Is Physio Covered by MSP in BC?

If you live in British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) is an essential part of your healthcare. It covers the cost of medically necessary services, from check-ups with your family doctor to emergency hospital visits. 

As we age, our bodies are prone to develop various health conditions that may require medical attention. Physiotherapy is a common practice that helps in treating some of these conditions. Most people in British Columbia ask whether they are covered by physiotherapy under the BC MSP program. In this post, we will provide you with essential information that addresses if physiotherapy is covered by MSP in BC. 

Is Physiotherapy covered by MSP?

Many British Columbia residents may be surprised to learn that for most people, physiotherapy services are not covered under the province’s Medical Services Plan (MSP). This means that the cost of physiotherapy sessions is often paid by patients through their own funds or private insurance. 

However, some people will be eligible for Physiotherapy sessions through MSP based on their yearly income amounts. If you have applied for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) Supplementary Assistance program and are approved, you are eligible for up to 10 sessions of Physiotherapy per year with a private clinic. If you are eligible, only a portion of the cost per session can be billed to MSP for reimbursement. 

The MSP Supplementary Assistance Program only covers 10 visits per year for all paramedical services. This means that your maximum of 10 combined sessions can be used for services other than Physiotherapy as well. Massage therapy, acupuncture, or chiropractic care are some of the services that are covered with the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program. 

Knowing and understanding how the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program works can make a big difference in managing your healthcare expenses.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, if you are someone living in British Columbia and require physiotherapy, there may be coverage options available for you. From the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program to Extended Health Benefits provided through some employers, you can choose an option that best fits your needs and budget. 

Remember, taking care of your health is vital, and with proper health coverage, you can access the treatment you need to improve your overall well-being.

FAQS

• Does MSP cover physiotherapy for seniors?

MSP does cover physiotherapy for seniors that qualify under the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program. However, there may still be a proportion of the physiotherapy fee that is not covered and there are limitations on the number of sessions covered by MSP. It’s important for seniors to understand their coverage options and to consider investing in additional private health insurance plans to ensure coverage and access to the care they need.

• How do I apply for MSP Coverage?

In order to be approved for the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program for medical coverage, you must first be enrolled in British Columbia’s MSP Program. From there, you may be eligible based on your annual income. Health Insurance BC will be able to confirm if you are eligible for the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program and can assist with any application questions. 

• What does MSP cover?

The MSP Supplementary Assistance Program assists with the costs for services such as Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy, Chiropractic Care and Acupuncture. MSP only covers a portion of the cost of your visit for up to a maximum of 10 visits per year combined across all services. 

• Can you check if I am covered by MSP?

Our Client Care Coordinators can help you determine if you are covered by MSP. If you call one of our clinic locations, we will just need some of your personal details including your Personal Health Number (PHN) and birth date. We can then check our systems and see if you are eligible for the MSP Supplementary Assistance Program and confirm if you have used any visits this year and the number of visits available

About Cindy Gilray Reg. P.T

Cindy Gilray is an accomplished physiotherapist dedicated to revitalizing lives through movement. With a Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy from the University of Alberta (2000) and more than 20 years in private practice, Cindy’s expertise encompasses motor vehicle and workplace injuries, pediatrics, and sports injuries. Her skills extend to Acupuncture/IMS, pre/post-operative rehab, and treating a variety of sports injuries. Certified in Acupuncture, Level 3 Orthopedic manual therapy, and Gunn IMS, Cindy’s lifelong learning journey enhances her client care.

Looking for Physiotherapy in Richmond (Steveston)?

our experienced team at Richmond Steveston Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic can help. We specialize in Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy, Chiropractic Care and Acupuncture. Give us a call or book an online appointment today.