Short answer: no, you don't need a referral
In Ontario, you can see a vestibular physiotherapist without a doctor's referral. You are free to book directly with Burlington Vestibular Therapy — no prescription, no waiting for a referral letter, and no extra appointments. If you're dealing with vertigo, dizziness, or balance problems, you can start treatment right away.
Direct access physiotherapy in Ontario
Ontario is a direct access province for physiotherapy. This means that under the Regulated Health Professions Act, physiotherapists are recognized as primary care providers who can assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and vestibular conditions independently.
You have the legal right to see a physiotherapist as your first point of contact — without seeing a doctor first. This applies to all areas of physiotherapy, including specialized vestibular therapy.
Direct access is particularly valuable for vestibular conditions because early assessment often leads to faster recovery. Conditions like BPPV, for example, can frequently be resolved in one or two treatment sessions. Waiting weeks for a referral only delays relief.
When a referral might help
While a referral is never required to see us, there are a few situations where having one can be useful:
- Insurance requirements — Some extended health benefit plans require a doctor's referral before they will reimburse physiotherapy visits. Check your plan details or call your insurance provider to confirm. If a referral is needed for coverage, your family doctor or walk-in clinic physician can provide one quickly.
- Complex medical history — If you have other medical conditions alongside your vestibular symptoms (such as a recent head injury, neurological concerns, or cardiovascular issues), a referral helps us coordinate your care with your medical team.
- Diagnostic imaging or specialist referrals — A doctor's referral is needed for imaging like MRI or CT scans, or for referrals to an ENT specialist or neurologist. If we determine during your assessment that further investigation is warranted, we can recommend that you follow up with your physician.
In most cases, though, you can simply book and attend your first appointment without any paperwork from your doctor.
Insurance coverage
Most extended health benefit plans in Ontario cover physiotherapy, including vestibular rehabilitation. Here's what you should know:
- Employer-sponsored plans typically include physiotherapy coverage, often ranging from $300 to $1,000 or more per year. Vestibular therapy is billed as physiotherapy and falls under your physiotherapy benefit.
- Referral requirements vary by plan. Some insurers require a referral for reimbursement, while many do not. It's always worth checking your plan booklet or calling your benefits provider to confirm.
- Direct billing — Burlington Vestibular Therapy offers direct billing to most major insurance providers. This means we submit the claim on your behalf, so you don't have to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
- OHIP does not cover private physiotherapy. Ontario's public health insurance does not cover physiotherapy at private clinics. However, OHIP does cover physiotherapy for those under 25, over 65, or recently discharged from hospital.
If you're unsure about your coverage, give us a call at 905-635-5711 and we can help you sort out the details before your first visit.
How to book without a referral
Getting started is straightforward:
- Book online — Use our online booking system to choose a time that works for you. Book your vestibular assessment — no referral needed.
- Call us — Prefer to speak with someone? Call 905-635-5711 and we'll get you scheduled.
- Attend your assessment — At your first visit, your physiotherapist will conduct a thorough vestibular assessment to determine the cause of your symptoms and begin treatment. You can read more about what to expect at your first visit.
There are no forms to fill out from your doctor, no approval process, and no wait times beyond our regular scheduling availability.
What if my doctor referred me?
If your doctor has already provided a referral for vestibular therapy, we're happy to accept it. A referral gives us useful background information about your medical history and any tests or imaging that have already been completed. This can help us tailor your assessment from the start.
Whether you come with a referral or without one, you'll receive the same thorough assessment and evidence-based treatment at Burlington Vestibular Therapy. The referral simply provides additional context — it doesn't change the quality or scope of your care.
If your doctor has given you a referral, bring it along to your first appointment or have their office fax it to us ahead of time.
Ready to get started?
You don't need to wait for a referral to address your vertigo, dizziness, or balance concerns. At Burlington Vestibular Therapy, we're here to help you get answers and start feeling better as soon as possible.
Book your vestibular assessment — no referral needed. Or call us at 905-635-5711.