FAQ's
What to expect?
The initial physiotherapy assessment will vary between 30 – 60 minutes depending upon problem. An hour is a common length of time for a massage therapy appointment.
On your first visit, you will be asked to complete a written confidential medical history form and provide personal information including address and medical benefits plan information. Your therapist will review medical history, assess your problem area, perhaps by checking for restricted or painful movement, palpating for tenderness and carrying out a postural observation and functional orthopaedic assessment. This information is used to plan the treatment session and to ensure your safety.
All treatments will be explained to you and will proceed only with your understanding and consent.
What to bring?
You should bring insurance information. Clothes that allow easy movement and that allow the injured area to be visualized ( ie., shorts, tank top). During months with inclement weather a pair of indoor shoes.
How are Cost covered?
The costs vary depending on the services required. When booking an appointment the cost for the service will be disclose at that time. Services are covered by several different sources.
MSI: The Nova Scotia provincial health plan does NOT cover services in a private facility.
Extended Health Insurance: Your plan through work, your spouse, or parents, often covers Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Massage Therapy. Each employer’s plan is different, so please contact your private Health Insurance company (call the number on your benefits card) or speak to a Human Resources person at work to find out the details of your plan. If you are unsure about your plan, our Administrative Staff will help you sort through the particulars on your very first visit.
WCB: If you have a work-related illness or injury, services may be provided by Workers Compensation.
MVA: If you have an illness or injury from a motor vehicle accident, services may be covered under your auto insurance plan.
STD/LTD: If you are receiving long term disability income from an insurance program, your program may cover services.
DVA: Department of Veteran's Affairs (for CA Armed Forces Veterans)
Payment
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Debit, Cash, Cheques. Blue Cross medical plans can be billed directly.
Do you need a referral?
Physiotherapists are primary care practitioners offering direct access to physiotherapy services without the need for physician referral. It's important to note that some extended health insurance plans require a physician's referral in order to reimburse you for claims.
Massage therapy is not covered under the Nova Scotia MSI; however, many people have private or group insurance which provides full or partial coverage under their extended health care plans. Some plans require a physician's referral or other specific criteria for coverage.