What Is the DTPR?
The Diagnostic and Treatment Protocols Regulation (DTPR) was created by the Alberta government to guide the care of people with minor injuries after an accident. These typically include:
Sprains and strains
Minor soft-tissue injuries
Under the DTPR, these injuries are treated through a structured treatment plan and a set number of visits that can be billed directly to your auto insurer.
When a Claim Is “Outside DTPR”
An injury is considered outside DTPR when it falls beyond the “minor injury” category or when recovery does not occur within the DTPR timeframe. This may include:
Fractures or dislocations
Situations where you’ve reached the maximum number of in-protocol treatments (10 visits for WAD 1 or 21 visits for WAD 2) and still require ongoing care
Any condition that doesn’t resolve within the DTPR guidelines (90 days after the date of the accident)
Once your claim is outside the DTPR, your coverage process changes.
How Coverage Works Outside DTPR
Use Private or Group Benefits First: Your private or employer benefits plan (like a health spending account or extended health plan) must be billed first.
Then Section B Auto Insurance Applies: After private insurance is used, your auto insurance (known as Section B) can cover remaining eligible costs for treatment and rehabilitation — up to the $50,000 limit set by Alberta law.
Billing May Change: Some insurers no longer allow direct billing for Outside DTPR claims. You may need to pay upfront and submit receipts for reimbursement.
What This Means for You
Outside the DTPR, you are still entitled to receive treatment and support for your injuries — your coverage process simply shifts from protocol-based to Section B coverage.
If you’re unsure whether your injury is covered under or outside the DTPR, contact your insurance adjuster or give us a call for guidance. Your healthcare team at Flex Physio & Wellness will help guide you through the process and provide any documents your insurer requires.
📞 Contact us today to book your MVA assessment and start your recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an MVA claim "outside DTPR"?
Injuries beyond the minor category (like fractures or WAD 3–4), reaching the in-protocol visit maximum (10 for WAD 1, 21 for WAD 2) while still needing care, or symptoms not resolving within 90 days of the accident.
Who pays for treatment outside DTPR?
Your private or employer benefits plan is billed first. After that, Section B auto insurance covers remaining eligible treatment and rehabilitation costs, up to the $50,000 limit set by Alberta law.
Can I still direct bill outside DTPR?
Some insurers no longer allow direct billing for out-of-protocol claims, so you may need to pay upfront and submit receipts for reimbursement. Our team can help you understand what your insurer requires.