Frequently Asked Questions
Is Telehealth physiotherapy secure?
Yes, Jane software is secure, encrypted and compliant with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) of Canada. We do NOT record or store audio or video and all electronic audio and video communication will be encrypted in transit.
What is Telehealth physiotherapy?
Telehealth physiotherapy allows you to connect with your physiotherapist via LIVE video chat! This eliminate the need to travel as the barrier to accessing physiotherapy services. While in person visits are essential in some cases, there are many scenarios in which virtual visits can provide the same standard of care. Start working towards your goals now!
Will my insurance pay for Telehealth physiotherapy?
Most extended health insurance providers cover Telehealth/Tele-rehabilitation physiotherapy sessions including:
- Canada Life
- Sun Life Canada
- Manulife
- Johnson Inc.
- Green Shield Canada
- Pacific Blue Cross (only for existing patients first seen in-person)
If your insurance provider is not listed above, we recommend that you contact them directly to ask if they cover virtual online physiotherapy appointments.
Where can you provide Telehealth physiotherapy services?
We are currently able to provide online Telehealth services to individuals living anywhere in the province of British Columbia.
How does Telehealth physiotherapy work?
All you need is an internet connection, access to a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer, and to follow these instructions:
- Book your Telehealth appointment online. We do require a credit card on file to complete your booking.
- Complete your intake form by following the link in your booking confirmation email. Please take the time to complete this prior to your appointment.
- You will receive an Appointment Reminder email 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Click the button at the bottom of the email to begin.
- It is recommended that you use a laptop with a webcam for your appointment and specifically the Chrome web browser. You can also use an iOS device (iPhone or iPad) by downloading the Jane Online Appointments app from the app store.
We may experience technical difficulties using Telehealth technologies. Your physiotherapist will patiently guide you through any troubleshooting. Should we loose connection, we will try and re-establish connection, we may also continue the appointment by phone.
What is arthritis?
There are over 100 types of arthritic conditions. These conditions can involve inflammation of joints and other areas of the body. Inflammation, if not controlled, can result in irreversible damage, loss of function and disability. Arthritis is a chronic condition but with the right treatment it can be properly managed.
How can physiotherapy help my arthritis?
The right advice makes a big difference when it comes to your health. Seeing a Physiotherapist who has expertise in treating arthritis will help you better understand your condition, reduce your pain and improve your movement.
What is physiotherapy?
Simply put physiotherapy helps people move and feel better.
Your physiotherapist will conduct a detailed assessment and provide you with a physiotherapy diagnosis and treatment plan. Typically, sessions include some form of manual therapy, exercise and education to help you better understand your issue and how to best help yourself.
Is physiotherapy right for me?
If you have physical discomfort, physiotherapists can generally help. If we can’t, we will refer you to a medical professional who can.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the issue being treated. Your physiotherapist will be able to give you an estimated timeline after your initial assessment. Our goal is to help our patients achieve their physical goals in as few sessions as possible.
What is Intramuscular Stimulation or IMS?
IMS is an evidence based dry needling technique that is effective in treating chronic pain of neuropathic origin.
Sometimes pain can persist despite the original injury having healed. Muscle shortening can be the cause of this pain and by inserting a dry needle into a tight muscle the tension can be released.
If you are interested in IMS your physiotherapist will discuss the risks and benefits of this treatment prior to seeking your consent.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No, physiotherapists are primary health care practitioners and you don’t need a referral.
Is physiotherapy covered by my extended benefits?
Most extended health plans cover physiotherapy. Should you have questions about whether or not physiotherapy is covered by your benefits, please contact your insurance provider prior to receiving a treatment.
Do you offer direct billing?
Yes! We provide direct billing to most insurance companies. As insurance companies’ medical coverage differs based on policy, you are ultimately responsible for any balance from the service provided that is not covered. Here are the companies we currently bill directly to:
- Pacific Blue Cross
- Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance
- Sun Life Financial
- Canada Life (formerly Great West Life)
- CINUP
- Cowan
- Desjardins Insurance
- First Canadian
- Industrial Alliance
- Johnson Inc.
- Johnston Group Inc.
- Manulife Financial
- Maximum Benefit
Where can I park at your clinic?
Paid parking is available at the back of Artus Health Centre and accessible via the alley off of Laurel St.
Does your clinic have an elevator?
Yes, elevator access is available from our parking lot and through the BioPro Biologics Pharmacy next door during regular business hours M-F 8-5; come to the 2nd floor labelled physicians. After 5:00pm the elevator is only accessible via our parking lot.
Your clinic doors are locked and I have an appointment. How do I get in?
For appointments after 5:00pm and on weekends please call the number posted on the front or back door and we’ll come let you in. If we don’t answer immediately it’s because we’re with another patient.
What is your cancellation policy?
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in the therapists day that could have been filled by another patient. As such, we require 24 hours notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. If you provide less than 24 hours notice or no show, you will be charged the full cost of your appointment. Please be aware that insurance companies will not pay for this charge.