Paying for Physiotherapy

On January 1, 2002, physiotherapy was de-listed from the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP), meaning that the considerable majority of people in BC must pay for physiotherapy through extended health benefits, their own money or a combination of the two.

For people with low incomes who are on premium assistance, MSP will contribute up to $23 per visit for up to 10 total visits to physiotherapy. School-age children in the At-Home Program are also funded for 24 physiotherapy treatments every six months.

About two-thirds of BC adults have extended health benefits through a group insurance plan. These plans tend to cover a varying percentage of the cost of treatment, with an annual ceiling amount. It's important to note that some extended health insurance plans require a physician's referral in order to re-imburse you for claims. It has been shown, however, that direct access to physiotherapy (no physician referral required) is much more beneficial to the employer and the patient. See attachment below for more information.

Workers’ Compensation Board and the Insurance Corporation of BC still provide coverage for physiotherapy services.

What it costs:

Fees are set by each clinic seperately and vary depending on the length of visit and the treatment needed. Costs per visit will generally fall between $60 and $95.

When third party payer rates are below clinic rates (e.g. ICBC, MSP), clinics typically charge patients the difference; this user fee plus the insurer rate should reflect the total clinic fee.