What is Physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a health care profession that helps people restore, maintain, and maximize movement, function, and overall well-being. Physiotherapists assess, diagnose, and treat symptoms from injury, illness, or chronic conditions. Physiotherapy includes rehabilitation, injury prevention, and health promotion. The terms “physiotherapy” and “physical therapy” are interchangeable, as are “physiotherapist” and “physical therapist.”
Do I need a doctor's referral to attend physiotherapy?
Nope! Physiotherapy is a direct-access service, which means you can book and attend appointments on your own without a referral from a doctor. This allows you to start care quickly and directly with your physiotherapist. Some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so we recommend checking with your provider to understand the specifics of your plan before booking.
Do you direct bill insurance companies?
Yes! We can directly bill a majority of insurance plans for physiotherapy services. This includes Canada Life, Great-West Life, Blue Cross, Sunlife, Green Shield, GMS, Manulife, Desjardins, and The Chamber, among others.
Coverage for treatment varies depending on your individual plan, and may include partial or full reimbursement. You are responsible to pay any remaining balance after direct billing to your primary insurance provider.
Please note: we are only able to directly bill the primary insurance plan. You will be provided a receipt which you can submit to any secondary insurance plans. We recommend confirming your plan’s coverage details and requirements, as not all plans are eligible for direct billing.
My doctor or surgeon referred me. Is this covered under Saskatchewan Health?
No. Services at Nova Physiotherapy are not covered under Saskatchewan Health. We can direct bill most insurance companies or accept cash, credit, or debit. You will receive a receipt that can be used for insurance claims or tax purposes.
Do you treat workplace injuries and SGI injuries?
Yes! Our physiotherapists and chiropractor treat work injuries and motor vehicle accidents (SGI). If you have a claim number prior to your first appointment, please provide it to our administration team.
What will my first visit look like?
When you arrive at Nova Physiotherapy, you’ll be greeted at the front desk and asked to remove outdoor shoes if possible. If you haven’t completed your intake forms online, you’ll fill out a paper copy at the clinic. Your physiotherapist will begin by reviewing your health history and understanding your reason for attending.
The assessment will involve observing how you move, testing joints and muscles, and identifying any weaknesses or restrictions. Based on this, your physiotherapist will explain their findings, recommend a treatment plan, and answer any questions you have. Treatment may include hands-on techniques like joint mobilization, massage, stretching, and exercise instruction for home. Throughout your session, we encourage you to ask questions and collaborate on your treatment plan.
What should I wear or bring to my physiotherapy appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement. If you completed intake forms online, bring your insurance information or payment method. If completing forms in the clinic, also bring your HSN, a list of medications, and past medical information.
For certain treatments, it can be helpful for your physiotherapist to see the area being treated. For example, wearing shorts for knee therapy, a short-sleeve shirt for shoulder work, or being able to remove your shirt for back assessment. You can change in the clinic if needed. Clean indoor shoes are recommended if you’ll be exercising in the clinic.
How many physiotherapy sessions will I need?
It depends on your condition, your goals, and how your body responds to treatment. Some people notice improvements in just a few sessions, while others with more complex or chronic conditions may need ongoing care. At your first visit, your physiotherapist will assess your situation and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Is there anything I can do at home to help my recovery?
Yes! Your physiotherapist will provide exercises, strategies, and practical tips that you can safely do at home. These tools help reinforce progress made in the clinic, manage symptoms, and accelerate your recovery.
What is your cancellation policy?
For all physiotherapy appointments, providing less than 24 hours’ notice to change or cancel an appointment will result in a full appointment fee being charged. This fee cannot be billed to insurance providers and must be paid on or before your next visit.
Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed appointment leaves a gap in your therapist’s schedule, impacts your treatment plan and recovery, and prevents other clients from receiving care.
Please also note that arriving more than 10 minutes late to your scheduled appointment may be considered a late cancellation and a fee may apply if there is not sufficient time remaining to provide safe and effective treatment. While our therapists will always do their best to adjust their schedule to accommodate you, this is not always possible. We kindly ask that you respect your therapist’s time and the care of other clients.
We understand that life can be busy and unforeseen circumstances do occur. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please speak with our front desk as soon as possible regarding your situation. With appropriate notice, we are always happy to accommodate changes to your appointment time whenever possible.
What safety measures are in place at the clinic?
Nova Physiotherapy follows strict cleaning and hygiene protocols. Hand sanitizer is readily available throughout the clinic. Staff maintain regular hand hygiene and stay home if unwell. Masking is client-directed; your physiotherapist will wear a mask if you prefer, to ensure your comfort.
