If you live in Vancouver or North Vancouver and wonder, “Is Registered Massage Therapy (RMT) covered by insurance?” you’re not alone. RMT is a widely used treatment for stress, injury recovery, and pain relief. This article breaks down how insurance applies to RMT treatments in BC, with a focus on both public and private insurance plans available to local residents.
What Is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)?
A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a licensed healthcare professional in British Columbia, regulated by the College of Massage Therapists of BC. RMTs complete at least 2,200 hours of accredited training and are authorized to assess and treat various physical conditions.
Insurance plans typically only reimburse services provided by RMTs—not spa or relaxation massage therapists. Always verify that your provider is a licensed RMT to ensure eligibility for insurance reimbursement.
Is RMT Covered by MSP in British Columbia?
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC does not cover regular RMT sessions for most residents. However, if you qualify for MSP Premium Assistance (typically low-income individuals), you may be eligible for $23 per visit for up to 10 visits per year to RMTs and other supplementary health services. The RMT must be registered with MSP to apply this benefit. Any remaining treatment cost beyond the $23 subsidy must be paid out of pocket.
Does Extended Health Insurance Cover RMT in Vancouver?
Yes, most extended health insurance plans in BC do cover Registered Massage Therapy as part of their paramedical benefits. These include workplace plans and private plans through providers like:
- Pacific Blue Cross
- Sun Life
- Manulife
- Canada Life
- Green Shield Canada
Common RMT Insurance Coverage Features:
- Annual coverage limits: Typically between $300 to $1,000 per year
- Reimbursement type: Some plans pay 100% per visit up to a cap, others cover a percentage (e.g., 80%)
- Referral requirement: Most plans do not require a doctor’s referral, but some exceptions apply
- Direct billing availability: Many RMT clinics in Vancouver and North Vancouver offer direct billing, so patients don’t have to pay upfront
Who Is Typically Eligible for RMT Insurance Coverage?
RMT coverage under private or public insurance is typically available to:
- Employees with extended health benefits
- Individuals with personal private insurance plans
- People with approved claims through ICBC or WorkSafeBC
- Low-income residents approved for MSP Premium Assistance
If you are a new immigrant from a developing country such as Iran and have recently moved to British Columbia, you may qualify for public insurance programs after a waiting period, or be eligible for private health benefits through work or individual plans.
Many newcomers find it helpful to visit reputable Iranian RMT clinics in Vancouver and North Vancouver, such as Capilano, which offer trusted care and often provide services in Farsi. These clinics also typically support direct billing to make the process easier.
Is RMT Covered by ICBC and WorkSafeBC?
ICBC Coverage:
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, ICBC automatically pre-approves 12 RMT sessions within the first 12 weeks of your accident. ICBC pays up to $120 for the initial assessment and $95 for each follow-up session. Many clinics offer direct billing to ICBC.
WorkSafeBC Coverage:
If you’re injured at work and have an approved WorkSafeBC claim, you may receive:
- An initial assessment
- Up to 6 RMT sessions in 8 weeks without prior approval
WorkSafeBC pays RMTs directly. Additional treatment beyond 6 sessions requires pre-authorization.
Additional Special Coverage:
- Veterans Affairs Canada may offer RMT coverage for eligible veterans
- RCMP health benefits can include generous coverage for massage therapy services
How to Check and Use Your RMT Insurance Benefits
- Review your policy: Confirm RMT is included, note annual and per-visit limits, and check if a referral is required
- Ask about direct billing: Many RMT clinics in Vancouver and North Vancouver offer this service
- Track your claims: Use your insurer’s app or portal to monitor usage and avoid exceeding your limits
- Keep your receipts: For manual claims, always save your RMT receipts and Explanation of Benefits (EOBs)
Final Thoughts
So, is RMT covered by insurance in Vancouver? For most patients, the answer is yes – particularly through extended health plans and accident-related coverage via ICBC or WorkSafeBC. While BC’s public health plan (MSP) offers minimal support, private plans usually offer substantial RMT coverage. Always confirm your plan details, and consider choosing a clinic that offers direct billing to make your experience smoother.
