Does Your Insurance Cover OT? Here’s What You Need to Know
The short answer? Maybe. Occupational therapy is still underrepresented in many extended health benefits packages here in Ontario. The good news is that efforts are underway to change this. The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) is petitioning for increased OT coverage in benefits plans—a step in the right direction!
If you’re considering OT to support but are unsure about coverage, here’s where to start:
Steps to Check Your Coverage:
Log into your benefits portal
Review your extended benefits plan to see what’s covered. Look for OT under the “practitioners” section.Contact your benefits provider
If you’re unsure how to check, reach out to your provider directly and ask about OT coverage.
If your plan does cover OT, fantastic! You can book a discovery call or session with me at The WOMB Guelph to explore how OT can support you.
What If You Don’t Have OT Coverage?
If OT isn’t currently covered under your plan, there are still options:
Check for a Health Spending Account (HSA)
Many plans include an HSA, which allows you to submit healthcare expenses not covered under general benefits. You can find this information on your insurer’s app, website, or by calling them directly.Request flexibility within your plan
If OT isn’t covered, I can provide a letter advocating for its inclusion in your benefits. Sometimes, a little advocacy can go a long way!Explore mental health or psychotherapy benefits
As an OT practicing psychotherapy, my services may be eligible under mental health or psychotherapy benefits. If OT isn’t listed as a provider option, I’d be happy to write a letter of advocacy to help you access care.
Why OT Is Essential in Women’s and Maternal Mental Health
Occupational therapy offers holistic, individualized support for women and mothers navigating life transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood that drastically shift our roles, routines, and relationships. Whether it’s navigating perinatal mood challenges, supporting sensory and nervous system regulation, adjusting to new routines and roles, optimizing sleep, returning to work, or reconnecting with your values to rediscover joy in daily life, OT can make a profound difference.
That’s why I’m committed to advocating for the inclusion of OT services in extended health benefits plans. Every mother deserves access to compassionate, comprehensive care.
If you’re curious about how OT can support you or have questions about benefits, I’m here to help. Let’s take the first step together toward making your health and well-being a priority.
Elissa Bajac, OT Reg. (Ont.)
