Are your services covered under OHIP, MIS, HIBC?

When it comes to accessing the care in our clinics, a common question is whether the province’s health plan will cover the cost. Programs such as OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan), HIBC (Health Insurance British Columbia), Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) and MSI (Medical Services Insurance) typically do not cover the items or services offered at BioPed for your foot health. Fortunately, coverage for treating your foot-related conditions such as plantar fasciitis and diabetes is often available through third-party insurance plans and other government programs. We’ve got the differences outlined below on how these options can lend a hand when it comes to managing your foot pain and discomfort.

Where most people will find coverage for their treatment plan at BioPed is through their health insurance or extended health benefits. These plans are typically offered through your place of work and provide coverage or reimbursement for healthcare services and medical items. Each BioPed clinic is well-equipped to create and provide the necessary paperwork required for an insurance claim. \

While there is no fee for assessments with Certified Pedorthists, most BioPed clinics have fees for appointments with a Registered Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse, and these fees could potentially be covered by your insurance plan. For more detailed information, we recommend reaching out to your local BioPed clinic directly. The clinical team at BioPed is always available to help you understand your plan coverage and provide valuable information when it comes to discussing with your insurance provider.

In addition to third-party insurance, various government programs beyond provincial health plans may offer coverage for BioPed products. Provincially funded disability programs such as ODSP, AADL and BCEA are examples of such initiatives, and we can coordinate with them to ensure you can access what funding might be available for you. In addition, some work-related injuries that are being managed by agencies like the WSIB, WCB – Alberta, WCB – Nova Scotia or WorkSafe BC may also provide funding for certain prescribed medical items. Our dedicated clinical team is equipped to assist you in navigating your coverage options available through these programs.

Contrary to some healthcare services, you do not need a referral to schedule an appointment with a BioPed Pedorthist. However, once a treatment plan is in place, it’s helpful to generate a quote for your insurance company to help you best understand coverage for specific medical items. Most insurance plans will require a prescription for specific devices like braces or custom orthotics before coverage can be provided, which is typically obtained from your family doctor or nurse practitioner (NP). Your BioPed clinic is happy to share a detailed report of your appointment with your doctor/NP, ensuring they are kept in the loop when it comes to managing your foot health and wellness.

Skin and toenail services, such as those provided by a Chiropodist or Footcare Nurse may require a referral per your benefit plan. We recommend that you contact your insurer to understand your obligations prior to your first visit.

For those who are unable to access third-party insurance or government assistance, we are still willing and able to help. At BioPed, we begin with an assessment to determine the cause of your pain and look for ways to help to improve it. We are committed to finding solutions for your pain relief or injury prevention, and we have a wide variety of affordable options in our clinics to create your very own treatment plan with us.

Take the proactive step toward better lower limb health by scheduling a visit to BioPed. As the largest network of lower limb care providers in Canada, serving over a million Canadians in the past four decades, we are dedicated to providing quality care and solutions for your foot, leg and knee health needs. Don’t delay—discover why BioPed is a trusted name in lower limb health today!