Does Extended Health Cover Massage Therapy in Parksville, BC?
If you have extended health benefits and you have been putting off booking a massage, there is a good chance your plan already covers it. Here is what you need to know before you book.
Most Extended Health Plans Cover RMT Treatments
In British Columbia, Registered Massage Therapists complete a minimum of 3,000 hours of training and must pass provincial board exams before they can practice. Because of this regulated status, most extended health benefit plans in Canada cover treatments provided by an RMT.
That includes plans through employers, union benefits, and private insurers like Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, Great-West Life, Manulife, Green Shield, and Telus Health, among others. Coverage amounts vary by plan but typically range from $300 to $1,000 per year for massage therapy.
If you are not sure what your plan covers, the quickest way to find out is to log into your benefits portal or call the number on the back of your benefits card and ask specifically about registered massage therapy coverage.
What Is Direct Billing and Do Your RMTs Offer It?
Direct billing means your RMT submits the claim to your insurance provider on your behalf after your appointment. Instead of paying the full amount out of pocket and waiting to be reimbursed, you only pay whatever your plan does not cover, right at the clinic.
At Parksville Wellness Collective, our Registered Massage Therapists offer direct billing to Pacific Blue Cross. If your plan is through Pacific Blue Cross, you can book your appointment and we will handle the paperwork.
If your insurer is not on our direct billing list, you will pay at the time of your appointment and receive a receipt to submit to your benefits provider for reimbursement. Most plans process reimbursements within a few business days.
Do You Need a Doctor’s Referral for Massage Therapy in BC?
In most cases, no. You can book directly with an RMT in BC without a referral from your doctor. Some extended health plans do require a referral before they will reimburse you, so it is worth checking your specific plan before your first visit if reimbursement is your goal.
What Conditions Does Massage Therapy Cover?
Registered Massage Therapy is used to treat a wide range of conditions including chronic pain, muscle tension, sports injuries, postural issues, headaches, stress, and recovery from surgery or illness. It is also commonly used for general relaxation and maintenance of overall physical health.
Your RMT will complete a health history intake at your first appointment and build a treatment plan based on your specific needs and goals.
How to Book an RMT in Parksville
Parksville Wellness Collective has Registered Massage Therapists available throughout the week including weekends.
To check availability and book your appointment, visit our booking page or call the clinic directly at 250-954-8206.