainly well-established. The only question that remains for many Burnaby and Greater Vancouver area residents, is in regards to what is involved when it comes to paying for the essential service. Don’t worry, this won’t be one of those “What is your wellness worth to you?” types of responses. Instead, we’re going to answer this your query as directly as possible. Let’s get to it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Physiotherapy Treatments in Burnaby BC in the Most Cost Efficient Way Possible
A Quick Summary from BC MSP
For the most part, physiotherapy services are not covered under the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP). The majority of BC residents pay for physiotherapy through extended health benefits, their own funds, or a combination of the two. However, some individuals living under special circumstances may be eligible to access financial support through MSP supplementary benefits. The Physiotherapy Association of BC states that these circumstances may include (but are not exclusive to) the following:
- Individuals who have applied and been deemed eligible based on their annual net income
- Income Assistance recipients
- Individuals enrolled with MSP through the At Home Program
- Residents of long term care facilities receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
- Individuals enrolled with MSP as Mental Health Clients; and
- First Nations individuals with valid B.C. Medical Plan coverage through the First Nations Health Authority
If you feel as if you may qualify for any of the above, visit the BC Government’s website on Supplementary Benefits for qualification criteria. Otherwise, keep reading.
Step 1: Reference Rates for Physiotherapy Services
Physiotherapy is a diverse discipline, and not all clinics are equal in the number of services they offer. The rates for each type of service vary by specialization and the time allotted per session. To get a better understanding of what each session will cost, please reference rates for physiotherapy services that are available at our highly specialized clinic in Burnaby BC.
Step 2: Find Out if You Qualify for Direct Billing
The answer for “How to Pay for Physiotherapy?” may be a very easy and satisfying one. If you qualify for Direct Billing, you won’t have to pay a penny out of pocket. That’s right, you may be able to enjoy numerous sessions with a specialist who will put you on the road to recovery and optimal performance. For instance, if you are seeking chiropractic care via an ICBC claim, you qualify, and don’t have to pay for treatment. The same goes for TCM acupuncture. Direct Billing is also available to those who have certain extended healthcare plans. Find out if you qualify for Direct Billing at our Burnaby BC clinic.
Step 3: Know Your Payment Options
If you don’t qualify for Direct Billing, you want to know how to pay for treatment. Traditionally our Burnaby clinic accepts cash, debit, and credit cards. However, during the current health crisis, we know that patients prefer fewer touch points in the public reception area. Therefore, we have currently sidelined cash and debit card payments. Instead, we simply place your active credit card on file so that we can settle any payments in a contactless way using Payfirma. We anticipate that payment options will return to normal very soon – so stay tuned! And please do feel free to call our front desk at 604.558.2273 to inquire about the most up to date payment options.
*Payfirma is PCI compliant (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) and uses the same 128-bit encryption as the big banks around the world. We will process your credit card on file and your receipt will be emailed to you.
Step 4: Book Appointment
You know what the rates for physiotherapy services in Burnaby are. You have found out if you qualify for Direct Billing, and you know how to pay (if required). Now it’s time to book your appointment. Yes, it can be as simple as using this booking form. But we realize that you may have some additional questions first. No problem – we’ve got you covered there too. Here are the 3 key questions you may want answered prior to booking your physiotherapy appointment. Otherwise, if you have a full understanding of how to pay (or not pay!) for physiotherapy, simply click the button below to get started.