Do Insurance Companies Cover Physiotherapy for Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries?

Being involved in a car accident can be a lot to take in and process. In addition to the chaos and destruction of your vehicle, plus the mental and emotional toll, many Edmonton, AB, citizens find themselves very concerned. Personal injuries, injuries to other drivers, and subsequent medical costs needed to alleviate these injuries can be quite worrisome. So it comes as no surprise that one of the more frequently asked questions is, "Will my insurance company cover physiotherapy for my motor vehicle accident-related recovery?"

Fortunately, it's almost a definitive yes for all Alberta citizens! Whether you have basic car insurance or an upgraded policy through your auto insurance provider, there is typically coverage available for Motor Vehicle Accident Physiotherapy. Of course, this depends on the amounts covered, the duration of care, and the process to access this coverage. It depends on the injury, and most importantly, how quickly you start treatment. 

At Vira Physiotherapy in Edmonton, AB, we are not only professionals who deliver your vehicle accident recovery services, but we are also well-versed in acquiring MVA insurance claims. Let us assist you with professional Motor Vehicle Accident Physiotherapy services needed to get you back to your regular self!

The Process: Accessing Physiotherapy Coverage After Your MVA in Alberta

Receiving MVA coverage and navigating the claims process and physiotherapy coverage can be confusing, especially if you're already feeling confused due to injury! But do not panic; Vira Physiotherapy in Edmonton, AB, simplifies this for you. Below is a general overview of the process and where we help you along the way:

Step 1: Report the Accident & See a Health Professional (Ideally within 10 Days!)

It's essential to report your accident to the police after it happens (where necessary), and know that your automobile insurance must learn about the incident. When you visit the insurance office, be sure to obtain your claim number and your adjuster's contact information.

Alberta law states you can see any primary health care provider within ten days after your automobile accident. To meet the requirements to secure the "Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols" (DTPR)as soon as possible, we recommend getting an assessment with a physiotherapist, chiropractor, or medical doctor within this time frame. Bonus: you do NOT need a doctor's referral for Motor Vehicle Injury Physiotherapy at Vira Physiotherapy!

Step 2: Complete the AB-1 Form

Insurance companies provide their clients with the AB-1: Notice of Loss and Proof of Claim Form. They must fill this out and return it to the insurance company within 10 days of receiving it: if they cannot return it within 10 days, they should still complete the form and indicate why they couldn’t submit it within the time frame. 

Our clinic has years of experience with MVA forms and paperwork. We can help you fill this out properly, creating less stress for you in the end!

Step 3: Your Initial Assessment at Vira Physiotherapy

At your first appointment, our qualified physiotherapists will do a deep dive assessment of your injuries, including taking a medical history and a physical examination overview.

After our assessment, your physiotherapist will categorize your injury according to the DTPR. The most likely injury categories are:

  • WAD I (Whiplash Associated Disorder I): Minor neck pain, stiffness, or tenderness.
  • WAD II (Whiplash Associated Disorder II): Neck pain/stiffness, more obvious musculoskeletal signs such as reduced range of motion or tender points.
  • Sprains/Strains (Grades 1 & 2): Minor body concussions to arms/legsMore 
  • Severe Injuries (WAD III, WAD IV, Fractures, etc.): These go "out of protocol" and have a slightly different path of coverage, which we will discuss in the next step.

Step 4: Developing Your Treatment Plan (AB-2 Form)

If your injury falls under the DTPR (WAD I, WAD II, or Minor Sprains/Strains), your physiotherapist will complete an AB-2: Treatment Plan Form. The wonderful part about these “in protocol” injuries is that treatment is preauthorized with your auto insurer! Which means, there is NO WAITING period for insurer authorization to begin treatment! 

At Vira Physiotherapy, we will do this for you and speak with your insurance adjuster to ensure you can begin your motor vehicle injury physiotherapy as soon as possible with the appropriate insurer's coverage. 

Step 5: Receiving Your Motor Vehicle Injury Physiotherapy

DTPR Insurance Limits: 

  • WAD I & Minor Sprains/Strains (Grade 1 & 2): Preauthorized for up to 10 physiotherapy and/or chiropractic treatments within 90 days post-accident combined. 
  • WAD II: Preauthorized for up to 21 physiotherapy and chiropractic treatments — within 90 days post-accident combined. 
  • Adjunct Therapies: DTPR also allows for a combined total of $1000 for adjunct treatments, including massage therapy, psychology, occupational therapy, and acupuncture, if recommended and completed by your primary health care provider.

Why Trust Vira Physiotherapy for Your Motor Vehicle Accident Recovery in Edmonton?

When it comes to Motor Vehicle Injury Physiotherapy, choosing the right clinic is critical. Why come to Vira Physiotherapy?

  • We are Experienced in the MVA Physiotherapy Field
  • Knowledge of MVA Insurance and Treatment Processes
  • Comprehensive Evaluation with a Patient-Centric Approach
  • Experienced Physiotherapists Who Care
  • Targeted Treatment for Motor Vehicle-Related Injuries
  • Direct Billing to Car Insurance Companies
  • Support & Advocacy
  • Purposeful Treatments for Long-Term Recovery

Don't Delay: The Power of Early Intervention After an Accident

Don't let concerns about insurance coverage or potential wrongdoing stop you from receiving the healing treatment you require. Instead, contact Vira Physiotherapy in Edmonton, AB, to schedule your comprehensive assessment. Our trained staff will gently guide you through the insurance claim process and provide the empathetic Motor Vehicle Accident Physiotherapy you need to resume your life.