On your first ICBC in-home physiotherapy visit, your therapist will review your accident history and symptoms, assess movement (walking, range of motion, strength), start treatment if appropriate, and give you a simple home program. To prepare, have your ICBC claim details ready, wear comfortable clothes, and clear a small space for assessment.

Why In-Home ICBC Physio Can Be Easier (Especially Early On)

After a car accident, getting out the door can be hard—pain, headaches, dizziness, sleep disruption, and stress can all make travel difficult.

In-home rehab helps because:

You avoid driving (or arranging rides) while you're sore or symptomatic
Your therapist can assess real-life movements in your space (stairs, couch, workstation)
Your home exercise plan is built around what you actually have at home

What to Have Ready for an ICBC Home Visit (Simple Checklist)

You don't need much. This is the "smoothest first visit" list:

ICBC Details (Most Important)

ICBC claim number (if you have it)
Date of the accident
Adjuster/representative name (optional but helpful)

If you don't have your claim number yet:

That's okay—many people book the first conversation/visit and supply the number as soon as they get it. Ask your provider what they need.

Health Details That Save Time

Your top 3 symptoms (e.g., neck pain, headaches, low back pain)
What makes symptoms worse (driving, sitting, lifting, sleep)
Any imaging or ER/urgent care discharge notes (if you have them)
A short medication list (optional)

How to Prepare Your Home in 5 Minutes

You don't need a "gym setup." Just create a safe little assessment area.

Do this:

Clear a small space (about 2m x 2m) in the living room or hallway
Have a stable chair ready (no wheels)
Wear comfortable clothes you can move in
Keep supportive shoes nearby (walking/balance checks)

If stairs are an issue:

Tell your therapist. Stairs are often part of the functional assessment, but only if it's safe and relevant.

What Happens During the First In-Home Visit (Step-by-Step)

Every provider is a bit different, but a quality first home visit usually includes:

Step 1: A Short Conversation (Your Story + Goals)

What happened, what hurts now, what's changed since the crash
Your "must get back to" goal (work, driving, sleep, caring for family)

Step 2: Movement and Function Assessment

Depending on your symptoms, your therapist may check:

Neck/back/shoulder range of motion
Strength and coordination
Walking, balance, and turning
Functional tasks like sit-to-stand, stairs, reaching, bending

Step 3: Treatment (If Appropriate)

This may include:

Hands-on therapy
Gentle mobility work
Guided exercises
Pacing strategies to reduce flare-ups

Step 4: A Simple Home Program You Can Actually Follow

You should leave the first visit with:

2–4 starter exercises
Clear instructions (how often, how hard, what's "too much")
What to do if symptoms spike

After the Visit: What a Good ICBC Rehab Plan Includes

A good plan is more than "random exercises."

Look for:

A clear diagnosis or working hypothesis (what they think is going on)
Progress markers (sleep improvement, driving tolerance, walking duration, range of motion)
A schedule that makes sense (especially in the first few weeks)
Education on pacing (so you don't overdo it then crash)

In-home care advantage:

Your therapist can adjust exercises to your couch height, stair layout, and workspace—so rehab fits real life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a doctor's referral for ICBC physiotherapy in BC?

Often you can start without one, but requirements can vary. If you're unsure, ask when booking.

Can you direct bill ICBC for in-home physiotherapy?

Many providers can direct bill for eligible claims. Confirm what information they need (usually your claim number and personal details).

What should I wear?

Comfortable clothes you can move in (t-shirt + shorts/leggings). Have supportive shoes available.

How soon should I start rehab after a car accident?

Sooner is often better, especially for restoring normal movement patterns and preventing fear-based avoidance—while staying within safe limits for your symptoms.

Ready to book your first ICBC in-home physiotherapy visit? Contact us to schedule a home visit, or learn more about our ICBC In-Home Physiotherapy service with direct billing. If your recovery calls for ongoing support, explore our Mobile Kinesiology options for rehab progression.

ICBC In-Home Physiotherapy: What to Expect on Your First Home Visit (BC Checklist)