What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a health care profession directed at assisting people to restore, maintain and maximize their movement, strength, function, and overall well-being. Physiotherapy includes rehabilitation, as well as prevention of injury, and promotion of health and fitness. The terms "physiotherapy" and "physical therapy" mean the same thing and are used interchangeably, as are the terms “physiotherapist”, “physical therapist” and “PT”.
Who is a physiotherapist?
Physiotherapists are university trained healthcare professionals who have in-depth knowledge of how the body works and have hands-on clinical skills to assess, diagnose, relieve pain, and improve movement and function. In North America, Physiotherapists graduate from a Masters program after their Bachelors degree. Physiotherapists often work in teams with other health professionals to help meet an individual's health care needs.
Who is a certified hand therapist?
A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is a Physical or Occupational Therapist who has a minimum of five years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy. In addition, the CHT has successfully passed a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper quarter rehabilitation. The Certified Hand Therapist credential offers assurance to the public that the therapist has achieved the highest level of competency in the profession and stays up to date with practice within the field. Currently, there are 210 CHTs in Canada and two CHTs working in private practice within Richmond, BC.
Who can benefit from one-to-one physiotherapy?
Athletes of all levels - elite and recreational, professionals, children and adolescents, post surgical patients, peri-natal women, people with recurring or chronic injuries, seniors who don't want to be rushed and anyone else who values an individualized, focused treatment plan for a musculoskeletal injury.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
No, you do not need a doctor's referral as Physiotherapists are primary care providers and the experts in musculoskeletal injuries. Some private health insurance companies may require a doctor's referral to be submitted to qualify for coverage so it's best to check your personal plan.
If you do have a referral, do bring it in with you and we will add it to your chart notes and may liaise with your doctor as needed.
If you do have a referral, do bring it in with you and we will add it to your chart notes and may liaise with your doctor as needed.
What can I expect on my first visit?
Your initial session will involve a discussion and a thorough musculoskeletal assessment. So, please wear or bring suitable attire (sports bra, shorts, etc. to expose the area to be treated) to change into. The physiotherapist will then explain your treatment plan to you to help you achieve your personal goal(s). You will be educated throughout your treatment sessions so that you will become more body aware and prevent further or future injuries. The duration, frequency and number of treatments will vary depending on the condition.
** Please note: If you have an appointment for vestibular rehabilitation assessment/treatment, please plan for a ride post session as you may not be suitable to drive right after the appointment due to dizziness.
** Please note: If you have an appointment for vestibular rehabilitation assessment/treatment, please plan for a ride post session as you may not be suitable to drive right after the appointment due to dizziness.
WILL THE SERVICE BE COVERED BY THE GOVERNMENT?
Physiotherapy was de-listed by the government from the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP) on January 1, 2002. This means that the majority of people in BC must pay for Physiotherapy through extended health benefits, their own money, or a combination of the two. People with lower income receive supplementary coverage for Physiotherapy through MSP Premium Assistance. We will be able to check your Care Card and confirm in advance whether you qualify as an MSP beneficiary.
For MSP beneficiaries receiving premium assistance, MSP will contribute $23 per visit for a combined annual limit of 10 visits each calendar year towards: physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, and non-surgical podiatry. The patient is responsible for any remaining treatment fee.
For MSP beneficiaries receiving premium assistance, MSP will contribute $23 per visit for a combined annual limit of 10 visits each calendar year towards: physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, and non-surgical podiatry. The patient is responsible for any remaining treatment fee.
Do you have direct billing?
Yes, we offer direct billing for most extended health insurers as well as ICBC, MSP Premium Assistance, RCMP, Veterans Affairs and UBC Orthopaedic Reconstruction. Each insurer covers a different amount and you will be responsible for the remainder of the fee. Please inquire with our front desk administrative team when booking your appointmen so that we may set this up for you before your visit.
All remaining treatment or product fees are privately billed and are to be paid at the time of your appointment. An official receipt will be emailed to you, for you to apply for reimbursement.
All remaining treatment or product fees are privately billed and are to be paid at the time of your appointment. An official receipt will be emailed to you, for you to apply for reimbursement.
I was injured in a motor vehicle accident (MVA), am I covered by ICBC?
You are entitled to accident benefits whether you are at fault or not. There is no need for an initial doctor's referral if the accident is recent and/or you have not had any previous treatment. You may begin physiotherapy treatment immediately after you report your claim to ICBC without prior approval.
As of May 1st, 2021, ICBC will cover $133 of the initial physiotherapy fee and $84 for each subsequent visit – up to an established limit of 25 visits. You will be responsible for the remaining treatment fee.
Please provide us with your ICBC claim number, your adjustor's name, and phone number of your adjustor at the time of booking.
As of May 1st, 2021, ICBC will cover $133 of the initial physiotherapy fee and $84 for each subsequent visit – up to an established limit of 25 visits. You will be responsible for the remaining treatment fee.
Please provide us with your ICBC claim number, your adjustor's name, and phone number of your adjustor at the time of booking.
Do you treat WorksafeBC clients?
We do not have a contract with WorksafeBC (WSBC) to treat injured workers at this time.
Do you have free PARKING?
Yes! There is an underground parking lot entrance on the east side of No. 2 road, with stairs right to our building. There are two spots reserved for our patients labeled Empower Physiotherapy as well as four visitor parking spots. Also, there is lots of free street parking right in front of the clinic.
