If you have extended health insurance in Ontario, your massage therapy sessions may already be covered. Most private insurance plans include Registered Massage Therapy (RMT) under paramedical services — alongside physiotherapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture.
As a CMTO-registered RMT in Ottawa, I provide professional insurance receipts after every session. Whether you visit a clinic or receive treatment at home, your coverage works the same way.
Here is what you need to know about massage therapy insurance in Ontario.
Is Massage Therapy Covered by OHIP?
No. The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover massage therapy. Coverage for RMT sessions comes exclusively from private extended health insurance — typically provided through your employer, your spouse's employer, or a plan you purchase individually.
This is the case for most paramedical services in Ontario, including physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture.
Which Insurance Plans Cover Massage Therapy?
Most major Canadian insurance providers include massage therapy in their extended health plans. The coverage amount varies depending on your specific plan tier, but common providers include:
- Sun Life
- Manulife
- Canada Life
- Blue Cross
- Desjardins
- Green Shield Canada
Each plan sets its own annual maximum, reimbursement percentage, and per-visit cap. For example, some plans may cover $500 per year for massage therapy, while others may cover $1,000 or more. Some plans reimburse 80% of each session, while others cover the full amount up to a cap.
To find out your specific coverage, check your benefits booklet, log into your insurer's online portal, or call your plan's member services line.
Do You Need a Doctor's Referral?
In most cases, no. In Ontario, Registered Massage Therapists are regulated healthcare professionals under the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). You do not need a doctor's referral to book or receive treatment from an RMT.
However, some employer insurance plans may require a physician's referral before they reimburse your claim. This is a plan-specific requirement, not a provincial one. If you are unsure, check with your insurance provider before your first appointment.
What Should Be on Your Receipt?
For your insurance claim to be accepted, your receipt must include:
- The therapist's full name
- Their CMTO registration number
- Date and duration of each treatment
- Amount paid
- Clinic or business name and address
I provide detailed insurance receipts by email after every session, with all the information your insurer needs to process your claim. You can submit the receipt through your insurer's app or online portal — it usually takes just a few minutes.
Is Mobile Massage Covered the Same Way?
Yes. Insurance coverage is based on the therapist's qualifications, not the location of treatment. Whether you receive your massage at a clinic, at a hospital, or at home, your insurance coverage is the same — as long as the treatment is performed by a Registered Massage Therapist.
This means that in-home massage therapy sessions are fully eligible for insurance reimbursement, just like clinic-based sessions.
Can You Claim Massage Therapy on Your Taxes?
Yes. In Ontario, payments to a Registered Massage Therapist are considered eligible medical expenses by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You can claim the portion you paid out of pocket — meaning the amount your insurance did not reimburse — on your income tax return under medical expenses.
Keep all your receipts, as the CRA may request documentation. Note that there is a minimum threshold for the medical expense tax credit to apply, based on your income. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your situation.
How to Make the Most of Your Benefits
Many people do not use their full massage therapy coverage each year. Here are a few practical tips:
- Check your annual maximum early in the year — plan your sessions to use your full coverage before it resets
- Keep track of your remaining balance — most insurers show this on their app or portal
- Book regular sessions — consistent treatment is more effective than occasional visits for managing pain or tension
- Save your receipts — even if your insurance covers the full cost, keep receipts for your tax return in case of out-of-pocket amounts
- Check your spouse's plan — if you have reached your maximum, your spouse's plan may offer additional coverage
Insurance Coverage with Sunisa RMT
As a CMTO-registered Registered Massage Therapist, I provide:
- Professional insurance receipts sent by email after every session
- All required information for insurance claims (name, registration number, date, duration, amount)
- The same coverage eligibility whether your session is at home or elsewhere
If you have extended health benefits and would like to use them for professional massage therapy in Ottawa, you can book your session online.
FAQ — Massage Therapy Insurance in Ontario
Does OHIP cover massage therapy?
No. Massage therapy is not covered by OHIP. You need private extended health insurance for coverage.
Do I need a referral to see an RMT in Ontario?
Generally, no. However, some insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement. Check with your insurer to be sure.
Is mobile massage therapy covered by insurance?
Yes. Coverage is based on the therapist's credentials, not the location. In-home sessions with a registered RMT are covered the same as clinic visits.
How do I submit my massage therapy receipt?
Most insurers allow you to submit receipts through their app or online portal. Simply upload a photo or PDF of the receipt I send you by email after your session.
