How Many Types Of Eye Doctors Are There?

August 5, 2021July 20, 2021 by Kevin

There are two main categories of eye doctors: opthamologists and optometrists. Opticians are also an important part of eye care but they are not medical doctors and are unable to give eye exams. Each of these professionals have different specialties and levels of training in certain areas. Often you will need more than one of these medical professionals to care for your ocular health. Here we will look at the difference between each type of eye doctor and when you should visit each.

Ophthalmologist: Advanced Eye Care and Surgery

An ophthalmologist is an eye care professional that treats and diagnoses eye diseases along with providing surgical options for certain conditions. Along with surgical solutions for eye trauma, vision correction, and cataracts, some also provide eye lifts for those with sagging eyelids or wrinkles around the eyes.

Type of Training: An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who will have gone through upwards of 8 years of training including medical school, internship and a residency.

Specialities: An ophthalmologist can treat and diagnose eye diseases including glaucoma, cataracts, various eye trauma and eye conditions caused by other medical problems such as vision loss due to diabetes. An ophthalmologist will also likely have a research role in finding information and treatments for eye concerns. This can sometimes give them more current knowledge and be better able to treat less common eye issues.

When to Visit: An ophthalmologist can be consulted for a wide range of eye issues, but they are the best option for when you need surgical intervention including laser eye treatment. Similarly, if you have a severe eye condition, such as diabetic retinopathy, an ophthalmologist is a better option than an optometrist who may not be able to deliver full treatment or who may not be able to prescribe certain drugs or perform surgery.

Optometrist: Primary Eye Care

An optometrist has many of the same treatment and diagnostic capabilities as an ophthalmologist. They are also medical doctors and can give basic eye exams, provide prescriptions, and advise on treatment. They, however, do not perform surgery.

Type of Training: Similar to ophthalmologists, optometrists attend four years of medical school. Where they differ, is that an optometrist will only have one year of residency versus four for an ophthalmologist. This training gives an optometrist many of the same abilities as an ophthalmologist with the primary exception of surgery.

Specialities: Optometrists can perform eye exams, make diagnoses and prescribe most medications. However, in some areas. an optometrist may not be able to prescribe certain drugs, especially opioids.

When to Visit: An optometrist is a good choice if you need an eye exam or have any kind of new vision trouble. One area where optometrists are especially adept is in specialty lens fittings. They typically have more expertise in this. If surgical intervention is required, your optometrist will likely refer you to an ophthalmologist.

Optician: Lens and Contacts

An optician, unlike an ophthalmologist or optometrist, is not a medical doctor. Instead, they typically receive a two year degree or sometimes a certificate. This education gives them the expertise to interpret recommendations and diagnoses from other eye care professionals and use this to recommend the right contacts or glasses for you.

Specialities: An optician is unable to give a diagnosis or an eye exam. However, they are experts in recommending contact lenses and glasses. They also expertly measure you to give you the ideal fit for your new glasses.

When to Visit: You will generally see an optician only once you have a glasses or contact prescription from another eye doctor. Anytime you need new glasses or if you find your current glasses or lense are causing you problems, an optician will be able to find you a solution.

Eye Specialists

Within the broad categories of ophthalmologists and optometrists, there are some eye doctors who specialize in particular problems including: pediatric ophthalmology, eye plastic surgery, neurology, retina specialist, glaucoma specialist, cornea specialists.

When to See an Eye Doctor

In many cases, both an optometrist and ophthalmologist can help with an eye problem. Their capabilities are very similar. With the exception of surgery and treatment of certain severe or complex eye problems, an optometrist is likely to be as beneficial as an ophthalmologist.

However, what if you are not sure if it is time to seek out professional eye care? Make an appointment with an optometrist or ophthalmologist if you are experiencing any of the following:

If you have not seen an eye doctor in more than two years (up to three years for adults up to 39)
Sudden blurry vision
Severe and frequent pain (mild pain on occasion is likely not cause for concern)
If your eye has experienced trauma from a foreign object such as dirt, grit or any kind of chemicals.
Seeing spots or “floaters” especially if they are accompanied with flashes of light or there appears to be a kind of partial curtain or film over your eye.
Sensitivity to light
Double vision
Poor night vision
Frequent headaches and eye strain
Signs of an infection including swollen, itchy eyelids and discoloration of the whites of your eyes.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes – diabetes can damage the blood vessels of the eye so regular exams are key to preventing and slowing this progression.
Any sudden and unexplainable changes to your vision.

Choosing the Right Eye Doctor for You

In many cases, unless you already have a very specific diagnosis, you can choose from both opthamologists and optometrists. Two factors that tend to be important to patient satisfaction are: doctor ratings and doctor availability. Research your doctor and look for high ratings and recommendations from those you trust. However, if you are experiencing eye problems now, it does you little good to find the highest rated doctor if they do not have appointments available for several months.

At BCML, we aim to offer eye care that meets your scheduling needs. To learn more and book an appointment, contact us at (416) 929-1900.

What is the Difference Between Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinic?

August 5, 2021July 15, 2021 by Kevin

Having the option to go to a medical facility for non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries is crucial in the province of Ontario, Canada. This is due to the fact that going to hospitals and waiting to be tended to by their staff and doctors may not be so convenient for issues that are not considered emergencies. Some people may be more comfortable going to hospitals where their regular doctors are working; however, there may be times where illnesses or injuries may happen at any given time and getting appointments with their regular physicians cannot wait. These are the scenarios where urgent care centers and walk-in clinics come into the picture. This article will show readers the importance and differences between these two types of medical facilities.

Important Things to Know About Walk-In Clinics

People may not realize it but walk-in clinics and urgent care centers have many similarities. One of the main things that make these types of medical facilities different from hospitals is due to the fact that they were created to handle patients without prior appointments. Also, they are meant to handle medical cases that do not threaten the lives of their patients. However, these types have their own differences that people should know so that they would not go through the hassle of going to a specific medical facility that may or may not be able to handle their illnesses or injuries. You may refer to the following list for some of the important things you should know about walk-in clinics, which includes the common reasons and medical issues that patients may have to get treated in walk-in clinics:

