OHIP-funded physiotherapy is provided through a system of Community Physiotherapy Clinics (CPCs). These clinics are government-designated and operate under strict guidelines. You cannot simply walk into any private clinic and expect OHIP to cover your visits — only CPCs and some hospital-based or home-based programs participate in the system.
Here’s how it works:
Assessment: If you qualify, you’ll begin with an assessment by a licensed physiotherapist.
Treatment Plan: Your physiotherapist will design a recovery program focused on helping you regain strength, mobility, and function.
Session Coverage: There is no strict session cap, but treatment continues only as long as progress is being made. Once your goals are reached or your condition stabilizes, coverage ends.
Care Delivery: OHIP physiotherapy can be provided in clinic, through home visits (for those unable to travel), or virtually in some cases.
What OHIP Physiotherapy Covers
If you are eligible, OHIP will fund:
An initial assessment to determine your needs
One-on-one or group-based physiotherapy sessions
In-clinic treatment at a designated Community Physiotherapy Clinic
Home visits if you cannot physically travel to a clinic
Telehealth physiotherapy where available
These services are focused on recovery and function, not on long-term maintenance. The physiotherapist will continue treatment as long as you are actively improving.
What OHIP Does Not Cover
It’s just as important to know what OHIP does not pay for. Even if you qualify, the following are excluded:
Maintenance physiotherapy: If your condition is stable but you want ongoing care to maintain mobility, OHIP does not cover this.
Preventive therapy: Programs focused on preventing injuries or general wellness are not eligible.
Private clinics outside the CPC network: Unless your physiotherapy clinic is part of the OHIP program, you must pay privately.
Specialized services: Treatments such as acupuncture, custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, or advanced sports rehab are not included.
Do You Need a Referral for OHIP Physiotherapy?
Sometimes, yes. Some Community Physiotherapy Clinics require a referral from your family doctor or nurse practitioner before they assess you for eligibility. Hospital-based programs often include a referral as part of your discharge plan.
However, in Ontario you generally do not need a referral for private physiotherapy. You can book an appointment directly. Keep in mind, though, that some insurance providers require a referral before they will reimburse physiotherapy costs.
Alternatives If You Don’t Qualify
If you don’t meet the OHIP eligibility rules, you still have plenty of options:
Private physiotherapy clinics: Pay per session or purchase treatment packages. Costs usually range from $70 to $120 per session.
Extended health insurance: Many employers and private plans cover physiotherapy. Some require a referral, so check your plan before booking.
Motor vehicle accident insurance: If you were injured in a car accident, physiotherapy is often funded through your auto insurance.
WSIB coverage: For workplace injuries, physiotherapy is covered through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board.
Community health centres: Some offer subsidized or low-cost physiotherapy programs.
Why Many People Still Choose Private Physiotherapy
Even if you qualify for OHIP physiotherapy, there are some limitations. OHIP clinics often have long wait times, fewer available treatments, and restrictions on services. Private physiotherapy offers:
Faster access to care
More flexible scheduling
A wider range of treatment options such as massage therapy, shockwave therapy, and acupuncture
Comprehensive care for prevention, maintenance, and wellness
For many patients, combining OHIP and private physiotherapy is the best way to get complete care.
OHIP and Physiotherapy in Ontario
Is physiotherapy free in Ontario with OHIP?
Yes, but only if you are a senior, youth, recent hospital patient, or on OW/ODSP. For everyone else, physiotherapy is paid privately or through insurance.
How many OHIP physiotherapy sessions can I get in 2025?
There is no strict limit. OHIP covers sessions as long as progress is being made. Once your condition stabilizes, coverage ends.
Do I need a referral for OHIP physiotherapy?
Some Community Physiotherapy Clinics require a referral, but private physiotherapy in Ontario does not.
What if I don’t qualify for OHIP physiotherapy?
You can access care through private clinics, extended health insurance, auto insurance, WSIB, or community programs.
Final Word
So, is physiotherapy covered by OHIP in 2025? The answer is yes — but only for specific groups such as seniors, youth, recent hospital patients, and OW/ODSP recipients. For most Ontarians, physiotherapy is accessed through private clinics or insurance coverage.
At Toronto Wellness & Physio Centre, we provide high-quality physiotherapy services in Toronto and Richmond Hill whether or not you qualify for OHIP. Our team of licensed professionals offers personalized treatment plans designed to help you recover, move better, and live pain-free.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, contact us today. We’ll help you confirm coverage, explain your options, and guide you toward the best path for your recovery.
