To access funding for physiotherapy services through WorkSafeBC, follow these steps:
1. Report the Injury to WorkSafeBC
As soon as a workplace injury occurs, report it to WorkSafeBC by filing a claim. This can be done online through the WorkSafeBC website, by phone, or by submitting a Worker’s Report of Injury or Occupational Disease (Form 6).
Your employer will need to fill out a form to initiate the WorkSafeBC claim.
A doctor will need to fill out a form to initiate the WorkSafeBC claim. See a doctor as soon as possible after the injury, as this is important to start your claim. Once you, your employer, and your physician have completed and submitted your forms, ICBC can process the claim. Otherwise, the claim status will sit as “Pending”.
2. Receive a Claim Number
Once your claim is processed, you'll be given a claim number. This number is crucial as it confirms your eligibility to access funded healthcare services, including physiotherapy.
Once you have a claim number, within 60 days of your injury, a physiotherapy assessment is covered by WorkSafeBC. Claims “under review” do not cover physio, and our administrative team will tell you if this is the case.
Our administrative team will confirm with you prior to your appointment if your claim fully covers physiotherapy. If you are unsure about your claim status (under review, approved, or not approved), call the clinic at 250-286-9670 or email at info@mendbodyworks.com and our administrative team will be able to confirm the status of your claim. Have your Personal Health Number and your Claim Number available.
3. It is recommended to see a Physician or Nurse Practitioner - to Start the Claim
It is recommended that you visit a physician or nurse practitioner for an assessment of your injury. This healthcare provider will send their report to WorkSafeBC, confirming the need for treatment.
Seeing your physician or NP increases the probability that follow up physiotherapy treatment funding will be approved by WorkSafeBC.
4. Get Approval for Treatment
If your injury requires physiotherapy, WorkSafeBC may approve a referral for these services. In some cases, the healthcare provider will recommend specific therapies, and WorkSafeBC will approve funding.
5. Treatment and Billing
Once approved, WorkSafeBC will cover the cost of your treatments, so you don’t need to pay out of pocket. The clinic will bill WorkSafeBC directly.
Physiotherapy: WorkSafeBC often covers the initial assessment and follow-up sessions as approved.
6. Ongoing Treatment and Reporting
Your therapist will provide progress reports to WorkSafeBC, and your treatment plan will be adjusted based on your recovery.
If more sessions are needed, the healthcare provider or therapist may request additional funding or sessions on your behalf.
7. Stay in Communication with WorkSafeBC
Keep open communication with your WorkSafeBC case manager to ensure smooth approval for further treatments if needed.
Important Tips:
No Referral Required for Physiotherapy: You don’t need a doctor’s referral to start physiotherapy through WorkSafeBC, but it’s helpful to consult with your physician for an overall treatment plan.
Duration of Coverage: Treatments are generally covered for a set period of time, and extensions may be granted based on recovery progress.
For more detailed information, visit the WorkSafeBC website or consult your case manager directly.
https://www.worksafebc.com/en