For those who are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), their visits to walk-in clinics will be covered. However, people should also know that there are only certain medical services that are covered by the OHIP. Dental services are some of the treatments that OHIP usually does not cover. If you are given prescription medication, the OHIP will not be able to cover them in a walk-in clinic setting. OHIP covers prescription medicines only in hospital settings. You should always inquire with the walk-in clinic to check if your treatment will be covered by your OHIP.
A walk-in clinic has a first come, first served rule. This is very important for those patients who need immediate attention from the physicians and staff working in walk-in clinics. Walk-in clinics give these patients options especially if they are unable to set immediate appointments with their regular doctors. Convenience is the main reason why patients would rather go to walk-in clinics than going to hospitals.
Since walk-in clinics handle medical cases that are not life-threatening in nature, there is less chance for patients to catch contagious diseases. Having fewer patients waiting in line to be served as compared to hospitals, walk-in clinics will not risk patients to get affected by illnesses from other patients.
Walk-in clinics have the capability to give assessments, treatments, and advice to patients. As long as the illnesses or injuries are minor in nature, walk-in clinics can effectively handle these cases. The doctors working in walk-in clinics can also prescribe medicines to patients, which is very convenient. Some walk-in clinics are situated inside or near pharmacies. This makes it possible for patients to purchase their needed medication as soon as they receive their prescriptions.
Walk-in clinics offer family doctor services. This makes it convenient for people of all ages to get treatment and assessments. With doctors who specialize in family medicine, walk-in clinics are known to be all-in-one medical facilities. This is because these doctors have the skills and knowledge to diagnose and treat multiple types of medical issues. Patients may go to walk-in clinics to get checked for common colds, allergies, and other non-life-threatening ailments.
For patients who have issues in relation to their eyes, walk-in clinics offer the professional services of optometrists. Walk-in clinics provide patients with eye exams and health checks to diagnose their needs and requirements for getting prescription glasses. It is also known that an eye exam can also be a way to determine if a patient may have other diseases. Some diseases like heart problems, high blood pressure, sickle cell anemia, and diabetes show signs in a patient’s eye before these diseases manifest in other areas.
Dental services are also offered by walk-in clinics. Most of the time, dental issues are not considered to be too severe unless bacteria have affected deep into the patient’s mouth. Dental services in walk-in clinics may range from check-ups, deep cleaning, or teeth restoration treatments. By giving patients oral exams, a walk-in clinic may detect signs of oral cancer, heart disease, or diabetes.
Physiotherapy is one of the important services offered by walk-in clinics. People who have physical injuries or are recovering from them will be helped by the trained and certified physical therapists working in walk-in clinics. Patients are guided with their strengthening, rehabilitation, and recovery from joint and muscle pain. Orthopedic treatments are common in walk-in clinics. These treatments help patients suffering from conditions such as sprains, fractures, strains, and arthritis.
Walk-in clinics have audiologists available to treat patients that have hearing concerns. By offering hearing aid services and hearing tests, these doctors are able to effectively diagnose and treat patients with their hearing problems. Hearing aids may come in various types. In-the-canal hearing aids are given to patients who wish to be discreet with their problems.
Most walk-in clinics offer x-ray and ultrasound services. These are essential to diagnose internal injuries and illnesses of patients. The results coming from these devices are necessary for doctors to come up with effective treatments for patients. The results may be used by in-house doctors or patients may bring their results to their regular doctors whichever they prefer.
Another necessary service offered by walk-in clinics is nuclear cardiology. This is a non-invasive technique that is used to test the health of the heart of a patient. This involves assessing the current health of the patient’s heart, and it is also used to assess the blood flow within the system of the patient. By monitoring the patient’s heart, a walk-in clinic may catch signs of any heart disease that might affect the patient. Having the opportunity to know of this possibility can help prevent major heart issues in the future.

What Makes Urgent Care Centers Different From Walk-In Clinics?

Seeing that a walk-in clinic is able to cover various types of illnesses or injuries, there may be a need for patients to go to a different type of medical facility if they have more severe problems. Without needing to go directly to hospitals and avoid the long waiting lines from the emergency rooms, patients can go to the nearest urgent care centers. It is highly advised that people should be familiar with the things that make urgent care centers different from walk-in clinics. The list below shows some of the common differences between these two types of medical facilities:

Since walk-in clinics are focused on giving physiological treatments to injuries that would help promote improvement in the movement of the patient’s limbs, they are not known to treat simple fractures. Walk-in clinics are equipped to treat mild physical injuries such as bruises and sprains. Urgent care centers, however, have qualified doctors or clinicians that apply splints or casts to patients who need them. Treating minor fractures are one of the common services that are handled in urgent care centers.
Urgent care centers are allowed to treat lacerations and injuries that may need patients to receive stitches. Invasive treatments are offered in urgent care centers as long as they do not pose high risk to the lives of the patients.
Treating asthma is one of the most common medical issues that urgent care centers are equipped to handle. This problem may be considered severe since patients with asthma find it hard to breathe and have greater risk of problems to their respiratory systems. However, these cases may still be considered not severe enough to threaten the lives of the patients.

Going To Walk-In Clinic Can Be Cost-Effective

If you are not able to set an appointment with your regular doctor, it is highly recommended that you find an alternative to treat any type of medical issues that you may have. By going to a walk-in clinic, you may be surprised that your issue might be diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible time. This option can save you time and may help cut the costs of your medical bills. Knowing the different types of medical issues a walk-in clinic near you is offering is very important. You have to consider the fact that walk-in clinics hire licensed and certified doctors, therapists, and staff that can effectively treat various types of illnesses and injuries.

Furthermore, these professionals will also direct you to a hospital when they determine that your case is severe enough and needs to be handled in an emergency room. It is best that you get a professional medical evaluation first if you are unsure of the sickness that you currently have. If you are looking for a reputable walk-in clinic within the province of Ontario, you may contact Bay-College Medical & Lockwood at 416-929-1900. Our staff will do its best to immediately treat your medical issues. They are also ready to answer any of your medical concerns.

What is a Walk-in Clinic Canada?

June 21, 2021June 18, 2021 by Kevin

A walk-in clinic, as the name implies, provides care without an appointment. You can come in any time during a walk-in clinic’s business hours to receive treatment on a first come, first served basis. In some cases you may be able to make an appointment to reduce the potential for a wait time, but the clinic will also accept walk-ins. Walk-in clinics can include centers for urgent care, retail clinics located inside pharmacies and some community health clinics.

Here we will look at some of the services you can receive at a walk-in clinic, insurance coverage, and when it is appropriate to seek this kind of care versus going to an emergency room.

What services does a walk-in clinic offer?

The services a walk-in clinic provides will differ depending on which kind of walk-in clinic you go to. Let’s look at some common services available at each type of walk-in clinic.

Retail Walk-In Clinic: Retail clinics are often located within pharmacies. They often provide vaccine shots, flu shots and care for common illnesses like strep throat, rashes and sinus infections. They provide fast care typically with minimal wait times. However, they are not equipped for serious emergency situations like major wounds, trauma, head injuries or significant burns. A retail clinic will typically have a nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant on staff.

Urgent Care/Walk-In Clinic: A walk-in clinic located outside of a retail setting provides many of the same services that a retail location would along with additional diagnostic capabilities and care for more serious illness and injury. This type of clinic will offer blood tests, burn treatment, and care for simple bone breaks. Some walk-in clinics may also include dental, cardiology and optometry services. An urgent care will typically have at least one doctor on site along with nurses and physician’s assistants.

