Do I need a doctor’s referral to come to physiotherapy?

As a general rule a doctor’s referral is not required to receive physiotherapy treatment. If you are being treated for an ICBC or WCB claim you will likely require a doctor’s referral. Some extended healthcare insurance providers require a doctor’s referral, so it is best to check with your insurance provider prior to your first visit.

Where are you located?

South Vancouver Physiotherapy Clinic is located within the South Vancouver Medical Clinic on the second floor of the Real Canadian Superstore at 350 SE Marine Drive.

Is there parking?

Yes, there is a free parking lot outside of the clinic/Superstore.

How quickly will I be seen for my first appointment?

The clinic is open Monday to Saturday, over a wide range of hours to accommodate patients who need to be seen before or after work. We will make every effort to book your appointment within 24 hours.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

• BC care card.
• If you have an ICBC or WorkSafeBC claim, we require your claim number, and the name of your adjustor if known.
• If you have an extended health care insurance coverage, please bring your policy card with all the pertinent details.
• Doctor’s referral note – if you have one and any relevant test results.
• X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound or other imaging reports.
• Post surgical instructions you’ve been given following surgery.
• Custom orthotics or footwear for foot injuries or foot pain.
• Details regarding your medical history.

What should I wear to my appointment?

• Bring a pair of runners and wear loose comfortable clothing.
• If your injury is to the lower half of your body (low back to feet) – bring a pair of shorts.
• If your injury is to the upper half of your body and you are a female, please wear a sports bra or tank top so that we can appropriately assess the area.
• Please bring any footwear, orthotics, braces or splints pertinent to your injury.

How long will I be in the clinic for each session?

You should give yourself at least 45 to 60 minutes for your initial assessment and treatment. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early for your first appointment to complete our intake forms. Subsequent treatments may range from 30 to 50 minutes, depending on your injury and type of treatment you require.

What happens at my first appointment?

Your physiotherapist will take a medical history, perform a physical examination and begin treatment for your injury.

How many treatments will I need?

Your physiotherapist will advise you of an appropriate treatment plan after your first assessment based on your health, severity of your condition and your goals.

Does extended health insurance cover my physiotherapy treatment?

Most insurance/health plans cover some physiotherapy treatments. Check with your insurer for more specific requirements.

Does the government cover any of the treatments?

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) will cover a combined total of 10 visits per calendar year for patients that qualify for premium assistance (physiotherapy, non-surgical podiatry, massage therapy, and chiropractic services.)
For further information on premium assistance, please visit the medical services plan website. We accept premium assistance billing for physiotherapy treatments only.

Does the clinic bill physiotherapy treatment directly to my insurance company?

Yes! In many cases we are now able to direct bill part or all of the treatment cost directly to your extended health insurance. Please check with your plan provider to confirm your physiotherapy coverage.

I have been in a motor vehicle accident. Should I go to physiotherapy?

If you were injured in motor vehicle accident, you need to file a claim with ICBC as soon as possible. You do not require a medical referral to begin physiotherapy treatment, but we do recommend that you visit your doctor to assess and document your injury as ICBC may require a doctor’s referral note. For more information on ICBC claims, click here.

Does the clinic accept WorkSafeBC (WCB ) patients?

Yes, South Vancouver Physiotherapy Clinic is approved by WorkSafeBC (WCB) to care for injured workers. WCB clients will need an approved claim number in order for us to bill the visit directly to WorkSafeBC. For more information on WorkSafeBC Claims, click here.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, debit card, and major credit cards (Visa, MC, Amex) for payment.

What if I cannot make a scheduled appointment? Do you have a cancellation policy?

If you cannot make an appointment, we kindly ask that you give us at least 24 hours notice. This advanced notice will allow us to offer this appointment time to another client in need of our services. Clients who cancel or change appointments with less than 24 hours notice or do not show up for their scheduled appointments will be charged a $35 fee.

If you have a question that hasn’t been answered here, please don’t hesitate to call our office at 604-282-7110.