My Dear Readers,
Before reading this article, I want to confirm that this is not the opinion of Glendinning Insurance Services. I am reporting based on the buzz I have been hearing over the past couple years in the Insurance Industry.
The majority of Paramedical Practitioners included under your employee benefit plan are:
- Chiropractor
- Acupuncture
- Massage Therapist
- Naturopath
- Osteopath
- Physiotherapist
- Podiatrist
- Psychologist/Social Worker
- Speech Therapist
Over the past couple years the usage for Paramedical Practitioners has increased dramatically. Most times when I review the Extended Health claims of my clients, the paramedical practitioner claims usage is as high as the Prescription Drugs. Previously, 85% of the Extended Health Claims usage came from drugs. The majority of the claims we are seeing to date are with Chiropractors, Massage Therapists and Physiotherapists coming in a close third.
Benefits Canada published an article called, “What are the goals of massage therapy as an employee benefit?“. This article speaks to the confusion around the goals of massage. Are massages being performed because is makes a person feel good or does it cure them?
Are Employer’s providing a benefit to their employees to cure health issues or are they preventing future health issues? Of course, this question could touch so many areas of the benefit plan.
My reason for posting this article is to bring awareness to you the reader, that Insurance Companies are reviewing the paramedical practitioners and if they are curing people or is this a feel good benefit?
To review your benefit plan in greater detail, please contact Glendinning Insurance Services.