Free Clinics/Community Health Centers: The services provided at these types of clinics may vary depending on where you live. Typically they will provide STD testing, blood work and other services similar to what you will find at a retail or urgent care walk-in clinic. If you are unsure of what your local free clinic or community health center provides, check their website or call ahead.

When should you go to a walk-in clinic?

Walk-in clinics are a quick way to receive treatment for many non life threatening conditions. While they do not have as many capabilities as an emergency room, they will often have much lower wait times and can still provide effective diagnostics and care for many patients.

Benefits of a Walk-In Clinic

Walk-in clinics make getting the care you need convenient and affordable. Since their original intent was to provide medical care for underserved communities, these facilities are often faster than going to a primary care physician or emergency room. In the case of retail clinics, you may have one located in your nearest drugstore. For urgent care, most large communities will have several while they may only have one nearby hospital.

Even if you are close to a hospital, you will likely have a shorter wait time at an urgent care than you will at an ER where they are often overloaded with patients with serious injuries. Similarly, you will save time compared to visiting your regular doctor who likely requires an appointment. This can be especially important when you have an injury that is not life-threatening but does require care quickly to ease discomfort. For example, you can receive an antibiotic prescription for strep throat or a sinus infection at an urgent care within minutes versus waiting for an appointment.

Does OHIP Cover the Cost of a Walk-In Clinic Visit?

If you are an Ontario resident and are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, your walk-in clinic visit will be covered. An exception to this may be if you are prescribed medications at the clinic. Prescription medications are only covered by OHIP when administered in a hospital setting. If you have concerns about prescription costs, discuss this with the medical professional providing care.

When should you go to the ER?

Though a walk-in clinic provides a wide range of services, they are not equipped for many emergency situations. This includes trauma from a car accident, head injuries, complex bone fractures, heart attacks and severe burns.

If you experience any of these, you should either call 911 or head straight to the emergency room. If you are uncertain if the ER or walk-in is correct, consider whether or not you would go to your primary care physician with your injury or illness. If you would, then a walk-in is the best choice. Alternatively, you can call the walk-in clinic to ask what they recommend. Do this instead of calling or going to the ER when you are unsure. Going to the ER when you have an injury that could be cared for at a walk-in clinic, will likely cost you and the ER staff more time than necessary.

Additionally, you may need to seek ER care if your injury or illness occurs late at night or in the early morning. Retail clinics and urgent care facilities typically close no later than 10 pm and many close much earlier especially on weekends.

Conclusion

Both retail walk-in clinics and urgent care facilities offer a wide range of medical care and diagnostic services. Knowing when to go to one of these clinics can save you from waiting for an appointment with your primary care physician or spending hours in the ER. If you are experiencing symptoms of an illness or injury that are not immediately life-threatening, consider a walk-in clinic for treatment.

Conveniently located in the heart of Toronto, BCML Walk-In Clinic provides urgent care along with dental, optometry and cardiovascular services to the community. To reach our caring physicians, contact us at 416-929-1900.

How Much Does It Cost To Go To A Walk-In Clinic In Ontario?

June 29, 2021June 10, 2021 by Kevin

How much does it cost to go to a walk-in clinic in Ontario? If you are a resident and covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), your visit will be free. One of the few exceptions to this is if you are prescribed medication. You will need to pay for your prescription out of pocket though there are programs to help with this cost as well. For persons not covered under OHIP, a walk-in clinic provides an affordable, convenient alternative to an emergency room or visit to a primary care physician.

Here we will look at potential costs associated with a walk-in clinic visit along with what services a walk-in clinic offers and when you should consider visiting one.

What is a Walk-In Clinic?

A walk-in clinic provides care without the need for an appointment. Retail walk-in clinics, urgent care facilities, free community health centres and emergency rooms are all considered “walk-in” care options. When referring to a walk-in clinic, this usually means a retail clinic located within a pharmacy.

Their location within local pharmacies often makes these clinics the most convenient medical care options. Walk-in clinics also offer some of the shortest wait times compared to an emergency room or making an appointment with your physician.

When Should You Go to a Walk-In Clinic?

A walk-in clinic provides treatment and diagnosis for a wide range of common illnesses and health concerns. Staffed by a nurse or a physician’s assistant, these clinics provide professional care without the wait times associated with seeing your personal doctor.

You should go to a walk-in clinic if any of these situations apply to you:

You do not have a primary care physician but need help now
You have a non-emergency concern that cannot wait until you see your doctor
You have a non life threatening illness or injury including but not limited to: sinus infection, strep throat, urinary tract infection, minor rash, cut or scrape.

When Should you NOT Go to a Walk-In Clinic?

Walk-in clinics provide a multitude of essential services but they do have limits. A retail walk-in clinic like you would find in a pharmacy cannot handle serious injuries like a bone break, head injury or injuries sustained from a major accident. If you are experiencing severe and sudden pain especially in your chest or head, an ER is a better choice.

Benefits of a Walk-In Clinic

A walk-in clinic has several benefits. First and foremost, they are convenient. Since they are located inside retail pharmacies, they are often close to where people live and work. Secondly, they provide on-demand care without an appointment and without the long wait times typically found in an ER. Finally, they are a good choice for residents covered by OHIP and also anyone not covered. Insured persons get most services free and uninsured persons will typically be charged a price lower than a doctor’s office or urgent care facility.

What Services are Offered at a Walk-In Clinic?

Along with diagnosis and treatment of common acute illnesses, rashes and cuts, a walk-in clinic may also provide the following: vaccines, health screening tests, allergy tests and basic physicals.

What walk-in clinics do NOT provide is x-rays, treatment for broken bones and treatment for any serious, emergency situations. More complex symptoms without an obvious cause and severe pain will likely not be able to be diagnosed or treated in a walk-in clinic. Severe intestinal issues including diarrhea and vomiting can also not be helped at a walk-in clinic.

In these cases, the clinic will suggest you go to the ER, your primary care physician or urgent care depending on the severity of your symptoms. Your regular doctor will be better equipped to diagnose more complex issues and both an ER and urgent care will have more resources available to address serious conditions.

Walk-In Clinic Costs for Those Not Covered By OHIP

If you are not covered by OHIP, you can expect your walk-in clinic visit to cost somewhere between $50 and $150 depending on several factors. Ontario residents who simply do not have a valid health card (i.e. your health card is expired), will pay on the lower end of this range while a resident of a foreign country will be on the higher end.

Other factors that may contribute to cost include whether or not you receive treatment on a holiday or weekend. These are considered peak times and may incur extra costs. Other services you may receive such as testing for strep throat will have its own cost in addition to the base cost of the consultation.

Though these prices are certainly more expensive compared to the free price tag that residents get, they are still considerably more affordable than a trip to the ER. They are also much faster than trying to schedule an appointment with a doctor in most cases.

Prescription Costs at a Walk-In Clinic

Prescription medications are one of the few medical items or services not covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). The exception to this is if you have a hospital stay. Medications administered during a hospital stay will be covered by OHIP.

