One of the most common questions we hear is whether Manitoba Health pays for physiotherapy. The short answer is that routine visits to a private physiotherapy clinic are usually not covered by Manitoba Health. There are important exceptions, and several other ways to pay. Here is how it works.
Routine private clinic visits
Most physiotherapy at community clinics in Winnipeg is paid in one of three ways:
- Extended health benefits: many workplace and private plans cover a set amount of physiotherapy each year.
- MPI or WCB claims: if you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision or at work.
- Paying privately: you pay the clinic directly, and may be able to claim the cost as a medical expense on your income tax return.
Physiotherapy provided in hospital, or as part of some public health programs, is arranged through the health system rather than booked privately.
Hip and knee replacement physiotherapy
Manitoba provides coverage for a limited number of outpatient physiotherapy visits after eligible elective hip and knee replacement surgeries. At the time of writing, eligible patients can receive up to six individual or ten group sessions at participating private clinics, and the program can top up partial private coverage. Eligibility rules and participating clinics can change, so confirm the current details with your surgical team and with the clinic before booking.
See our pre and post-surgical rehabilitation service.
Using extended health benefits
Before your first visit, check:
- your annual physiotherapy maximum and any per-visit limit
- whether your plan requires a doctor's referral to reimburse visits
- whether the clinic can bill your insurer directly
Pro-Motion offers direct billing to many insurers. Direct billing is a convenience, not a guarantee that every visit is fully covered. Read direct billing physiotherapy in Winnipeg.
After a car accident or work injury
- MPI: after a collision, open a claim with Manitoba Public Insurance and bring your claim number to your first appointment. Read preparing for MPI physiotherapy.
- WCB: if you were hurt at work, report the injury to your employer and the Workers Compensation Board. Read WCB physiotherapy in Winnipeg.
Do you need a referral?
You can book physiotherapy directly in Manitoba without seeing a doctor first. Some insurance plans still ask for a referral before they reimburse you. Learn more: Do you need a referral for physiotherapy in Winnipeg?
Questions? Ask us before you book
Our front desk can explain current fees, appointment lengths and what information your insurer may need. Call (204) 560-2999, visit our insurance page, or book online.
Pro-Motion Physiotherapy is at Unit 4 - 567 St. Anne's Road in Meadowood, St. Vital, with evening and weekend appointments.
Sources and further information
- Winnipeg Regional Health Authority: joint replacement post-op physiotherapy FAQ
- Manitoba Health: post-operative physiotherapy FAQ
- Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba
- Manitoba Public Insurance
This article is general information, not financial or insurance advice. Coverage depends on your plan and current provincial programs.