Private health insurance: Does your client still need a doctor’s note for reimbursement?
![Private health insurance: Does your client still need a doctor's note for reimbursement?](https://www.cheapsr22.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1724076134_Private-health-insurance-Does-your-client-still-need-a-doctors.jpg)
Private health insurance: Does your client still need a doctor’s note for reimbursement? | Insurance Business Canada
Life & Health
Private health insurance: Does your client still need a doctor’s note for reimbursement?
Policyholders urged to confirm with their carriers
Life & Health
By
Terry Gangcuangco
Private health insurance policyholders in Nova Scotia are advised to confirm with their insurers whether a doctor’s note is still required for services such as massages, physiotherapy, or chiropractic care in a bid to help free up doctors’ time.
CBC News cited the Department of Health and Wellness as previously saying that fewer than 10% of private health insurance plans in the province require a referral for those services.
In a recent confirmation, the department shared with CBC News that the information was sourced from the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA). A department spokesperson explained that the shift away from requiring a doctor’s referral for reimbursement is in line with best practices for insurers.
CLHIA group benefits vice president Joan Weir commented: “Our impression is there’s a real misunderstanding out there on behalf of patients and perhaps on behalf of prescribers and physicians that everybody needs a referral, and that’s simply not true.”
According to Weir, data from CLHIA member companies shows that only 3% to 18% of insurers or employer groups still mandate referral notes.
She added: “Most people who have private benefits through an employer will have a portal that they can log into and access the information as to whether a referral is required. And if in doubt, go to your employer and ask, because they will for sure know.”
What do you think about this story? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Stories
Keep up with the latest news and events
Join our mailing list, it’s free!