- What should I expect during my first visit to a clinic?
- Are referrals required to see a physiotherapist?
- Where do Physiotherapists work?
- What does a Physiotherapist do?
- Who are the vital people in keeping actively healthy?
1. What should I expect during my first visit to a clinic?
- Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment. You will need this time to register all pertinent information. If your physiotherapy treatment is covered by:
- WCB - bring your WCB claim number along and adjudicator's name with a referral if you have one. If you have not yet received your claim number please notify the clinic office when you do.
- MPI - bring your Bodily Injury Claim number and your adjuster's name along with a referral if you have one.
- BLUE CROSS or other PRIVATE INSURANCE PLANS - please be prepared to settle your account with us after each treatment. Cash, Cheque, Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most clinics. Direct billing to your insurance company can be arranged when possible.
- Please bring along comfortable clothing, i.e. gym shorts and a loose T-shirt are appropriate for most treatments, running shoes may be needed.
- Bring a list of all medications and what they are being taken for.
- Be sure to make the physiotherapist aware of pacemakers, allergies, pregnancy or any other health precautions, or conditions such as diabetes, circulatory or cardiac problems.
- Should you have to cancel for any reason please notify our office 24 hours in advance, or as early as possible. Cancellation charges may apply for insufficient notice.
- Your initial visit may take an hour or longer. Your physiotherapist will discuss with you what to expect on subsequent visits.
2. Are referrals required to see a physiotherapist?
In Manitoba treatment from a physiotherapist does not require a physician referral. However, many insurance companies require a doctor's referral before they will cover the costs of physiotherapy services.
3. Where do Physiotherapists work?
As an integral part of the healthcare team, physiotherapists practice as clinicians in private clinics and hospital settings, researchers, teachers, consultants and administrators in many medical specialty areas. Physiotherapists practice within a broad spectrum of settings, which include:
- Private Clinics
- Industrial settings
- Child development Centres
- Sports Medicine Facilities
- Long term/Palliative Care Centres
- Home Care Programs
- Schools/Universities
- Occupational Health Centres
- Insurance Companies
- Sporting Events/field settings
- Hospitals
- Rehabilitation Centres
- Public Health Units
- Recreation Centres
- Research Facilities
- Volunteer Organizations
- Government Agencies
- Regional Health Authorities
- Workplaces
4. What does a Physiotherapist do?
Physiotherapy is a professional healthcare discipline directed primarily toward the prevention or alleviation of movement dysfunction in people of all ages.
Evaluate your condition through a thorough physical assessment of pain, functional limitation, disabilities, or other health related concerns.
Performs specific tests and measures are incorporated into history taking to establish a diagnosis, formulate a goal-oriented treatment strategy and implement selected treatment protocols, formulate treatment plan designed to meet an overall objective of treating pain, preventing disability and increasing your ability to function to the highest possible level of independence.
5. Who are the vital people in keeping actively healthy?
Yourself and your physiotherapist!
Physiotherapy is an integral component of primary healthcare. As a profession, we are evolving to expand and enhance our contribution to the ever-changing picture of the health care system, and to you the client.
As a client, you are the key player of the team effort between you and your physiotherapist. The physiotherapist serves you by providing an educated assessment of your condition. Together you and your physiotherapist will develop a goal-directed treatment strategy that will ease your pain and improve your function. Together you will progress to the greatest extent of your health and well being possible.