no doctor’s note
no additional paperwork
No Upfront payment
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident you are automatically pre-approved (regardless of fault) for 12 acupuncture treatments in the 12 weeks following your accident. If additional treatments are required we will work with ICBC to extend your coverage.
If more than 12 weeks has passed since your accident, no problem! As long as your claim is still open, all we need is your claim number, full name, and date of birth to request that coverage for acupuncture is reopened.
ICBC Acupuncture FAQ
To receive free treatment do I need to speak to my ICBC adjustor or get a doctor's note?
No, not if your accident was within the past 3 months. If it has been more than 12 weeks since your accident we will need to submit an extension request for approval prior to treatment. If you need more than 12 treatments we can ask ICBC for an extension on your behalf.
What is the cost of an acupuncture treatment?
Nothing. The first 12 treatments and any additional treatments approved by ICBC under an extension are completely covered and there is no cost to you.
What treatment will I receive?
Based on your injuries, you will receive a combination or acupuncture, cupping, guasha, and manual manipulation. While most people will not need herbal medicine, if you do require it there will be an additional cost of approximately $2-5 per day of the prescription as these are not covered by ICBC.
Can I combine acupuncture with other forms of treatment?
Yes. Combining treatment modalities can significantly improve recovery time and outcome. However, it is recommended to limit yourself to one treatment modality per day.
How often and how long should I be treated?
Everyone's recovery time will be different. In the acute stage, right after the accident, it will be important to have treatment at least twice a week and as your condition improves we will be able to increase the duration between treatments.
Can acupuncture help my accident related anxiety and insomnia?
Yes, acupuncture is not just for physical pain. Your body may be stuck in a sympathetic nervous system response (fight or flight) following the accident and because of that is not able to settle and start healing. Acupuncture can help to reset and nervous system and get your nervous system back into a balanced state.
Can children involved in a car accident receive acupuncture? What if they are afraid of needles?
Generally we will use acupressure message or tapping at acupuncture points for the treatment of children. If the child is comfortable with trying pins, we only use the tinniest of pins (0.16mm thick by 1.5cm long) and they are only retained for a few minutes.
What types of motor vehicle accident related injuries can acupuncture help?
Insomnia
Fatigue
Palpitations
PTSD/ Anxiety
High blood pressure
Whiplash
Neck Pain
Shoulder Pain
Back Pain
Pelvic/ Leg Pain
Concussion
Headache
Dizziness
Numbness and tingling
Ringing in ears