ICBC and WorkSafeBC – Updates for physicians

Doctors of BC works collaboratively with ICBC and WorkSafeBC to provide support and assistance to physicians in their work with these organizations.

Here is November’s update to keep you informed in your day-to-day work.

WorkSafeBC updates

New WorkSafeBC Billing Tips article: Billing Expedited Comprehensive Consultations

As part of an ongoing WorkSafeBC billing series in the BC Medical Journal (BCMJ), Doctors of BC has published its latest article which explains how to bill for Expedited Comprehensive Consultations and offers advice to make the process smoother—avoiding payment delays and rejections. 

ICBC updates 

ICBC Family physician fee increases

Each year, ICBC adjusts the fees and benefit limits outlined in the Insurance Vehicle Regulation and the Enhanced Accident Benefit Regulation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This year, the CPI increase is four percent, effective for health care services administered in April 2024. Members can access the increase information in the Fee Guide (login required), and on the ICBC website. 

Physician Conference Fee Code Reminder 

When it comes to physician consultations with ICBC or other treatment providers, a verbal or written consultation per 15 minutes or portion thereof is allowed, with a daily maximum of 45 minutes per claim. Physician consultation is defined as an interactive exchange of information for the purpose of addressing barriers and discussing care plan recommendations and must take place with ICBC or others. The physician conference fee is not for administrative tasks, such as arranging expedited consults or diagnostic investigations.  

Early Access Concussion Recovery Program 

ICBC continues to run its Early Access Concussion Recovery (EACR) Pilot Program, which aims to provide early education, reassurance, and interdisciplinary intervention for ICBC customers who have sustained concussions in a collision. Physician support is crucial in ensuring that eligible patients receive the timely and specialized care they need for effective concussion recovery. Since it launched in March, the program has expanded to include 60 clinics throughout the province. More details, including eligibility criteria and referral process, are available in the ICBC Fall newsletter. 

More information for physicians 

Visit the Doctors of BC Workplace Requirements webpage for educational resources, articles, and more information about WorkSafeBC, ICBC, and workplace safety. 

If you want to know more about WorkSafeBC registration requirements, Doctors of BC and WorkSafeBC’s Physician Guide can help you determine if you are required to register. You can also watch our educational video on YouTube. 

Our WorkSafeBC Liaison Committee and ICBC Committee strive to engage and collaborate with WorkSafeBC and ICBC, streamlining work and providing support to doctors. 

• If you have any questions about WorkSafeBC, please email View Email Addressworksafebc@doctorsofbc.ca  

• If you have questions about ICBC, please email View Email Addressicbc@doctorsofbc.ca