How to Use Extended Health Benefits for Acupuncture

What most extended health plans cover for acupuncture

  • Typical structure: yearly dollar maximum vs per-visit maximum.[web:19]
  • Common insurers in BC: Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, Canada Life, Manulife (examples, not an exhaustive list).
  • What “acupuncturist” coverage usually means vs “TCM practitioner” or “RMT”.
  • How unused benefits often do not roll over to the next year.

Questions to ask your insurer or HR

  • What is my annual limit for acupuncture?
  • Is there a per-visit maximum amount?
  • Do I need a doctor’s note or referral?
  • Is direct billing available, or do I submit receipts myself?

Visit limits, yearly maximums and how they work

  • Example: $500/year for acupuncture vs combined paramedical maximum.
  • How co-pay or partial coverage may appear on your claim.
  • Differences between individual and family plans.
  • How splitting visits across multiple clinics may affect your remaining balance.

Common misunderstandings

  • Thinking benefits cover “unlimited” sessions when there is a clear maximum.
  • Assuming you can “save” unused benefits for the next year.
  • Confusing medical insurance (MSP) with extended health benefits.

Direct billing vs self-submit

  • What direct billing is and how it simplifies your visit.[web:16][web:22]
  • When direct billing may not be available (e.g. certain plans or insurers).
  • Self-submit basics: downloading your insurer’s app or portal, uploading receipts.
  • How Ryu Clinic prepares receipts with all required information.

What to bring to your first visit

  • Insurance card or policy information.
  • Any reference number your insurer uses for you or your family.
  • Photo ID and contact information for your plan holder (if not you).

How Ryu Clinic works with your benefits

  • Checking coverage details you provide and aligning your treatment plan with your limits.[web:16][web:37]
  • Planning frequency: more frequent early visits vs spaced maintenance sessions later in the year.
  • Discussing options openly if you are close to your yearly maximum.
  • Combining extended benefits with ICBC or other coverage where applicable.

Using benefits across the year

  • Phase 1: early-year assessment and addressing known issues.
  • Phase 2: mid-year tune-up and managing work or training stress.
  • Phase 3: year-end check-up and planning for the upcoming year.[web:44]
  • Example: using monthly or every-2–3-week visits instead of a last-minute rush in December.

Building a personal benefits strategy

  • Prioritising your main issue (neck, back, headaches, stress, etc.).
  • Deciding how much of your yearly allowance to reserve for flare-ups.
  • Coordinating with other therapies (physio, massage, counselling) within one plan.