What is the difference between private and public pediatric therapy in BC?

The main difference is who pays and how you get in. Public pediatric therapy in BC is government-funded and offered through specific programs, each with its own eligibility rules and referral route. Private therapy is paid by families or through extended health benefits, and families choose and contact the provider themselves.

Public options in BC include:

• Early Intervention Therapy program: occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech-language pathology and support services for eligible children from birth to school entry who have, or are at risk of, a developmental delay or disability. Services happen at home and in community settings such as preschools and child care, and the program accepts referrals from families, professionals, pediatricians and child care providers.

• Infant Development Program (birth to age 3) and Supported Child Development, which helps children with extra support needs take part in child care.

• School-age services: school-based therapy arrangements vary by region. In Greater Victoria, for example, a school-age therapy program funded by school districts and the Ministry of Children and Family Development provides OT, physiotherapy and speech services, with referral through the school-based team and parent consent.

Wait times vary by program and region, so ask the program directly when you apply.

For private therapy, check your extended health benefits before booking. The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists notes that OT coverage in benefit plans is often limited and suggests reviewing your plan, and asking your employer about adding OT if it is not covered.

If you are unsure where to start, a public health nurse or your family doctor can point you to local public programs, and a registered OT or SLP can explain what a private assessment would involve.