Is it appropriate, and when?

The Claims Submission and Payment Procedures section of the Physician’s Manual states: 

“Part I — Billing and Provision of Services

4. Physicians should exercise care when billing multiple agencies (e.g. Manitoba Health and another agency such as an insurance company, or the Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba) for multiple services provided during the same visit. Generally two agencies may not be billed for the same service claim.”

There may be situations where the physician provides two distinct services during the visit, and it is appropriate to bill two agencies. 

For example:
Scenario: a WCB patient regularly visits for opioid management for chronic pain in conjunction with a WCB claim. During the latest visit, the patient also complains of stomach pain and is assessed for possible diverticulitis.

In this scenario, it is reasonable for the physician to address the new complaint, rather than require the patient to make another appointment for a few days or weeks later. The physician would address both complaints in the same visit and then bill both Manitoba Health and the WCB (e.g. tariff 8529 & 3024).

If the physician is uncertain, they may wish to contact Manitoba Health or Doctors Manitoba to obtain billing advice before submitting such a claim.