Frequently
Asked
Questions
FAQs
Why Should I See A Physiotherapist?
If you have a physical problem or injury that causes you pain and/or restricts your normal movement, daily activities or sports participation then one of our specially trained physiotherapists will assess, diagnose and treat your condition or injury.
All of our physiotherapists are able to offer a range of diverse treatment options which optimizes your treatment plan, helping you to get back to your regular activities more quickly and efficiently! Some of the most common physical problems or injuries that our physiotherapists see and treat are:
• Sporting injuries
• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Shoulder pain
• Knee pain
• Foot and heel pain
• Work related injuries
• Motor vehicle accident related injuries
Can physiotherapists help with sport related injuries?
Most definitely. Physiotherapists are hired by professional and amateur athletes and sports teams to plan, organize and direct programs of pre-season screening, first aid, rehabilitation, education and counseling for athletes, coaches and others concerned with sports. Physiotherapists may work directly with athletes or undertake a consulting role for sports organizations.
Our physiotherapists have worked with Olympians, World Champions, weekend warriors and many sports right here within the community. They are trained to develop strength and conditioning, flexibility programs, possess expert taping skills including kinesio taping and have sport specific manual therapy skills.
Fernie Physiotherapy currently provides physiotherapy services and education to a number of athletes/teams within the community. If your team is interested in having a physiotherapist provide injury management solutions, please contact us.
Do I need a doctor’s referral to book a physiotherapy appointment?
No. Physiotherapists are a regulated, primary health care providers which means you do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist. Some health insurance policies require a doctor’s referral before reimbursement, please check your policy!
Doctors refer more to physiotherapists than any other health profession.
Is the cost of physiotherapy treatment covered by MSP?
Physiotherapy treatment cost is only partially covered by MSP if you are eligible for MSP premium assistance. The user fee for the first assessment is $67.00; visits 2 – 10 are $57.00 each and additional visits (10+) are $80.00 each. Our receptionists are able to help you see if you are eligible for MSP premium assistance.
Is physiotherapy covered by private health care insurance?
Yes. A large portion of people in BC have private health coverage whether through themselves or an employer. Most of these policies include extended health benefits or paramedical benefits which include physiotherapy treatment. We are able to directly bill the majority of your insurance company if attending the Fernie clinic, however if we are unable to direct bill for you, we provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Please check with your insurer to find out what your coverage limit is and whether you need a doctor’s referral. Most insurance providers provide between 80% – 100% coverage of fees to an annual ceiling amount.
Is physiotherapy covered when I have a WorkSafeBC or ICBC Claim?
WCB claims approved for physiotherapy treatment are covered 100% by WCB whom we direct bill, as long as the initial physiotherapy visit is within 60 days of the date of the incident. ICBC directly covers 25 physiotherapy visits within 12 weeks of the date of the accident. Please make our reception staff aware if your treatment will be covered by a WCB or ICBC claim.
How long are appointments?
Initial appointment are typically 40-60 minutes in duration. This allows your physio-therapist to complete a full assessment and diagnosis of your problem, decide on an appropriate treatment plan and commence treatment. Follow up appointments are typically 30 minutes in duration with a focus on treatment and progressing exercises. Please arrive 5 minutes prior to your appointments.
What should I bring to my appointments?
Please bring or wear clothing appropriate to your area of body being worked on or assessed. Such as shorts for any leg, knee or foot problems, sleeveless top or sport tops for any females with shoulder injury. Clean indoor workout shoes if you choose.
I need a receipt for all my physiotherapy and massage therapy appointments for tax purposes. How can I get one?
If you need a yearly statement for all your appointments with us, we can email a copy upon request. Please phone or email requesting a client statement for the year and confirm your current email address with reception. If you require a printed copy, please phone the clinic to make arrangements for pick up.
If you have any questions before your initial appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us: Fernie: 250.423.3423, Elkford: 250.865.7111, Crowsnest: 1.844.584.9348.