How to Claim Physiotherapy on Aviva, Bupa and Vitality

The Basics

If you have private medical insurance, either through work or your own policy, it may cover some or all of the cost of physiotherapy. Rules differ by insurer, by policy level and even by employer scheme, so the exact steps depend on you. This guide covers the common points and the questions to ask. It does not replace your policy wording or your insurer's advice.

The JW Physio Clinic team in Loughton, who can help with insurance-funded physiotherapy — JW Physio Clinic, Ambrose House, Old Station Road, Loughton

Step 1: Check Whether Your Policy Covers Physiotherapy

Look for outpatient physiotherapy or "therapies" in your policy summary. Some policies cover it in full, some up to a limit (for example a number of sessions or a monetary cap), and some only after a referral. Policies that offer a lower-cost "core" level may exclude outpatient treatment altogether.

Step 2: Ask About Referral and Authorisation

Many insurers ask you to call them before your first appointment to get an authorisation code or confirmation. Some allow you to self-refer to a physiotherapist, while others require a GP referral. Ask:

Do I need a GP referral, or can I self-refer?
Do I need an authorisation number before I book?
How many sessions will you authorise at a time?
Is the clinic recognised by you, and does it matter for my policy?

Step 3: Understand Your Excess and Limits

Your excess is the amount you pay before cover starts. Some policies apply an excess per claim or per year, and some apply a co-payment. Find out what you are likely to pay, and how much of your session limit is left.

Step 4: Booking With Us

You can book online or by phone. Let the team know that you are claiming on insurance, tell us your insurer and bring your membership details and authorisation number. Our insurance pages for Aviva, Bupa, Vitality, Cigna and WPA explain how we handle each.

Step 5: Keep a Record

Note the date and time of any calls to your insurer, the name of the person you spoke to and any reference or authorisation numbers. Keep a record of the number of sessions used, so you know when you are approaching the limit.

What If Cover Runs Out?

If your policy limit is reached and you need further treatment, speak to your physio about options. You may be able to continue as a self-paying patient, and your plan can be adjusted so that you progress with a home programme between sessions.

Can I Pay Myself and Claim Back?

Some insurers reimburse treatment if you pay yourself, but only if the rules are met, for example prior authorisation. Check with your insurer before you pay.

Common Reasons a Claim Is Delayed

Booking before authorisation was given
Not telling the clinic which insurer you are with
Missing membership numbers or authorisation codes
Exceeding the session limit without checking
A pre-existing condition that your policy excludes
Forgetting to pay the excess

A Quick Checklist Before Your First Appointment

Policy name, membership number and insurer's phone number to hand
Authorisation number, if required
Referral letter, if required
Understanding of your excess and session limit
A note of your symptoms and anything you have already tried

Frequently Asked Questions

Many Aviva policies include physiotherapy, but cover and referral rules depend on your policy. Check your policy documents or call Aviva before booking.

Many Bupa policies cover outpatient physiotherapy, usually with authorisation requirements. Check your policy or call Bupa first.

Vitality policies often include physiotherapy, although the terms, referral steps and limits depend on your plan. Check with Vitality before you book.

It depends on the insurer and policy. Some accept self-referral, some require a GP referral and some need you to phone for authorisation first.

Talk to the JW Physio Clinic team

Book an appointment at our Loughton clinic. No GP referral is needed, and same-week appointments are usually available.

Book an Appointment Insurance information and accepted insurers