Using Health Insurance for Physiotherapy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Policies vary, but the process is usually the same. Here is how to use your cover without the admin headaches.
Step 1: Check What Your Policy Covers
Start with your policy documents or your insurer's member portal. Look for what is covered for outpatient physiotherapy, any limit on sessions or total cost, and the excess you will need to pay. If you are covered through your employer, your HR team or benefits portal will show the details.
Step 2: Find Out Whether You Need a Referral
Some insurers now allow self-referral for physiotherapy, while others ask for a GP or consultant referral first. This differs by insurer and by policy, so check before you book rather than assume. Our guide to GP referral for physiotherapy explains the different routes.
Step 3: Get Authorisation
Most insurers issue an authorisation or claim code once they agree to fund a set number of sessions. This is usually needed before treatment begins, so it is best to obtain it before your first appointment. Have your policy number and a brief description of your symptoms to hand when you call.
Step 4: Choose Your Clinic
Most insurers let you choose where you are treated. Be ready to give them the clinic's name and address: JW Physio Clinic, Ambrose House, 2 Old Station Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 4PE.
Step 5: Your First Appointment
Tell us at the time of booking that your treatment is insurance-funded and which insurer you are with, so paperwork and billing are set up correctly from the start. Your first appointment is the same thorough assessment every patient receives, however treatment is funded.
Excess, Invoicing and Running Out of Sessions
Your policy excess is set by your insurer and your plan, and any shortfall between what they pay and the cost of treatment is generally payable by you. Billing arrangements vary between insurers, so confirm yours before you start. If your authorised sessions run out and you need more, we can provide a short clinical update to support a request for further cover, or you are welcome to continue as a self-paying patient.
Insurer Guides
We commonly see patients funded by the following insurers, and have a dedicated page for each:
If your insurer is not listed, get in touch and we will confirm whether we can support your claim. See our insurance page for more.
Insurance Enquiries
Let us know your insurer and policy details when you book and we will take care of the rest.
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