The Ontario healthcare system offers several options for residents who need help with affording prescription drugs. For Ontarians over 65, there is the Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB). This co-payment program assesses eligibility based on income. Those who are younger than 65 but live in a long-term care facility or are receiving other special care may also be eligible. Ontarians under 24 who are not covered under another private insurance may also qualify.

The Trillium Drug Program offers payment help to younger Ontarians who cannot afford their prescriptions or who are spending a significant portion of their income on prescriptions. Currently, if your prescriptions equal or exceed 4% of your household income you may be a qualified candidate.

How to Calculate Cost of a Walk-In Clinic Visit

If you are not covered by OHIP, prices for the services you receive will vary depending on the clinic you go to. Typically prices will be listed on a clinic’s website so you can easily calculate your cost and avoid any surprise expenses.

At BCML, we offer a wide range of services for both patients covered by OHIP and those without insurance. We will work with you to get the care you need at the best price. To learn more about our services and fees, call us at 416-929-1900.

What is the Cost of Getting Dental Fillings in Toronto

June 11, 2021June 7, 2021 by Kevin

Dental fillings are a common procedure that will help to save damaged teeth. Most often made of porcelain, silver amalgam, gold or composite resin, fillings work to repair damage caused by decay or trauma to a tooth. However, though the procedure is common, you may still have concerns about the process and the cost. Fortunately, fillings are among the more affordable dental procedures and most are at least partially covered by insurance. Even more importantly, a filling can save your tooth and help you avoid more costly and more painful procedures if your tooth is left untreated.

Here we will look at the cost of getting dental fillings in Toronto including factors that affect cost and the advantages of dental fillings.

Range of Dental Filling Costs

Silver amalgam fillings are the most affordable of the dental fillings and can be as little as CAD75 when combined with dental insurance. Without insurance, you can expect to pay around CAD150 but up to CAD375 depending on several factors. Resin fillings are also very common and have the added benefit of being able to be matched to your natural tooth color. These are slightly more expensive with a range of around CAD200 to CAD450. Gold fillings are more often used for larger cavities, crowns and partial tooth replacement. As such, they will typically be the most expensive option.

What Affects the Cost of Dental Fillings?

In addition to the costs associated with dental filling materials, these other factors will also affect the final price:

Location of Filling: Typically, teeth nearer the back of your mouth will be more expensive. These teeth are more difficult to operate on because of their location and, therefore, require more time and often more materials as the teeth are larger as well.

Insurance: Dental insurance in Canada very often will cover at least half of a filling’s cost. There are exceptions and additional costs may be incurred for sedation or other services. If you have insurance, it is best to check with your provider before proceeding as you may also have a deductible to consider. In some instances, your dentist may be able to offer you a discounted rate if you pay out of pocket.

Type of Filling: When thinking of dental fillings, most patients associate this with the simplest form of a filling where a small decayed portion of a tooth is removed and a filling material is placed. However, a filling can also include crowns, root canals and dental bridges. Each of these are more involved procedures that can require additional costs.

Sedation and Other Costs Associated with Dental Fillings

For small fillings, your dentist is likely to administer a local anesthetic which is a numbing agent applied or injected into the tooth receiving the filling. This is typically covered by your insurance or included in the total cost of the filling.

However, if you require oral surgery or have multiple fillings to be done at one time, you may require sedation which is often not covered by insurance. These sedation types include:

Nitrous: The most common form of this will be nitrous oxide (aka laughing gas) and is a relatively inexpensive and mild form of sedation. You can expect to pay as little as CAD35 or up to around CAD100.

Orally Administered Sedation: Oral sedation comes in the form of sedative drugs that you will take prior to the procedure. These can range from CAD150 up to CAD475.

General Anesthesia and IV Sedation: While these forms of sedation are used for dental procedures, they are very unlikely for any kind of filling. General anesthesia is typically only used for complex oral surgery and will need to be performed in a hospital setting. If you are in a rare position where you need these types of sedation for dental procedures, their cost will range from around CAD500 to CAD800.

Other Factors: Which Filling Material Type is Right for You?

Aesthetics: While cost is certainly a factor in deciding which filling type to get, there are other issues to consider. For many patients the decision is often between silver amalgam and composite resin. While silver amalgam is typically the cheapest option and one of the longest lasting, it is not as aesthetically pleasing. Composite resin, in contrast, can be matched precisely to your natural tooth color.

Longevity and Long Term Effects: Also, while silver fillings may last for 10 years or more compared to five years for composite, they may promote additional decay to your tooth. Since silver expands and contracts with temperature changes, this can cause temporary spaces to open in the teeth. Bacteria can get trapped in these spaces and cause cracking and decay. Resin is not affected by temperature this way.

Process: For all fillings, some portion of your tooth will need to be drilled away to both remove any decay and to make room for the filling. However, much less needs to be removed for a resin filling since this material will bond to your tooth. Silver, in contrast, will not bond and will require more of your tooth to be drilled away. Removing more of the healthy tooth can compromise its structural integrity.

Location: Your dentist will be able to tell you which option makes the most sense based on the location of your filling and your budget. Fillings located in the back of the mouth are often better candidates for a silver filling because they will not affect the appearance of your smile and are more durable.

Conclusion

Dental fillings are a common and important part of your oral care. For the majority of cases, this is a simple procedure with little pain and a lower price tag compared to more invasive dental procedures. If you are concerned about the cost of a filling, talk with your dentist about payment plans and other cost-effective options. The earlier a damaged tooth is corrected, the lower your cost will be and your dentist will be able to guide you to the best solutions.

For additional information on filling costs and your options, contact BCML at 416-929-1900. We are here to help care for your total health.

When to Go to the Emergency Room Vs Walk-in Clinic?

June 14, 2021June 7, 2021 by Kevin

Some situations are unquestionably emergency scenarios that will require a hospital visit. Severe injuries from car accidents and other sudden trauma are a prime example. However, other medical concerns may be better treated at a walk-in clinic, urgent care or by making an appointment with your primary care physician.

Here we will look at some guidelines for when you should go to the emergency room or seek other medical care.

What is the Difference Between a Walk-In Clinic, Urgent Care and ER?

Technically speaking, all three of these medical facilities can provide “walk-in” care, meaning care provided without requiring an appointment. An emergency room is contained within a hospital and will have the most extensive medical equipment, medical staff and capabilities. It will also likely have the longest wait times. Due to this, the ER should be reserved for serious and life-threatening emergency situations to not increase these wait times.

Walk-in Clinics and Urgent Care can sometimes be used interchangeably and both may provide similar services. However, walk-in clinics located inside of a retail pharmacy will typically have less robust medical offerings compared to an independent urgent care facility. These retail clinics will typically be staffed by a physician’s assistant or nurse and offer services such as flu shots, treatment for strep throat, minor cuts and some basic health screenings.

A full urgent care facility will have physicians on staff and provide everything a walk-in clinic provides along with blood tests, x-rays, and some cardiology services. Urgent care may also be able to care for broken bones, but this may require an ER trip in other cases.

When Should You Definitely Go to the ER?

The simplest answer to this is that if you feel like you are in an emergency situation, you should head to the ER to exercise the most extreme caution. Alternately, you can call 911 to describe your symptoms or situation and be advised on the best course of action. That being said, the following situations should be considered for immediate ER visits:

Persistent and severe chest pain
Symptoms of a stroke, including difficulty speaking, confusion, sudden weakness in an arm, leg or your face.
Difficulty breathing
Major trauma (I.E. significant injury from a car accident, a fall, or other similar sudden incident)
Head injuries
Vomiting blood
Drug overdose
Severe burns
Seizures

When Should I Go to Urgent Care?

Urgent Care facilities offer a wide range of medical testing and treatment. While they should not be used for the emergency situations described above, they are the best option for the following:

Signs of common illnesses such as cold, flu and strep throat. However, in severe flu cases especially in the very young or the elderly, an ER visit may be required. A high and sustained fever is one such instance.
Urinary tract infections
Diarrhea (unless you are also showing signs of dehydration, in which case you may still need to go to the ER).
Ear and sinus infections
Fever
Sore throat
Minor cuts and burns that you are unable to treat at home but are not life-threatening.
Pink eye
Sprains – a sprained wrist, ankle, knee etc. may be able to be treated at an urgent care. Some simple bone breaks may also be treated at a clinic.

Call Your Primary Care Physician When Possible

If you are unsure if you need emergency medical attention, your primary care physician is often the best person to contact. Your regular doctor will already have your medical history on file and know your medications. They are the best person to tell you when and where you should seek medical attention.

Should I Call an Ambulance?

In life-threatening situations you should contact 911 in order to have an ambulance dispatched. However, it is important to note that this may not result in faster care. Though the emergency vehicle will have certain equipment on board that may help in some situations, there is no guarantee you will be seen by a doctor more quickly once you arrive at the ER.

Additionally, you will be billed $45 for your ambulance ride which is your portion of the ambulance cost if you have the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). In some cases, you may be charged the full amount of $240 if it is found that you were not in a life-threatening situation. This cost alone should not be a deterrent to seeking the care you need, but it is worth considering if you have another transportation option.

What to Bring With You to the ER or Urgent Care

While preparing for an ER visit may not be an option in many cases, if possible, consider taking these measures before heading to the ER. These measures can also apply to a walk-in clinic visit.

Bring an Advocate: When you arrive at the ER, there will be paperwork and likely a wait time. Along with providing moral support during this process, a friend, spouse or relative can help speak for you if you are not able to.

Have a List of Medications: If you are on any kind of prescription medications, it is important for the ER team to know what those are. Some prescription drugs can have negative interactions with other medications you may be given at the hospital. Similarly, if you have taken any over the counter medications or supplements, this may also be relevant to your treatment so have this information available as well.

Know Your Allergies: On your list of medications, also include your known allergies.

Other Relevant Medical History: If you have any other known medical conditions, this information should be included on your medication list along with your primary care doctor’s name. Depending on your reason for going to the ER, you may also want to write down relevant information to your current ailment.

For example, if you have a sudden and severe allergic reaction, include a list of items you ate or came into contact with that could be the most likely culprits. While it is not absolutely necessary to write this all down, it may save you from having to repeat yourself and help you avoid leaving out important information during the stress of an emergency situation.

Conclusion

If you find yourself in medical distress of any kind, take comfort in knowing there are multiple options for your care. Many injuries and conditions do not require a stressful trip to the ER which is likely to include a significant wait time.

Instead, many medical treatments and diagnostics are available at conveniently located walk-in clinics like BCML Walk-In Clinic. We provide blood tests, cardiology services, eye care and treatment for many other common medical concerns. To reach our caring physicians, contact us at 416-929-1900.

7 All-Important Questions to Ask Your Physiotherapist

June 11, 2021May 24, 2021 by Kevin

Not sure what questions to ask your physiotherapist? If so, you are not alone. Physiotherapy, also known as physical therapy, is an important part of recovering from accidents, injury and certain medical conditions. However, no matter how beneficial physical therapy is, it can be intimidating the first time you visit. Or, you may have already started your therapy but feel as though you are not getting the results you need.

To ensure you are getting the best care and feel comfortable with the therapy you are receiving, these are the questions to ask your physical therapist.

What Can I do to Improve My Results?

Depending on what you are being treated for, your physical therapist may have several suggestions for what you can do outside of the clinic. For example, your therapist may suggest daily stretches or purchasing an ergonomic office chair. Your therapist should offer these suggestions automatically, but asking ensures you receive as much information as possible and shows that you are actively participating in your own therapy.

Many patients sometimes underestimate the importance of their personal role in their own recovery. Following your therapist’s suggestions for things you can do outside the clinic will help to maximize results, help you progress more quickly, and give you control over your own health.

What Results Can I expect?

Your therapist should be able to provide you with information on what your therapy path is intended to accomplish. For example, they should be able to tell you if pain reduction is possible, if your range of motion should increase, or if there are other benchmarks of progress.

While it is important to note that all injuries and patients may respond to therapy differently, knowing the potential results and goals can help you determine if the therapy is working for you. This also helps to keep your expectations realistic. Though it might be discouraging to find out that you may need therapy for several months, it can help you mentally prepare for what is ahead.

What is Causing My Pain/What Can I Do to Prevent this from Happening Again?

Sometimes the cause of pain is obvious, such as when you have had a specific accident. However, patients also require physical therapy for pain caused by repetitive movement and other regular use. For example, many people develop back pain due to uncomfortable office chairs or beds. For pain resulting from issues like this, your therapist can often provide suggestions for preventing the pain from returning or worsening. Simple changes like sleeping with a pillow between your knees or doing daily stretches can make a great difference in your long term health.

Have You Treated My Type of Injury Before?

It may feel uncomfortable asking a medical professional this question, but it is well within your rights as a patient. Moreover, therapists should be happy to provide this information. It shows your active interest in your own care and will give you confidence in their abilities. Though a therapist who has not treated your exact injury type before can still be a good match, it is often best to work with a therapist who has first hand knowledge of how similar patients respond and progress with treatment.

What Can I Expect During My Therapy Sessions?

Physical therapy can take several forms including hot and cold compresses, light exercises, stretching, and massage. Often, several therapies will be used to support each other. You may also start with certain exercises then rotate with other types. The number of repetitions you may do for a certain exercise may also increase as your pain or range of movement improves.

For many patients, knowing what sessions will entail, helps to manage expectations. At this point, your therapist should also tell you what clothes to wear for your appointments. Typically, athletic wear with comfortable shoes will be recommended. Your therapist may also tell you to bring a bathing suit if you will have any kind of water therapy.

Will You be My Therapist for Every Session?

Though you may require multiple therapists or occasionally have a substitute therapist when your primary is not available, it is typically best to have the same therapist consistently. Maintaining a dedicated therapist will reduce missed or redundant activities. Introducing a rotating list of therapists and therapist assistants often leads to inconsistent care and slower progress.

If you will have multiple therapists, ask your primary therapist what procedures are in place to ensure you are getting the therapy you need each time. Will each therapist take detailed notes that will be available to the next therapist? This information will empower you to know if your therapy is being administered correctly.

Are You Registered and Insured?

This information can also feel uncomfortable to ask but, again, a professional therapist should welcome these questions and be able to provide proof. Fortunately, the internet can be a good source for this information. Before asking your therapist directly, consider searching them online first for both reviews and certifications.

Conclusion

Finding the right therapist for your needs is an important part of your recovery. Ideally, you should have a therapist who is licensed, insured and has experience with your injury type. Additionally, you should have a primary therapist as opposed to rotating therapists and therapist aids. Ask questions about how long your therapy should take, what results you can expect and what you can do to maximize your results.

A professional therapist should be able to answer these questions and help you feel comfortable asking them. At BCML, we work with our patients to provide personalized physical therapy treatment that will work to achieve results while also working with your schedule and individual needs.

We welcome questions from new and existing patients. Contact our team of caring professionals by calling 416-929-1900.

Is the Cost of Physiotherapy Services Worth it?

February 18, 2021 by Kevin

Physiotherapy, or physical therapy, uses the natural way our joints and muscles move in order to improve mobility and manage pain. It is often used to help relieve joint aches, restore movement after an injury or improve conditions affecting mobility. It is noninvasive, does not require drugs and has virtually no risks.

In short, yes, physiotherapy services are worth it. In many instances, physiotherapy can also be used to enhance the benefits of medications and improve recovery times after surgery. Therefore, even if physical therapy does not eliminate your pain or condition, it can help support improved quality of life.

Here we will look at the benefits of physiotherapy, its potential costs and how you can afford physical therapy with and without insurance.

Why is Physiotherapy Worth the Cost?

Physiotherapy has a high potential upside with a minimal potential for a downside. Here are some of the potential uses and benefits of physical therapy treatments.

Eliminate need for surgery: For certain injuries such as muscle strains or pain caused from repetitive movement, physiotherapy can help to improve range of movement while also reducing discomfort. While surgery is still needed for certain injury types, physiotherapy can help many patients avoid the need for invasive measures.

Aid post-surgery recovery: If you require surgery for your knees, back or other joints, that does not mean physical therapy is without benefit. Studies have shown that patients who are in better shape prior to surgery often make a faster recovery.

Building up strength and improving range of motion prior to surgery can give you achieve the best results overall. Similarly, physical therapy is often prescribed after surgery to enhance the benefits of surgery. This will depend on your individual injury or condition but physical therapy is often a part of successful surgery recovery.

Pain reduction: Aches and soreness in your back, neck or joints can have many common causes such as repetitive movement, small tears in the muscles and a lack of physical activity or improperly done physical activity.

With physiotherapy services, you can use precise movements and exercises to help stretch and strengthen these areas which can greatly relieve pain. With consistent, targeted therapy, many patients can even eliminate or reduce their need for pain medication.

Improved mobility at any age: Stiff, aching joints can rapidly impair your range of motion at any age. While age, weight gain and certain conditions can increase mobility issues, physical therapy often provides a way for patients to improve their range of motion and quality of life no matter their previous physical condition.

Reduced need for pain medication: Pain medication is an important tool that can help many patients improve their quality of life. However, its potential side effects make it desirable to seek alternative treatments when possible. Physiotherapy is often able to provide

long-lasting pain relief without medication.

Alternative treatment option: Since physiotherapy does not require surgery or medication, this can be an ideal alternative for patients who are not physically well enough for surgery or who cannot safely take pain medication. In particular, patients who have had prior addiction issues and those who may have compromised kidneys or liver, can benefit from this drug-free alternative.

Improvement of other conditions: While back and joint pain tend to be the most common issues treated with physical therapy, they are far from the only problems that can be improved with these practices. Many heart and lung conditions can be improved with physical therapy and activity.

Physiotherapy is often employed to help patients regain strength after a stroke or heart surgery, and to manage the effects of diabetes which affects the nerve endings.

Is Physiotherapy Right for Me?

Patients can sometimes feel that their pain is beyond the scope of physical therapy. If you have lived with chronic pain for an extended period of time, it can seem that medication and surgery are the only answers. While it may be true that you will still need more aggressive or invasive treatments, physical therapy can help most situations.

More importantly, it is highly unlikely that physical therapy will have adverse effects. Unlike surgery which can have multiple complications, physiotherapy is noninvasive which means even if you have temporary discomfort from therapy, there is very low risk that the effect will be permanent.

Additionally, the benefits of physical therapy can also begin to be felt in the first session. Most patients first begin to feel some pain relief followed by improved range of movement as treatment progresses. In short, while physical therapy may not be the only treatment you need, it carries a low enough risk that it is worth trying.

Is Physiotherapy Covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan)?

OHIP covers physiotherapy in limited circumstances. While not a universal coverage option for all physiotherapy needs, there are many patients who can qualify. In order to qualify for coverage from OHIP you must meet one or more of the following requirements.

You are under 19 or over 65
You are on ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program)
You are on Ontario Works
You are a refugees who is on ODSP or Ontario Works
You have spent one or more nights in the hospital within the past year*

*If you do not meet any of the other requirements, your doctor may recommend a hospital stay to do all or part of your physical therapy. This will be at the discretion of your doctor and based on your needs.

What if You Do Not Meet OHIP Requirements?

Those who are not covered by OHIP may still be helped by private insurance through an employer, university or any other purchased supplemental plan. With private insurance, the amount covered will vary and you should consult with your insurance provider before beginning therapy to avoid billing complications later.

Affording Physiotherapy Without Insurance

For those without private insurance or who do not qualify for OHIP coverage, your primary doctor and/or physiotherapist may offer a discounted rate. Before deciding that physiotherapy is too expensive, talk with your provider first. Many doctors understand the benefits of physiotherapy and will work with you to ensure you can get the help you need at a price you can afford.

Schedule Your Physiotherapy Consultation Today

Whether you already have a prescription for physical therapy or you are still in need of a diagnosis, BCML is here to help. Our physiotherapist services work to help you regain mobility and strength.

We offer flexible scheduling and cost effective solutions to ensure you receive the care you need. For physiotherapy appointments and referrals, contact us at 416-847-1100.

Cost of Hearing Aids in Toronto

February 12, 2021 by Kevin

The factors that affect the cost of getting hearing aids are numerous. Like any other health problem, the severity of the hearing problem will influence the cost of the solution. For example, the hearing aid pricing for a patient whose ear has blockage will differ from that of someone who is partially deaf. So, when you visit a professional, you can expect to get different prices for hearing aids.

Another factor that affects hearing aid prices is its features. On a search for hearing aids, you’ll likely come across several options. Typically, these options are a function of the features and efficiency of the hearing aid. Thanks to the innovative world we now live in, hearing aids now have tech properties that can affect their prices.

For example, the same way you’ll find an automated hearing aid is the same way you’ll find a manual one. However, these features will have a direct effect on the prices. But, with the help of this technology, hearing aids help millions globally with hearing problems. This ranges from the person who just needs to hear clearly to the person who can’t hear.

So, when you notice a hearing challenge, you do not need to fret. All you need is to confirm the hearing issue and look for viable solutions. In this guide, we’ll discuss the average pricing range for hearing aids. For your benefits, we’ll also explain some factors that influence the cost of getting hearing aids.

What is the Cost of Getting Hearing Aids in Toronto?

Averagely, the cost of getting hearing aids in Toronto ranges between $1000 and $4000. This price heavily depends on the features and functions of the device. You may see some hearing aids with technologies like sound cancellation and wireless connections. This type of feature will increase the price.

A fairly recent CBC article discussed actual pricing for hearing aids. The report reveals that the actual manufacturing price of a hearing aid ranges between $150 and $200. The manufacturers then sell these aids to ear care professionals at a range of $450 and $700. However, most health care professionals then sell these at price ranges between $1000 and $4000.

The question you may want to ask is why hearing aids are that expensive, even with the manufacturing costs. However, the ear care professionals go beyond just the device you see. The professional also performs some tests and services on the device. Some of these services include testing, adjustments, and fittings.

When you want to buy hearing aids, there are many factors you must consider. These features and specifications will influence the prices of the hearing aids. Some of these factors include:

The number of hearing aids needed

When you decide to get hearing aids, it’s always better to visit a professional. The first reason for this is to confirm you have a hearing problem.

Another important reason for this step is to confirm the affected ears. That way, you’ll be making more informed decisions. Some of the tests your doctor will walk you through include;

The physical observation
Phone application test
Screening tests
Professional audiometer test

An expert audiologist may reveal that both your ears have a hearing problem. In this situation, the professional will most likely advise you to purchase dual hearing aids. Of course, buying two hearing aids will increase the cost of getting hearing aids. But it’ll fulfil its purpose without stressing you in any way. In many cases, your ear care pro can use their influence to reduce these prices.

Type of hearing loss

After you confirm which ear the hearing problem affects, you need to understand that problem. There are different types of hearing loss — each with its respective causes.

And you can’t just go ahead to buy hearing aids without knowing what problem it’s solving. That’s why you need to visit your hearing expert. The types of hearing loss you may encounter include;

Conductive hearing loss: This type of hearing loss occurs when a substance or object blocks your hearing path. To solve this type of hearing issues, you need not bother about how much to install hearing aids. Mostly, you can solve these issues without hearing aids in most cases. The common causes of this heating defect are:
Ear wax
Regular objects
Ear infections
Inner ear scars
Ear bone issues.

To treat this you may not need any complex items or drugs. A mini surgery will suffice if there’s an object in the ear. And in the case of infections, good antibiotics will work perfectly.

Sensorineural hearing loss: In most cases, this type of hearing loss comes with inner ear problems. Sometimes, it may be as a result of a loss of sound transmission to the brain. In most cases, you’ll need to get hearing aids to fix this issue. Some causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:
Diabetes, stroke, obesity, and other health conditions.
Old age
Genetics
Accidents
Smoking
Infections

To solve these types of hearing problems, you may need complex treatment methods. As a result, the hearing aid prices will differ.

Mixed hearing problems: As the name rightly implies, a mixed hearing loss occurs when the hearing loss combines both sensory and conductive hearing losses. To discover this type of hearing loss, you will need the help of a professional.

The treatment methods also combine therapies used for both conductive and sensorineural losses. So, you’ll need hearing aids in addition to some other treatment methods.

Types of Hearing aid

The cost of getting hearing aids has a linear relationship with the type of hearing aid. Based on aesthetics, there are different types and styles of hearing aids available. But you can categorize the types of hearing aids into two: behind-the-ear and in-the-ear hearing aids.

Behind-the-ear hearing aids: In most cases, many people who use hearing aids prefer these hearing aids. That’s because they are small and hardly noticeable on the ear. Subtypes include:
Behind-the-ear hearing aids with a receiver inside the ear canals.
Behind-the-ear hearing aids with hooks.
In the ear hearing aids: All the features and functions of this hearing aid come in a small size. However, there can also be a variation in size. Mostly, the size and style for you depend heavily on your ears and the type of hearing issue you have.

Sometimes, an ear care professional may have to go beyond just the usual service to find your perfect size. And of course, this will affect the overall cost of getting hearing aids.

Features

Here’s how the features you choose affect how much you have to pay for hearing aids. Some features that come with ear aids include:

Microphones
Noise removal
Wireless functions
Different hearing programs
Aesthetics and appearance
Speech recognition
Automated functions.

Usually, your audiology expert will determine if you need to add any of these features to your hearing aids. In the area of aesthetics, that’s a personal choice. Depending on your style, you can choose to go for a more stylish hearing aid. In our experience, the more of these features you have, the more you can expect to pay for hearing aids.

Location

Where you spend most of your time can also affect your cost of getting a hearing aid. If you stay in a noisy environment, you’ll be needing a hearing aid that cancels out the noise. In that case, you have reduced the number of options you have.

Also, depending on your location, you may get some cuts on the pricing for hearing aids. For example, in Ontario, you can get 75% less than the original price if you have the Ontario Health Insurance card. So you see, your location can either increase or decrease the cost of hearing aids.

Related Article: Hearing Loss and Coronavirus

Hearing Aids are Affordable

Before you estimate the cost of getting a hearing aid, there are many factors to consider. The primary determinants remain the type of hearing loss and the number of hearing aids you need. All in all, it’s possible for the cost of hearing aids to run into thousands of dollars.

We know it may seem super expensive. However, it’s almost impossible to put a price on your hearing. As such, instead of compromising on price, it’s best to proceed with flexible payment options. This way, the overall pricing will have less of an effect on your wallet.

Here at Lockwood Clinic, we offer payment options that can make it easier to cover the cost of hearing aids. Get in touch with our experts to discuss your options today!

How Much Should I Pay for Physiotherapy Sessions in Toronto?

February 12, 2021February 10, 2021 by Kevin

The price to pay for a physiotherapy session varies. Firstly, the cost of physiotherapy sessions is a function of the type of therapy you’ll be receiving.

Physical therapy includes massages, exercise, and other treatments. This form of medical care is beneficial for individuals who experience constant pain. It’s also great for people with conditions that affect their movement. With it, you may not even need surgery.

