At Amia Health, we are here to support you as best as possible. Check out our FAQ section below and feel free to contact us directly if you have any further questions!
Hours of operation
M-F: 9am – 4pm
Weekends: 10am – 4pm
Phone
250-999-9811
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Amia Health?
Amia Health was founded by a group of Occupational Therapists united by a common purpose: to challenge conventional approaches to health, recovery, and wellness optimization. Our commitment is to deliver person-centred care focused on understanding your unique goals, motivations, and needs in order to support your optimal functionality. By better understanding your health objectives and needs, we can provide a more tailored and effective plan of action to support your path to wellness and empower you to achieve your desired outcomes.
Who can benefit from Occupational Therapy?
The quick answer is…everyone! Occupational therapy can benefit people of all ages and abilities. It is often used to help individuals with: Difficulties with their routine either at home, school, work, or in the community Physical, cognitive, or emotional injuries/disabilities Neurological conditions such as stroke or traumatic brain injury (including concussion) Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression Chronic pain or fatigue Developmental disabilities Aging-related conditions such as arthritis or dementia Substance abuse or addiction Individuals coping with major life transitions
Who can benefit from Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy can help individuals experiencing a wide array of mental health conditions and emotional challenges. It can be especially useful to: Individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression Couples facing relationship challenges Children and adolescents navigating emotional issues People experiencing trauma or grief Individuals with addiction or substance abuse issues Adults with attention deficit disorders Those seeking career or life coaching Individuals coping with major life transitions
Who can benefit from nutrition and food counselling?
Registered Dietitians help translate scientific, medical, and nutrition information into practical, therapeutic recommendations and meal plans tailored to an individual’s goals or needs. They can help: Individuals looking to manage their weight effectively Those with specific dietary restrictions or allergies People with medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease Athletes seeking optimized nutrition plans Anyone wanting to improve their overall eating habits and well-being Parents looking to establish healthy eating habits for their children Individuals with digestive disorders such as IBS or celiac disease Pregnant or nursing women seeking nutritional guidance Seniors interested in maintaining their health through diet
What if I don’t know which profession to book an appointment with?
That’s okay. At Amia Health we are here to support you as you navigate your journey. Feel free to reach out to admin@amiahealth.ca and one of our clinical navigators will be able to provide you with some guidance and match you with a clinician that best suits your goals and needs.
How much do services cost?
The cost of our services depends on which services you choose. Third-party payers: Services provided through WorkSafe BC, ICBC, Veterans Affairs Canada, and some extended health benefit providers are billed directly to the provider and there is no payment from you as the client. Payment will be confirmed prior to services being provided. Medical-Legal Services: These services are typically billed directly to your legal team or insurer. Payment will be confirmed prior to services being provided. Private Pay Services: We provide several customized options for those seeking to pay out-of-pocket. A quote will be provided prior to services being provided.
What to expect for your first appointment?
Your first appointment may take place in our clinic, in the community, or at your home, depending on the purpose of the visit. It is best to wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, bring water/snacks, and any relevant medication/documentation.
Where do I find your office?
Your therapist will meet you at the main reception at the time of your appointment and bring you to the office. We are located within Coastal Offices at 328 Wale Road (unit 132). Parking is available on the top/main level. Parking can be accessed by turning into the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express. The main entrance is located at the very end of the parking lot (past the main doors to the Holiday Inn Express). There is free parking on the main level, but if it is full more parking is available below in the P1 lot (elevators and stairs can be accessed to meet your therapist at the main reception).
Do I need a referral?
Our team does not require a referral for any of our services. However, a referral is sometimes required for coverage/payment. If you are unsure, please check with your provider or contact our team directly.
What is a Functional Capacity Evaluation?
A functional capacity evaluation (FCE) is a comprehensive assessment undertaken by an occupational therapist to evaluate an individual’s physical and functional abilities. The primary goal of an FCE is to determine an individual’s capacity to perform essential tasks and functions related to their work, especially if they have experienced an injury, illness, or disability. FCEs are typically used in legal, workers’ compensation and disability cases to assess an individual’s ability to work or to determine their eligibility for disability benefits.
What to expect
Interview:
The first step of most FCEs is a detailed interview where you will be asked to provide information about your medical history, current health status, and any prior injuries or medical conditions. As part of this interview, the occupational therapist may review your medical records to gain a comprehensive understanding of your condition. These may include physician reports, diagnostic tests, and notes from previous therapy sessions. During the interview, you will also be asked about your job duties and any challenges you may face while performing those duties.
