Fees & FAQs

Q: Do you offer a free 15-minute phone consultation?

A: Yes. Dr. Rodrigues offers complimentary 15-minute meet-and-greet appointments where you can ask questions, discuss your goals, and determine if her approach and services are the right fit for you. Keep in mind, this appointment cannot be used for medical advice, as a thorough health history, physical examination, and diagnosis are required before any specific recommendations can be made.

Q: Do you offer virtual appointments?

A: Yes. Virtual appointments are specifically available for the health coaching aspect of my services, but can also be offered, when needed, for chiropractic patients residing in Ontario who are unable to physically attend the clinic that day due to illness or other reasons. Keep in mind, virtual chiropractic appointments will not include the hands-on portion of the visit due to the nature of the session, but can still provide assessment, education, exercise guidance, and recommendations to support your care.

Q: What are your specific fees?

A: Fees and appointment lengths have been carefully and thoughtfully set to reflect Dr. Rodrigues’ expertise, the time dedicated to each patient, and the comprehensive style of care she provides.

Q: Do you only see female patients?

A: No. While my website and treatment style highlight in-depth care for the female population, as a regulated healthcare practitioner in Ontario I do not discriminate against any person. I welcome all individuals for chiropractic care, health coaching, and product fittings, with the focus always on providing personalized, evidence-informed care that supports each person’s unique needs.

Q: Do I need a referral from a medical doctor to see a chiropractor?

A: No. You do not need a referral from a medical doctor to see a chiropractor. In Ontario, chiropractors are primary care professionals, which means you can book an appointment directly whenever you feel it’s needed.

Q: If I’m already a patient of Dr. Rodrigues, do I need to book an initial consultation for health coaching?

A: If you’ve already completed an initial consultation with Dr. Rodrigues, you do not need to book another initial appointment for health coaching. If your health coaching goals align with the information gathered during your chiropractic initial visit, Dr. Rodrigues may simply ask a few additional questions to help tailor your health coaching plan. In most cases, you can move straight into this type of care without booking a separate initial consultation.

Q: Can I direct bill for health coaching?

A: No. Health coaching programs cannot be billed under chiropractic benefits. This is an additional service that must be paid for out of pocket by the patient. However, some patients may be able to submit the cost under a Health Spending Account (HSA) if their insurance plan allows it. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for details.

Q: Which services are billable under chiropractic benefits?

A: Under most extended health insurance plans, chiropractic benefits cover:

• Initial chiropractic visits

• Chiropractic follow-up visits (30 or 60 minutes)

Not typically covered under chiropractic benefits:

• Custom orthotics

• Medical-grade compression socks

• Custom orthopedic shoes

• Pregnancy braces & supports

• TENS machines

• Personalized health coaching programs

While these additional services are not billed under chiropractic benefits, they may be eligible for coverage under a Health Spending Account (HSA) or under other categories within your plan, such as paramedical services. Patients should review these sections in their insurance policy to determine if they can receive reimbursement for these products.

Q: What company does Dr. Justine Rodrigues use for orthopedic shoes?

A: Dr. Justine Rodrigues uses The Orthotic Group for orthopedic shoes. Patients can browse the catalog before placing an order through Dr. Rodrigues.

Q: Do I need x-rays?

A: If X-rays are needed to confirm a diagnosis, you’ll receive a requisition form during your visit and can have the images taken at any imaging centre in Ontario.

Please note: If your X-ray requisition comes from a chiropractor, you are responsible for covering the cost of having the images read and reported on by a radiologist. These fees typically range from $10 to $50, depending on how many areas are imaged and the complexity of the report.

If you would like your X-rays to be covered by OHIP, you will need to obtain a referral from a medical doctor before the images are taken.

Q: Does Dr. Rodrigues communicate with family doctors and other healthcare practitioners to collaborate on care?

A: Yes. Dr. Rodrigues is happy to communicate with your family doctor or other healthcare practitioners to ensure better collaborative care among the multidisciplinary team you are working with. For example, if you require an ultrasound or MRI, she can write a letter to your family doctor on your behalf. She is also glad to collaborate with naturopaths, dietitians, physiotherapists, and other allied healthcare professionals by writing letters and sharing relevant information to support your care. Letters prepared and sent by Dr. Rodrigues are subject to a $50 fee.

Q: How many visits will I need?

A: It’s difficult to say without first completing a full assessment and understanding your goals. Some patients prefer short-term care to resolve acute pain, while others choose ongoing care to maintain their health. The number of visits is determined on a case-by-case basis and is based on your diagnosis and the treatment plan recommended to support your recovery.

Q: Do you direct bill? Which providers do you direct bill with?

A: Yes. There is direct billing for most of the insurance providers but please contact Synergy Chiropractic to inquire about your insurance company.

Q: What is Synergy Chiropractic’s cancellation policy?

A: Synergy Chiropractic requires at least 24 hours’ notice for appointment changes or cancellations. This allows the clinic to offer your time slot to another patient. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed appointments, may be subject to a cancellation fee.