Navigating the Ontario healthcare system can sometimes be confusing. Many medical professionals and specialists require a referral from a doctor before a person can access their services. However, knowing when you do or do not need a referral can be hard to know. Patients may look for a referral for physiotherapy services when seeking insurance coverage. However, a referral is not required to see a physiotherapist in Ontario.

At Athletic Advantage, we help our patients reduce pain and improve mobility. We understand that you may have questions about physiotherapy treatments and what coverage of this service may look like for you. In this post, we outline the basics of accessing physiotherapy in Ontario and help you understand if you should get a referral.

Referrals are not necessary to obtain physiotherapy in Ontario. There is no need to wait if you are in pain or experiencing limited mobility issues. Contact Athletic Advantage today and see why we are the physical therapist Markham residents depend on.

Will My Insurance Cover Physiotherapy?

If you have private insurance, it is always best to check with your insurance provider to understand what coverage you have. Many insurance plans cover physiotherapy as a paramedical service though the amount of coverage can vary. Public clinics may also provide OHIP-covered services under specific conditions. In some cases, an insurance provider may require that a patient obtains a referral to qualify for coverage, while other providers leave it to the discretion of the patient. Be sure to check the conditions of your insurance plan before assuming any service will be covered.

How Can I Know Which Physiotherapist to Choose?

Choosing a physiotherapist can seem overwhelming when there are so many options to choose from. Consider speaking with people you know for a personal referral and investigate testimonials and reviews from patients of clinics you are looking into. Keep in mind that not all physiotherapists offer the same services, such as manual physiotherapy.

 Look for a physiotherapist who offers a hands-on and personalized approach to your treatment. At Athletic Advantage, we consider your entire body in relation to injuries and pain and aim to find the root cause. We also offer a variety of other services, such as massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. These services can work in conjunction with physiotherapy or as a stand-alone service to support wellness.

What Can a Physiotherapist Treat?

Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain and improve mobility. Patients may seek physiotherapy to support them with a variety of issues. Physiotherapy for back, neck and knee pain is common though it can also be used to support patients with chronic pain, headaches and other ailments.

There is no need to wait for your primary care provider to offer you a referral. If you feel that physiotherapy can help your pain or mobility issues, book a session with an experienced physiotherapist, such as the experts at Athletic Advantage.  We look forward to helping you reduce pain and improve mobility with our hands-on, whole-body approach.

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