Publicly-Funded Physiotherapy

In Saskatchewan, some physiotherapy services are covered by our provincial healthcare system. Some regions provide outpatient physiotherapy for certain conditions through local hospitals; however, there are often lengthy wait times to receive care. Please contact your local physiotherapy outpatient clinic to find out more information on wait times. Search our Find a Physio directory to learn more about services in your region. These times can vary based on your condition.

If you are scheduled for orthopaedic surgery (such as for a knee or hip replacement), you will most likely receive some inpatient physiotherapy following the surgery. You may also be referred for outpatient physiotherapy once you are released from hospital to assist with your recovery. Other examples of people who receive referrals for physiotherapy within the public health system include young children with chronic conditions such as cerebral palsy or cystic fibrosis and or those requiring extensive rehabilitation programs after severe strokes, spinal cord injuries or head injuries.

Privately-Funded Physiotherapy and Third Party Insurance Providers

Individuals can easily access private physiotherapy: simply call or visit your local physiotherapy clinic. Search our Find a Physio directory to learn more about services in your region. No physician referral is required. Physiotherapy clinics in Saskatchewan are continuing managing resources to minimize wait times to receive treatment allowing timely access to care. In addition, physiotherapy is commonly included as one of the eligible benefits that group health insurance programs cover. Take note, however, because the benefit may be capped at a specific maximum amount per year , after which you will be required to pay out-of-pocket. While it is increasingly rare, some insurance companies still require a physician referral before they will reimburse physiotherapy treatment expenses. Make sure you fully understand the terms of your insurance before starting treatment.

Saskatchewan workers who are injured on the job and are insured under the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board may receive physiotherapy services covered by their employer’s WCB insurance program. Work related injuries must be reported to employers and WCB. Injured workers can then go directly to a physiotherapist. There is no need for a referral from a doctor.

SGI insurance coverage provides financial coverage for some physiotherapy services for automobile accident-related injuries. Accidents are reported to SGI and coverage can be confirmed by SGI. SGI clients or those injured in an accident with SGI coverage can go directly to a physiotherapist for services.

Physiotherapists must advise you of any cost for treatment before they start treating you, and they should be open to discussing the approximate number of treatments you should require once an initial assessment has been completed. If you are in doubt about your coverage and potential costs, talk to your physiotherapist, physician, insurance company, or, if applicable, facility director (e.g., hospital, extended-care facility).

Physiotherapy Regulation

In Canada, physiotherapy is a regulated profession. An individual cannot offer physiotherapy services or claim to be a physiotherapist unless they have met the profession’s rigorous educational and licensing requirements including successful completion of national licensing exams. Regulation by an organization of professional peers ensures that physiotherapists maintain the highest standards of quality care and that the public is protected through a complaints process. For more information about professional regulation, please click on the following links:

Saskatchewan College of Physical Therapists

Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators