Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve got your answers.
1. What happens during my first physiotherapy appointment?
Your first visit to Renew is for learning about you. The physiotherapist will discuss your injury or pain history and conduct a physical exam to diagnose your concerns. Our knowledgeable physiotherapists take the time to understand any issues or areas of concerns, health history, and treatment goals. The therapist will then explain your diagnosis and work with you to develop a treatment plan to support your needs. Treatment plan development is a collaborative process and is decided as much by you as it is by the physiotherapist.
Your first appointment will also include treatment and will take approximately one hour. Follow-up assessments and treatments are 30 minutes in length and spent with the physiotherapist.
2. What should I bring for my first appointment?
Please wear or bring comfortable clothing to your appointment, including shorts if we are helping you with a lower body injury. Please bring any relevant diagnostic imaging reports (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound), as well as your Alberta Blue Cross card if you have one.
3. Is physiotherapy covered by insurance?
Many health benefit plans include physiotherapy services. Motor vehicle accident claims are fully covered through the appropriate insurer.
4. Do you direct bill?
We offer direct billing for Blue Cross only. By limiting our direct billing options, we maintain a low overhead and reduce the amount of time required for behind-the-scenes administrative work. The time recovered from limiting direct billing options is invested into more one-on-one time with you.
If you are a post-secondary student, get in touch with us to learn more about our preferred rate offered through the student plan network.
5. Will Alberta Health Care cover my treatment?
Some physiotherapy clinics receive funding from Alberta Health Services (AHS) for assessments and up to two follow up treatments per client. We do not receive funding from AHS which means there is a fee for your assessment and follow-up treatments (excluding Motor Vehicle Accident and WCB claims). We operate outside of the AHS funding model, enabling us to create a slower-paced and focused environment with more direct time between you and your physiotherapist.
6. Why is Renew Physio different from other Edmonton physiotherapy clinics?
Physiotherapy clinics are often criticized for using treatment techniques that do not require the presence of the actual physiotherapist. Clients often spend most of their appointment with an exercise therapist or aid and only 5-10 minutes with the physiotherapist.
This will not be your experience when you visit Renew. Our patient-centered care model emphasizes proper delivery of physiotherapy care by including our patients in the development of their treatment plan and by delivering all treatments through the hands of the physiotherapist. Our physiotherapists are with you from beginning to end, guiding you through your entire treatment to ensure proper education and delivery of all services. We provide you with a slow-paced, respectful and inclusive therapeutic environment and promise not to rush you out the door.
7. Which treatment do I need and how many sessions are required?
The type of physiotherapy treatment you require will depend on the reason for your visit. Some issues may only take one or two sessions to treat, while other more serious or chronic issues may require multiple visits. We ensure every visit is used to the fullest to minimize the number of required sessions and the time it takes to restore you to optimal health.
8. How do I choose a physiotherapist who is right for me?
It all comes down to what feels best to you. Proper healing and recovery can only happen if you feel comfortable and relaxed in your treatment environment. Your first visit to our clinic is an opportunity to ask the physiotherapist any and all questions to make sure our approach feels right to you.
9. What can I expect from physiotherapy?
Your physiotherapy experience depends on your presenting issues and treatments required. All treatment and service options will be thoroughly explained so you can make an educated decision about your treatment plan and know what to expect during each visit.
10. Do you accept walk-ins?
An appointment is required for assessments and treatments, but we are always accepting new patients and encourage you to contact us with any questions. We also welcome visitors to the clinic to check out our facilities and learn more about our services.