When a claim is accepted, the WCB will begin paying benefits and help you connect with the supports you need. The information below will help you understand the health care benefits available. Your case manager will work closely with you to explain the benefits you are eligible for, answer any questions, and help ensure you receive the services you need throughout your claim.
Types of health care benefits
Health care benefits may include, but are not limited to:
- Chiropractic services
- Medical and dental treatment
- Medical supplies and assistive devices
- Medications
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Psychology or counselling
- Transportation costs related to your injury
Health care benefits are approved based on WCB policies. It’s important that you discuss all treatment, supplies, and services with your case manager to make sure they are approved.
Treatment
You may receive initial medical treatment following your injury with a direct access health care provider such as a family or ER doctor, physiotherapist, or chiropractor.
Any follow-up treatment should be provided by a health care professional who is familiar with your health, if possible – such as a family doctor, a physiotherapist, or a chiropractor. Please note that you may not transfer from the physiotherapist or chiropractor treating your work-related injury without approval from the WCB.
Medications
The WCB offers a Direct Pay Prescription Drug Program. The program allows pharmacies across Atlantic Canada to bill the WCB for your approved prescriptions for a work-related injury or illness.
To use the Direct Pay service, provide your WCB claim number, name, and date of birth to the pharmacy each time you fill a prescription. If the prescribed drug is approved for your work-related injury, it will be given to you at no cost.
All prescriptions must be pre-approved by the WCB, and only medications that relate to your work-related injury or illness will be covered. Medications that you were taking prior to your claim will not be covered.
What happens if direct payment for a prescription is denied?
You may choose to pay for the prescription and then submit the official receipt to the WCB for review. If it is determined that the drug is covered by the WCB, you will be reimbursed. You will be advised in writing if the WCB determines that the prescribed drug is not covered.
Expenses
If you are required to pay for medical treatment, transportation costs for treatment, medication, or medical supplies associated with your work-related injury, you can request reimbursement. Learn more about expense reimbursement.