Understanding Extended Health Benefits Coverage in Ontario

No Referral Needed for Most Services

If you're exploring care options like physiotherapy, massage therapy, or osteopathic manual therapy, you might be wondering how insurance works. In Ontario, most extended health benefit plans do not require a doctor's referral to access these services. While some insurance providers may ask for a referral to approve reimbursement, the majority allow you to book directly and submit your receipt for coverage.

Always review the details of your specific plan to confirm any referral requirements.

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Insurance Providers That Offer Coverage

Here are common insurance companies in Ontario that typically cover services like physiotherapy, massage therapy, and osteopathy under extended health benefits:

• Manulife

• Sun Life

• Canada Life (formerly Great-West Life)

• Green Shield Canada (GSC)

• Blue Cross

• Desjardins Insurance

• ClaimSecure

• Empire Life

• Equitable Life

• Industrial Alliance

• Johnson Insurance

• Medavie Blue Cross

• SSQ Insurance

• Standard Life

• The Co-operators

  
  

Coverage can vary depending on whether you're on a group plan or an individual plan. Be sure to:

- Check your benefits booklet or online portal.

- Look under "Paramedical Services" for categories like physiotherapy, massage therapy, and osteopathy.

- Confirm if your plan requires practitioners to be members of recognized professional associations.

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Typical Coverage Amounts

Most plans include coverage in one of the following formats:

- A set dollar amount per year (e.g., $500 per discipline annually)

- A per-visit cap (e.g., $50–$100 per appointment)

- A percentage reimbursement (e.g., 80% of each visit cost, up to a yearly maximum)

Our clinic provides detailed receipts including all necessary practitioner credentials to ensure smooth claim submissions.

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Direct Billing Options

At our clinic, we offer direct billing for most major insurers. This means less paperwork for you and quicker access to your coverage. Just bring your insurance card to your appointment, and we’ll take care of the rest.

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Why Use Your Benefits Before They Expire

Extended health benefits are an excellent way to invest in your physical health. Whether you're recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic discomfort, or simply looking to move better and feel better, services like physiotherapy, massage therapy, and osteopathy can make a real difference.

Many plans reset annually—so if you haven’t used your benefits yet, now is a great time to start.

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Take Advantage of Your Coverage

Extended health coverage is there to support your wellness. You don’t need to wait for a referral or live with pain. If you're unsure about your plan, our team is happy to guide you through what to check.

Book an appointment today and make the most of your benefits while prioritizing your well-being.