Is Occupational Therapy Covered by Insurance in Ontario? A Guide for Parents

Private occupational therapy is generally not covered by OHIP. Publicly funded OT is available through some hospital and school programs, often with wait times. Many families pay for private OT through workplace benefits and other options.

Extended health benefits

Many extended health plans include occupational therapy. Coverage varies from plan to plan, so it helps to ask your insurer:

• What is the annual maximum for occupational therapy?

• Is there a per-visit limit or a co-pay?

• Do you need a doctor's referral before you're reimbursed?

• Do they need a written report or a treatment plan?

• Can more than one family plan be combined?

Health spending accounts

If your employer offers a health spending account, it can often be used for occupational therapy. Check your plan's rules.

Medical expense tax credit

The Canada Revenue Agency lists occupational therapists in Ontario as authorized medical practitioners for the medical expense tax credit, so fees you pay for OT may be claimable. See the CRA's list of authorized medical practitioners and speak with your tax preparer about your situation.

How Ottawa OT makes it simple

• Occupational therapy services are HST-exempt.

• You'll receive receipts for your insurer.

• Written reports are available when a plan requires one.

• Planned 10-session blocks and the Starter Package make costs predictable.

Talk to an Ottawa occupational therapist

Every program starts with a conversation about your child. Call 613-797-9644 or email support@ottawaot.com to ask about an occupational therapy assessment. Our registered occupational therapists come to your home or your child's school anywhere in Ottawa, or meet you online.

This article is general information for parents. It isn't a diagnosis or a substitute for an assessment by a registered occupational therapist.