FAQ's
Questions
Are you registered?
Yes, we are all Registered as either Massage Therapists or Acupuncturists. Current training is an intense, 3000 hours course. Registered status is only achieved after passing the standard provincial board exams. Continuing Education is a requirement to maintain registered status. Registered Practitioners also have strict practice bylaws and guidelines and are subject to the Health Professions Act.
Will my extended health plan cover my massage? If so, how much?
Every plan is different, but the vast majority cover massage therapy. How much depends on each individual’s plan. It may either be a specific amount per visit that they will cover, or a percentage of the fee. Most plans also have a yearly cap. It is best to contact your payroll or benefits personnel before making an appointment if you are concerned about reimbursement. In Southarm Massage and Wellness Center, we do bill certain insurance companies directly. Or you can choose to receive a receipt which you can submit to your insurance company on your own.
What are the companies that you do direct billing?
We currently direct bill Manulife, Sunlife, Pacific Blue Cross, Medavie Blue Cross, ICBC, Canada life, Desjardins, Claim Secure, Chambers, GroupHealth, Industrial Alliance, Johnson Inc., and Johnston
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
You do not need to have a referral to see a Registered Massage Therapist. Only if your extended health care plan needs a doctor’s referral in order to be reimbursed for the treatments. (Double-check your policy to see whether if a referral is needed)
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy at Southarm Massage and Wellness Center is that we ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment time. Late cancellations and missed appointments are expected to be covered in full.
What type of massage do you do?
Therapeutic Massage for acute and chronic injuries or full body stress reduction. Each time you come in for a massage your therapist will design an individually tailored treatment to suit your body and provide the best massage therapy for your needs. Please let us know if you have any preference in deep tissue or lighter treatments. Our amazing therapists always work with pressure that is comfortable for you.
Is massage therapy safe in pregnancy?
Yes, massage therapy is safe in all stages of pregnancy, though techniques and positioning are modified. If you have a condition you think limits you from having a massage, give us a call and discuss it with us, as you can often continue getting a massage with most conditions, with modifications to the treatment.
What are your rates?
- 45 minutes – $95.00
- 60 minutes – $120.00
- 90 minutes – $175.00
GST is included in our prices. We accept Cash, Cheques, E-transfer, Visa, and MasterCard. These are the recommended rates from the Massage Therapy Association of BC.
Do you offer student discounts?
Unfortunately, we do not offer student discounts. However, while you are going to school full time you remain on your parents Extended Health benefits until the age of 26. Everyone’s benefits are different we suggest you check with your parents to see the specifics of their coverage.
Do you accept ICBC claims?
We do accept ICBC claims. If ICBC has approved you for treatments, we will bill directly to ICBC. You will not need to pay any fee upfront. ICBC’s initial appointment is 45mins and subsequent appointments are 30 mins. Please remember to bring your ID and ICBC claim number with you.
Do you have a receptionist?
We do not have a receptionist. Southarm Massage and Wellness Center currently operate without a receptionist. You can reach us by leaving a phone message or by email and we will get back to you ASAP.
What is the best way to book an appointment?
We have a very user-friendly online booking system that shows all appointments for each therapist. If you do not wish to use the online system, please call or email us.
What is included in my treatment/appointment time?
Health History Review, Assessment/Reassessment, Treatment and Patient Education may all be included within the allotted treatment time.
Do you accept WCB and MSP claims?
No. We currently do not accept WCB and MSP claims.
How should I prepare for my first massage appointment?
A quick trip to the bathroom just before getting on the table are recommended. We recommend you arrive 10-15 minutes early to find parking, locate the clinic, and fill out the intake history form online. You can choose to dress athletic and comfortable clothing. Your therapist will take you through an intake process to discuss your current medical health, medications, injuries, and areas of concern.
I am a lawyer requesting paperwork. How do I request for files?
Please email us your request with the client’s signed consent form to release the information and be specific on which paperwork you need. We will get back to you ASAP.
Can I park anywhere in the plaza?
On your visit to Southarm Massage Therapy and Wellness Center, you are allowed to park in any unreserved visitor parking stalls on the grounds at 10820 and 10880 No. 5 Road, and 12339 Steveston Hwy, Richmond BC for 2 hours Max or in the public P1 level in the underground parkade for 3 hours Max.