A Preferred Provider Network (PPN) is a business arrangement between an insurance company and a service provider. PPNs exist in both healthcare and non-healthcare settings.
In healthcare, a PPN often involves an agreement between an insurer and a physiotherapy business—typically a group of clinics—where the clinics agree to provide services at pre-determined rates to individuals insured by that company.
PPNs are typically defined by:
A contractual relationship between the insurer and the clinic or network of clinics, often with pre-set prices for services.
Referrals made by insurance adjusters to specific clinics based on factors such as patient outcomes, clinic availability in the area, or other performance indicators.
In Alberta, PPNs are most commonly seen in cases involving motor vehicle collisions. However, they may also apply to employer health benefits or long-term disability insurance.
To understand the concept, think of how insurers have preferred partnerships with autobody repair shops—they refer clients to shops with which they have established relationships, negotiated discounts, or verified good service. The same principle applies to physiotherapy after a collision.
There’s nothing inherently wrong with these arrangements—whether it’s for your car or your health care. So, if you’re in a motor vehicle collision and your insurer refers you to a particular clinic, it’s simply because of a pre-existing agreement between the insurer and that clinic.
No. You always have the right to choose your own physiotherapy provider.
You might prefer to continue seeing a physiotherapist you already trust, choose one close to your workplace, or visit a clinic recommended by someone you know. Whatever your reason, you are not obligated to go to the clinic recommended by your insurer.
Research shows that working with a trusted physiotherapist leads to better recovery outcomes—including reduced pain, lower disability, and greater treatment satisfaction.
This means it’s worthwhile to choose a physiotherapist you feel comfortable with, whether or not they are part of a PPN.
If you find that you cannot build trust or comfort with your current physiotherapist, it’s perfectly reasonable to change providers during your claim.
Keep in mind that all physiotherapists are trained to treat a wide variety of injuries. Most private practice physiotherapists are fully capable of managing motor vehicle–related injuries, handling the necessary insurance paperwork, and submitting direct billing on your behalf.
If you’re unsure how to navigate the process after a collision, your insurance broker can help guide you. Managing both vehicle repairs and health care can be overwhelming, especially when you’re injured.
The funding system in Alberta is designed to reduce barriers to care. Most physiotherapy clinics can direct bill insurance companies for services—especially for minor injuries like sprains, strains, or whiplash, which are common after accidents.
If you feel pressured to attend a specific clinic, or believe your insurer hasn’t explained your options clearly, you can contact the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance for assistance. They are there to ensure your rights are protected and the process remains fair.
Yes — you have the right to know if your physiotherapist has a preferred provider relationship with your insurer.
Physiotherapists are required to disclose and manage any real, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest. These conflicts might arise if financial incentives—such as payment structures based on patient numbers or treatment volume—could influence how your care is provided.
If a PPN relationship exists, your physiotherapist should:
Clearly disclose the existence and nature of that relationship.
Explain how any potential conflicts are being managed.
This transparency ensures that treatment decisions remain based solely on your best interests, not on financial or contractual influences.
While your insurer may recommend a physiotherapy clinic that’s part of their PPN, you are not required to attend it.
You have the freedom to choose your own provider—someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
Physiotherapists in private clinics are qualified to assess and treat injuries from motor vehicle collisions, manage direct billing, and help you navigate the funding process.
Ultimately, building a positive and trusting relationship with your physiotherapist is one of the most important factors in your recovery.
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