Physiotherapy plays a critical role in the recovery and rehabilitation of people with injuries. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) covers rehabilitation treatments including physiotherapy for motor vehicle accident victims. The board has announced new regulations, effective from April 1, 2019. Surrey Sports Physio is providing ICBC physiotherapy to patients injured in accidents without any user fee or surcharge. We will bill the fee directly to ICBC with a valid claim number.
We have a highly dedicated and experienced staff, led by physiotherapist Grant Gibson. For the past 33 years, we have been helping Surrey residents get ICBC coverage for treatments.
The Benefits we provide under the New ICBC Regulations
ICBC took counsel from doctors of BC for developing the new regulations, effective from April 1, 2019.The changes give more clinical autonomy to physicians via increased pre-authorized accident benefits. It also introduces new and updated treatment fees for our physicians, which recognizes the extra time often needed to care for ICBC patients.
The new provisions in place include:
New Pre-Authorized Treatments and Services
People injured in automobile accidents will have access to 25 pre-approved physiotherapy treatments within 12 weeks of the accident.
An Initial Assessment Visit and Report
An initial assessment report shows the diagnosis of the accident victim’s injuries and the recommended treatment. ICBC has combined assessment visits and reports fees for convenience. After our physiotherapist or medical practitioner formulates a diagnosis, an initial assessment report will be sent to ICBC. This will be completed within a reasonable time from the first visit.
No User Fee Charges
Previously, patients were charged for treatments; they received a claim number and had to pay a part of the fee. Under the new regulations, patients will no longer have to pay. Check out our website to know more about ICBC physio claims in Surrey Sports Physio.
Up to $1,000 in Coverage for Other Services and Supplies
Patients have up to $1,000 in coverage for cases where their medical practitioner recommends other services.
Wage Loss Payments
The provincial government and ICBC increased the wage loss payments for injured drivers, passengers and pedestrians to a maximum of $740 per week. Previously, injured patients could receive a maximum of $300 per week as wage loss payments.
$5,500 Limit on Pain and Suffering Payouts for Minor Injuries
A limit of up to $5,500 has been set on payouts for pain and suffering for minor injuries. This is for any new claims and does not apply to major injuries. It is also separate from any benefits or treatments needed for recovery. Our medical practitioner will diagnose the injury to determine whether it is minor or not.
Treatment Guidelines
Patients need to initiate treatment as soon as they receive their ICBC claim number. They will have 12 weeks from the accident date to benefit from the pre-authorized services. If it gets beyond this period, future treatments will need a family doctor’s referral and will be subject to ICBC’s approval.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and are looking for an ICBC physio, you can rely on Surrey Sports Physio. We offer a wide range of services and therapies for your conditions. Call us at 604581 1911 to book an appointment.