The Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia says changes proposed by ICBC are a huge plus.
CEO Christine Bradstock says early interventions being proposed is a key change.
“Physiotherapists will be doing an assessment and a report. That assessment is always critical when you first see a patient coming into the office,” she said. “Having that patient come in early, and getting them going with a proper assessment and treatment will be critical to a recovery, and hopefully a fully functioning recovery.”
The number of pre-authorized treatments will also increase to 25, from 20, with more if needed.
Bradstock also says treatment fees will be paid directly by ICBC, instead of people having to pay a portion of it, and then trying to recoup the costs.
“The old compensation was $23 and so they’ve brought that up to fair market value,” added Bradstock.
“Being paid directly from ICBC will ensure that it’s much easier for the person who is injured to go and get the treatment, and not have to pay for part of it themselves, and then turn to ICBC and try to recoup that money.”
She adds the model is moving in the right direction.
The new regulations come into effect on April 1, 2019.