Welcome to Alternative Physio!
Thanks for choosing Alternative Physio. I’ve put together some information to help you know what to expect based on the questions I am frequently asked. Feel free to ask additional questions at any time.
What does the name Alternative Physio mean?
I am a Registered Physiotherapist with 26+ years of experience. As a life- long learner I have continued my education in traditional Physiotherapy techniques as well as complementary skills such as Acupuncture, Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) including infants and children, Lymph Rehabilitation (LR), Process Acupressure (PA) and Myofascial Release (MFR) that I use within my scope as a Physiotherapist. The name Alternative Physio represents the range of traditional and alternative therapies available. I am also a certified as a CODE Model Coach and offer workshops and coaching to individuals outside of my Physiotherapy practice.
What are your fees?
The fees are not covered by OHIP but may be covered by your extended benefit plan. My fee is $85.00 for each session which lasts approximately 45 minutes. New assessments or 60 minute appointments are $110.00 There are no additional fees for acupuncture, CST, LR or MFR. There is a $5.00 charge for electrodes to use with electrotherapy. (They are for personal use only and can be used multiple times once you purchase them. I sell them at cost.)
It is highly recommended that you determine the following by checking with your extended benefit provider:
Do you require a doctor’s note? (It is not required to access care but your insurer may require it to reimburse you.)
What is your annual limit?
Is there a limit to the fee paid per visit or is there a co-payment required?
How many visits will I need?
Every person is unique so it is difficult to be sure how often and for how long treatment will be required to achieve your goals. A general rule is that older problems tend to take longer to get better. In most cases I recommend that new patients plan to attend treatment twice a week for 2 to 3 weeks. Once we know how you are responding to treatment, together we’ll determine if more treatment is needed and at what frequency. After completing your assessment I will have a better idea and will discuss the treatment plan with you before we proceed.
How do I begin?
We start with an assessment on your first visit to the clinic. We begin with an interview in order to get a sense of your physical concerns, the history of the problem and any relevant past medical history. We will also talk about your goals for treatment.
This is followed by a physical assessment. After that I will make some recommendations for treatment options and a treatment schedule and ask for your consent to proceed.
How does billing work?
Payment in full is expected at the end of each session and can be made by debit, credit, cheque or cash. Direct billing to your insurer may be possible. Please enquire with us.
What happens if I need to cancel or if I am running late?
I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice if you need to change your appointment. Sometimes things happen and I understand. The first 2 cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or failure to attend will be noted but not charged. After that you will be charged the full visit fee, which may not be paid by your insurer.
If you arrive late, every effort will be made to accommodate you in the time remaining. If there insufficient time for treatment you may be asked to reschedule.
Privacy
I respect the privacy of all clients and can promise you that your information will not be released to any third parties for solicitation. Your medical record and billing information is stored securely. When you sign the consent to treatment you are agreeing (unless you specify otherwise) that:
I can share relevant information with your other healthcare practitioners (e.g. physician, massage therapist, chiropractor) .
I can share relevant information with your insurance provider to substantiate your claim or verify your attendance if they request it.
I can use your email address to contact you regarding appointments.
Can I get copies of my health records if I need them?
Of course you can get a copy of your health record but the original must remain at the clinic. There is an administrative/photocopying fee of $20.00 and your request must be made in writing. Please allow 5 business days for your chart copy.
If you are planning to see your physician for follow up, please give me a couple of days notice so I can provide you with a progress note. At discharge I will provide a Discharge Summary to your physician. Copies will be on your chart and you can request a copy for your records. There is no fee for these reports.
Should I inform you if I am working with other health practitioners or alternative therapies?
It is your choice to inform me if you are working with other practitioners but it is very helpful if we can share information with each other to enhance your care, with your consent of course. Examples of other care providers I frequently work with in the community are massage therapists, chiropractors, naturopathic doctors, acupuncturists and personal trainers.
Thank you for choosing Alternative Physio. I hope this helps you feel comfortable with how the clinic works. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to ask me.
Anita Allen, BScPT