Since May 2021, British Columbia has operated under an Enhanced Care insurance model — often called “no-fault” coverage. This means that if you are injured in a car accident, you receive treatment and recovery benefits regardless of who caused the accident. At Artemis Wellness Clinic in Richmond, we help patients understand and access their Enhanced Care benefits every day.
What Changed Under Enhanced Care
Before Enhanced Care, BC operated under a tort-based system where your compensation depended on proving the other driver was at fault. Injured people often waited months or years for settlements, delaying treatment. Under the current no-fault model, everyone injured in a car accident receives the same treatment coverage. You do not need to prove fault. You do not need to hire a lawyer to access treatment. Benefits begin quickly after your claim is filed. Treatment is available as long as it is medically necessary.
What Benefits You Receive
Under Enhanced Care, car accident victims in BC are entitled to medical and rehabilitation treatment (including RMT, acupuncture, physiotherapy, chiropractic, and kinesiology), income replacement if you cannot work due to your injuries, permanent impairment compensation if applicable, vocational rehabilitation if needed, and attendant care benefits for severe injuries.
For most patients who come to Artemis, the medical and rehabilitation treatment benefits are the most relevant. These cover all five treatment disciplines we offer, with no fixed session limits.
How This Affects Your Treatment at Artemis
The Enhanced Care model makes accessing treatment simpler. You file your claim with ICBC. You choose your providers — including Artemis. We bill ICBC directly. You receive treatment without upfront cost. Your coverage continues based on medical necessity, not fault determination.
Whether you were the driver, a passenger, a pedestrian, or a cyclist — and regardless of who caused the accident — you receive the same treatment benefits.
Common Misconceptions
Many patients come to us with incorrect beliefs about ICBC coverage. Here are the facts.
“I caused the accident, so ICBC won’t cover my treatment.” This is false. Under Enhanced Care, treatment benefits are the same for all parties in an accident.
“I need a lawyer to get treatment.” This is false. You can access treatment directly through your ICBC claim without legal representation.
“ICBC will only cover a few sessions.” This is false. There is no fixed session limit. Coverage is based on medical necessity.
“I need ICBC’s permission to start treatment.” This is false. You can begin treatment immediately and provide your claim number when it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did no-fault insurance start in BC?
The Enhanced Care model took effect on May 1, 2021.
Can I still sue the other driver?
Under Enhanced Care, the right to sue for pain and suffering has been replaced with defined benefits. You receive benefits regardless of fault, but you cannot sue for general damages. Exceptions exist for certain serious impairments.
How do I file an ICBC claim?
Contact ICBC by phone or through their online portal. You will receive a claim number that you provide to your treatment providers.
How long do I have to file an ICBC claim?
You should file as soon as possible after your accident. There are time limits for filing claims — generally within 180 days for Enhanced Care benefits.
Access Your ICBC Benefits at Artemis
We are here to help you navigate the Enhanced Care system and get the treatment you need. Call 604-242-2233 or book at artemis.janeapp.com. Artemis Wellness Clinic, 5911 No. 3 Rd #130, Richmond BC.