Generally, the overall pricing for physical therapy covers the initial consultation, treatment, and type of condition being treated. Also, the number of sessions plays a significant role in the cost.

That being said, in this post, we’ll provide you with a breakdown of the cost of physiotherapy. Depending on your needs, amongst others, you may be required to pay more or less for physical therapy.

The Cost of Initial Consultation

The cost of physiotherapy sessions begins with the fee for the initial assessment. This ranges between $75 to $100. This initial consultation is necessary to determine the course of therapy. During it, a specialist will take your medical history and develop a medication plan.

Here, your physical therapist will answer questions like whether or not you need a massage or exercise. Also, they will determine whether or not you’ll be admitted into rehab or treated at home. This consultation usually takes about an hour or less. In some cases, if you have multiple conditions, your therapist may suggest an extensive examination.

Price for Different Physiotherapy Sessions

The exact amount you’ll pay for physiotherapy sessions differs depending on the type of physical therapy. The price for sports therapy will vary from ortho physical therapy. Keep in mind that physiotherapy services are tax-free.

Hence, you don’t have to worry about the cost being affected by some modalities. Here are the various types of treatment costs.

Sports physical therapy

The overall cost of seeing a therapist for sport-related injuries is $800. This treatment process helps athletes improve their performance and recover faster from injuries. The fee for the initial cost assessment is about $55. After this, the sports therapist may recommend stretching exercises, mobility aids, or massages.

Now, a 60-minute massage will cost you $60. At the same time, a 30-minute massage will be $30. If your level of fitness is low, you may be placed on cardiovascular and endurance programs. This will cost you about $80. Again, your specialist may recommend ergonomic adjustments to boost your mobility.

You’ll likely spend between $70 and $100 for this. For this treatment, you may need equipment like fitness balls, resistance bands, and chest pulley weights. All these will cost you about $300 or more. Thankfully, many physiotherapy clinics offer discount plans, so you do not have to spend up to the figures listed above.

Orthopedic physiotherapy

To pay for ortho physiotherapy sessions, you may have to shell out up to $300. This procedure is for individuals who experience back, neck, and muscle pains. Similarly, it’s highly recommended for individuals recovering from surgery. During the first assessment, a specialist will diagnose your musculoskeletal disorders.

For this, you’ll spend about $160 for an initial consultation. You’ll also need manual therapy like massages to reduce your pain. Undoubtedly, this will cost you between $50 and $100, depending on the timeframe. Other treatments like hydrotherapy, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound will increase the overall cost of your physiotherapy treatments.

For manual electrical stimulation, you’ll spend between $200 to $500 per hour. Depending on where you receive treatment, you may be lucky to pay less for it. If you opt for home service, then the cost of physical therapy will be more expensive.

Perhaps you need physical therapy to treat a severe accident or a major surgery. Well, this will cost you hundreds and thousands of dollars. The reason is, you’ll probably need rehabilitation for adequate recovery. Not to mention, you’ll require many sessions per week till you’re better.

Geriatric physical therapy (for ageing adults)

The cost of physiotherapy sessions for ageing adults is $1000. This treatment is specifically for people with age-related ailments like incontinence, stroke, and arthritis.

This medication comes in the form of manual therapy and exercise. Therapies like chiropractic adjustments and massages will cost you about $60 per hour.

Moreover, this procedure is mostly administered in the patient’s home. For this kind of outpatient treatment, expect to pay about $500 per session. This covers the transport expense paid to visit your house. Now, if you have insurance, you’ll probably pay about half the price.

Besides, geriatric specialists charge about $200 per session. This is as a result of the complex care that accompanies treating adults. Keep in mind the total cost excludes possible postoperative treatment.

Pediatric physical therapy

Is your child having disorders like spina bifida, muscle diseases, and congenital disabilities? If yes, we advise that you see an experienced physical therapist. Pediatric specialists use treatments and exercises to improve the motor skills of young individuals. Per session, you may pay between $50 to $150.

Cost of Physiotherapy With Insurance

You don’t have to break the bank to pay for physiotherapy sessions. The average price for physical therapy without insurance is between $80 to $200 per session.

Many insurers pay about 50% of your total treatment cost. Here are the types of insurance that usually cover physical therapy:

Medicare
Medicaid
Government programs
Worker’s compensation
Private insurance plans
Automobile liability insurance

Again, some insurers won’t pay unless you have a referral from a primary care specialist. At the same time, others don’t require it. Aside from this, most providers have a limit of how much they’ll pay per session.

Therefore, all these factors can increase the physiotherapist clinic prices you’ll pay. Also, insurance doesn’t cover services like athletic training, fitness, and wellness programs.

Factors That Determine the Pricing of Physiotherapy

When contemplating how much to pay for physiotherapy sessions, there are several factors to consider. The location, number of sessions, and expertise alongside other things affect the pricing.

Thanks to the interplay of these factors, It’s unlikely that you’ll be charged the same price for treatment in two different clinics.

Duration of the treatment

How much should I pay for physiotherapy sessions? Well, it depends on your total sessions. Per session, the average physiotherapy treatment may be up to $150. This excludes any factor that may hike the price.

Now, if your specialist recommends that you undergo a total of 10 sessions in a year, ultimately, this will cost you $1500. The higher the duration, the more expensive the treatment.

Place of treatment

The fee you’ll pay for physiotherapy sessions in Toronto will vary from what you’ll pay in Vancouver. As you may have guessed, getting therapy in big cities is more expensive. In Toronto, you may pay about $500 or more for a complete procedure. This is because the services for clinics here in the city are in high demand.

In a place like Alberta, it may be between $150 to $300. To save costs, you may want to travel down to a smaller city for your treatment sessions. However, the cost of transportation and accommodation will defeat the purpose.

Reputation of the clinic

The cost of physiotherapy sessions differs with clinic reputations. A well-known clinic will certainly charge more than a newly licensed one. Therapy sessions here may amount to about $500.

The reason is, well-renowned clinics must have spent resources in building their name and services. Ultimately, they’ll cost higher compared to a clinic that’s just starting.

Moreover, these famous clinics have more exposure and experience. As a result, they can charge more since they are confident in their ability to deliver the best results.

Specialization

Most pediatric and geriatric specialists charge high. For a session, the price may range between $300 and $350. These therapists have undergone years of training to acquire certain skills to treat patients.

Hence, it’s only normal that their services will be expensive. Meanwhile, specialists who are just masseuse and chiropractors may charge an average fee of $100.

Discuss The Cost of Physical Therapy With an Expert

The amount you’ll pay for physiotherapy sessions is less important than your health. Even at that, physical therapy is available for all types of budgets. It’s even more flexible with insurance.

Do you need information on any treatment? Or you’ll like to schedule an appointment with a specialist? Our experienced physiotherapists here at Lockwood Clinic can design an affordable treatment plan that will work for you. Contact us today!