Is a physician's referral necessary to book an appointment?

A. No. For physiotherapy and occupational therapy, an assessment and treatment may be provided without a physician’s referral under the Regulated Health Professions Act. However, we advise you to check your Extended Health Benefits to determine what coverage is available to you to cover physiotherapy services, and if a physician’s referral is needed to access your benefits. The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) does not require a physician’s referral for physiotherapy related to work injuries. Physiotherapists, along with other regulated health professionals can complete the Form 8 as the initiating health practitioner for submission to WSIB. A referral is not necessary for counseling. Occupational Therapy and counseling with Social Workers typically are not covered by Extended Health Coverage.