Physical Mobility Testing:
After you complete the initial interview, the FCE will turn its focus to your physical abilities. The occupational therapist will assess your musculoskeletal system, looking at factors such as muscle strength, joint range of motion, joint stability, and muscle endurance. This examination is intended to identify any physical impairments or limitations. Following this assessment, the therapist will look at your neurological functioning, focusing on sensation, coordination, and reflexes to determine if there are any neurological factors affecting your abilities. Finally, the therapist will assess your pain levels, the location of your pain, and your response to pain during specific movements or activities. This information is used to create a picture of how pain is affecting your functional capacity.
Functional Testing:
At this stage of the FCE, the therapist may, depending on your occupation, try to design activities that simulate job-specific tasks. If you work in a warehouse, for example, you may be asked to lift, carry, or manipulate objects similar to those that you would encounter on the job. In addition to these work-oriented tasks, the therapist may also assess your ability to perform essential activities of daily living, such as getting dressed, bathing, cooking, and cleaning. By replicating these tasks during the evaluation, the therapist can assess your ability to carry out essential job and home functions safely and effectively.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Testing:
During the FCE, your therapist may examine your cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and ability to sustain physical effort. To accomplish this, you may be asked to wear various equipment designed to measure your heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate during activities. The data gathered through these assessments helps the therapist make informed decisions regarding rehabilitation, workplace accommodations, and return-to-work planning.
Psychosocial Testing:
In some cases, your therapist may also consider your psychosocial and emotional well-being. Some individuals may experience anxiety, fear, depression, or lack of motivation, which can affect their ability to perform tasks even if they have the physical capacity to do so. By considering psychosocial factors, your occupational therapist can tailor interventions and recommendations to support your mental and emotional wellbeing.
Cognitive Testing:
Depending on the purpose of the assessment, your occupational therapist may complete more in-depth cognitive assessments. This could include paper and pencil assessment, computer-based testing, and work simulation testing. Your therapist may look at several cognitive domains including memory, attention, processing speed, executive functioning, and more. By assessing cognitive abilities your occupational therapist can tailor interventions and recommendations to support recovery.
Analysis:
Following the evaluation, your occupational therapist will compile a detailed report that summarizes their findings. This report includes information on your functional abilities, limitations, and any observed difficulties or pain responses during the evaluation. Based on the evaluation results, your therapist may provide recommendations for further medical treatment, physical therapy, assistive devices, or workplace accommodations. In certain cases, where an individual is involved in a legal matter or workers’ compensation cases, an FCE report can play a crucial role in determining their eligibility for benefits, return-to-work decisions, and potential vocational retraining if they are unable to perform their previous job.
What is a Cost of Future Care analysis?
A cost of future care analysis (CFCA) is a comprehensive assessment conducted by one of Amia Health’s occupational therapists that will provide an estimate of future costs associated with the care, support, and services required by an individual who has sustained a severe injury, illness, or disability. A CFCA can play an important role in legal, insurance, disability or compensation matters.
What to expect
Initial assessment:
The CFCA process begins with a thorough assessment of your current health condition, functional abilities, and limitations. One of our occupational therapists will review your medical records, diagnostic reports, and any expert medical opinions to understand the nature and extent of your injury or disability. The therapist will then consult with other healthcare professionals involved in your care in order to gain insights into your current and future medical needs, necessary treatments, medications, assistive devices, therapies, and other required healthcare services.
Functional assessment:
Once the initial assessment is complete, your therapist will assess your functional abilities, focusing on activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living. This assessment helps to determine the level of assistance needed for everyday activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and managing finances.
Environmental evaluation:
Your living environment will also be assessed as part of the CFCA process to identify necessary modifications or accommodations. This typically includes an evaluation of the home’s accessibility, safety hazards and suitability, and may include recommendations for adaptations like ramps, handrails, or specialized equipment.
Required support services and medications:
The CFCA will also investigate the rehabilitation services, therapies, and assistive devices that are necessary for your optimal functioning and independence. Future costs related to medical supplies, medications, and other specialized equipment will be examined based on your medical condition and anticipated needs. Moreover, the analysis will estimate the costs, if any, associated with attendants or support workers necessary for personal care, supervision, or assistance with daily tasks, as well as the anticipated costs for future medical care, such as surgeries, therapies, consultations, and medical procedures—based on your medical condition and expected progression.
Education, transportation, and mobility:
If applicable, your therapist will investigate costs related to ongoing education, vocational training, or employment support services, including costs linked to vocational programs, tuition fees, and any necessary accommodations in educational settings or workplaces. Also considered in the analysis are future transportation needs, including modifications to vehicles, accessible transportation services, or specialized mobility equipment.
Analysis:
The findings of your therapist’s analysis will be documented in a detailed report that will outline the estimated future costs, justifications for each estimation, and the methodology used. The CFCA is an important document used in legal proceedings, insurance claims, disability claims or compensation negotiations. It provides a comprehensive roadmap that ensures your future needs will be met in legal, insurance, or compensation contexts.
What is a driving analysis?
A driving analysis is a specialized assessment, conducted by one of Amia Health’s occupational therapists, that will evaluate your ability to drive safely and independently. This type of assessment is typically undertaken by individuals who have experienced injuries, illnesses, or disabilities that have impacted their driving skills. It is often required for legal purposes, insurance claims, disability claims, or driver’s license evaluations.
What to expect
Clinical assessment:
When you undergo a driving analysis at Amia Health, one of our occupational therapists will begin by reviewing your medical history, cognitive abilities, vision, motor skills, and overall physical health. This assessment is designed to help us identify underlying conditions that may affect your ability to drive.
The therapist will typically start by assessing your cognitive abilities, looking at attention, memory, decision making, and reaction time, as well as your perceptual abilities to ensure you can respond effectively to various stimuli on the road.
Next the therapist will evaluate your visual acuity, peripheral vision, depth perception, and night vision to determine if you meet the visual standards required for safe driving. Visual aids or adaptive devices may be recommended if needed.
Your physical and motor skills, including strength, coordination, flexibility, and reaction time are also assessed in order to determine if you can operate all vehicle controls safely and effectively.
On-road evaluation:
In order to thoroughly evaluate your driving skills and abilities, one of Amia Health’s therapists will take you on the road to watch you drive in real traffic conditions. The therapist will assess your ability to navigate intersections, change lanes, respond to traffic signals, and make safe decisions. They may also evaluate your ability to park and perform other essential driving maneuvers. This will be completed with your therapist and a trained driving instructor in a modified vehicle which has dual controls for safety.
Adaptive equipment and/or vehicle modifications:
If you experience challenges that can be mitigated with adaptive equipment or vehicle modifications, your therapist will assess the suitability of the adaptations, which may include devices like hand controls, steering aids, or modified mirrors. If you would benefit from additional training, your therapist may recommend a rehabilitation program that can provide training to improve specific driving skills that will enhance overall road safety.
Recommendations:
After performing the necessary assessments, your therapist will provide detailed recommendations that may include suggestions for additional training, adaptive equipment, restricted driving conditions, or, in some cases, recommendations against driving if it is deemed unsafe. The recommendations are designed to ensure not just your own safety, but the safety of other road users as well. Ultimately, the goal of a driving analysis is to determine your fitness to drive safely and independently. In some scenarios alternative transportation solutions may be recommended. All of this information will be outlined in a comprehensive report outlining the assessment results, recommendations, and justifications.
What is a home safety evaluation?
A home safety evaluation is an assessment of your home environment to identify potential hazards and recommend modifications that enhance safety and independence. The evaluation is particularly important for individuals with disabilities, seniors, or those recovering from serious injuries. The evaluations are undertaken to ensure that your living space is optimized to support your daily activities.
What to expect
Initial assessment:
Home safety evaluations typically begin with a thorough assessment of your medical history, functional abilities, and an understanding of the challenges you face in your home environment. During this assessment, one of Amia Health’s therapists will talk about your daily routines, mobility, and any difficulties you encounter while performing certain tasks at home.
Home inspection:
Once the therapist has completed their initial assessment, they will conduct an inspection of your home. During this inspection, the therapist will examine the lighting, flooring, furniture arrangement, doorway widths, and any potential obstacles. They will also look at your bathroom and kitchen for accessibility and safety. One of the reasons for this inspection is to identify potential safety hazards such as slippery floors, uneven surfaces, clutter, or inadequate lighting, and to assess fall risks and other dangers that may compromise your safety. During this inspection, your therapist will assess the need for environmental adaptations like lever-style door handles, easy-to-use faucets, or touch/motion sensitive lighting systems. They may also recommend specific assistive devices such as grab bars, shower chairs, raised toilet seats, mobility aids, or other home modifications such as ramps, widened doorways, or stairlifts to improve accessibility.
Analysis:
Once your therapist has completed a thorough review of your home, they will compile a comprehensive report that will detail their findings and recommendations. The report acts as a valuable reference for yourself, your family, and healthcare providers. It is also often used to implement necessary modifications and secure funding for assistive devices or home adaptations. Ultimately, a home safety evaluation by one of Amia Health’s occupational therapists is an in-depth process that aims to create a safe and accessible living environment tailored to your individual needs. By identifying potential hazards and recommending appropriate and thoughtful modifications, the evaluation will enhance your safety, independence and, and overall quality of life within your home.
What is a functional mobility assessment?
A functional mobility assessment (“FMA”) is an evaluation undertaken by an occupational therapist that assesses your ability to perform functional movements necessary for everyday living and mobility. This assessment is designed to create an understanding of your physical abilities, limitations, and the impact these have on your independence and quality of life.
What to expect
Initial assessment:
Most FMAs will begin with a review of your medical history, current health status, and any specific concerns related to mobility or functional limitations. Your therapist will discuss your daily routines, challenges, and goals regarding mobility.
Mobility assessment:
Following the initial assessment, your therapist will undertake a series of mobility assessments to evaluate your range of motion and strength, balance and coordination, and gait. The therapist will typically begin by assessing your joint rang of motion and muscle strength in various parts of your body to help identify limitations, weaknesses, or areas where your mobility may be compromised.
Your therapist will also observe your ability to maintain balance in different positions, and whether you can perform coordinated movements, and/or navigate various surfaces or terrains. Your therapist will also observe and examine your walking pattern, taking a close look at your stride length, step symmetry, posture, foot placement, and any abnormalities or irregularities in your gait.
Task performance:
After the mobility assessments are completed, the FMA will shift to observing you perform various functional tasks related to daily living, such as standing from a seated position, walking up and down stairs, reaching, bending, and lifting objects, and transferring from one surface to another. If you use mobility aids such as a cane or walker, your ability to use the devices will also be evaluated to test their effectiveness. Lastly, your therapist will likely assess your home or workplace environment to identify potential barriers or hazards that may impact mobility.
Analysis:
Once the therapist has completed their assessments, they will provide you with personalized recommendations and interventions. These may include exercises to improve your strength and flexibility, training in adaptive techniques, use of assistive devices, home modifications, or referrals to other healthcare professionals for additional interventions. Ultimately, an FMA serves as the foundation for developing personalized interventions and strategies to enhance your mobility and promote greater independence in your daily life.
What is an ergonomic assessment?
An ergonomic assessment is a systematic assessment of an individual’s workstation, tools, equipment (e.g. keyboard, mouse, chair, etc.), and environment to ensure that they have a workspace that promotes optimal comfort, safety, and efficiency. This assessment works to minimize the risk of work-related injuries and improve overall well-being and comfort.
What to expect
Initial assessment:
When you book an ergonomic assessment with Amia Health, one of our therapists will typically begin by undertaking a review of your work environment, job tasks, and any specific concerns related to discomfort, pain, or physical strain. They will talk about your work routine, any challenges you face completing your work, and any discomfort or pain.
Workstation assessment:
After your initial assessment, your therapist will look at your workstation layout, including the desk, computer, chair, keyboard, mouse, monitor, and any other tool you may use as part of your work. They will analyze the arrangement of the items, your seating posture, monitor height and distance, keyboard and mouse positioning, and other ergonomic factors. As part of this assessment, your therapist will also evaluate your posture and body mechanics while performing your work. They will observe you how sit, stand, reach, lift, and perform other job-specific movements, identifying any incorrect postures or movements that may result in an injury. This assessment also includes an analysis of your job tasks, including the frequency, duration, and nature of the tasks you perform. This is done in order to identify ergonomic risk factors and repetitive movements that could contribute to musculoskeletal issues.
Additional assessments:
As part of an ergonomic assessment, your therapist will also examine the tools and equipment that are used in the workplace. They will evaluate the design, usability, and appropriateness of the tools in relation to the job tasks you are expected to perform. They’ll also consider environmental factors, such as lighting, noise, temperature, and ventilation, as these factors can impact your comfort and productivity in the workplace.
Analysis:
When your assessment is complete, your therapist will provide a report with recommendations and interventions that will optimize your workstation and work practices. Some of the recommendations may involve ergonomic adjustments to furniture and equipment, suggestions for proper body mechanics, postural corrections, stretching exercises, or recommendations for additional ergonomic accessories.
Ready for change?
Ready to experience our top-quality services? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards achieving your goals.