Policy
The WSIB pays all reasonable expenses incurred when, on the direction or approval of the WSIB, a worker, or another person designated by the WSIB, must travel in relation to a claim.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to outline when the WSIB may pay for claim-related travel expenses.
Guidelines
The WSIB does not reimburse travel costs incurred by a worker while conducting routine job search activities; however, it reimburses the worker for transportation and related expenses incurred while attending WSIB-sponsored training-on-the-job programs.
For claims not yet allowed the WSIB must pre-authorize attendance at health care appointments for special clinical investigations or examinations. If the claim is subsequently not allowed, out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel, accommodation, and meals, will be reimbursed as an administrative cost to the WSIB. For information on reimbursement of lost wages while attending health care appointments, see 17-01-05, Wage Loss for Health Care Appointment.
Practicality, expedience, and clinical necessity are considered when determining the mode of transportation. The WSIB may consult with WSIB clinical staff regarding the nature and sufficiency of travel arrangements.
Transportation expenses are paid based on the most direct route.
The WSIB approves payment of travel expenses when a change of health professional is allowed.
Transportation
Taxis and specialized transport
The WSIB pays taxi fares/fees incurred by persons with impairments travelling by specialized transportation when the worker is involved in a medical or return-to-work (RTW) assessment or plan:
- if the worker does not have a vehicle, or has an impairment that prevents travel by public transit, or
-
when a prevailing non-work-related medical condition requires this means of transportation, and travel is essential to the medical or RTW assessment or plan established for the work-related impairment.
Public transportation
Use of public transportation is fully reimbursed.
While attending an established clinical program such as physiotherapy, the worker is paid for public transportation upon verification of treatment dates.
If public transportation is available but an alternate mode is chosen, the equivalent of public transportation costs is paid.
Mileage
When public transportation is not available and a personal vehicle is used, payment is made at the approved mileage rate. For the current rate, see 18-01-05, Table of Rates.
Parking
When the use of a personal vehicle is approved, actual parking fees are reimbursed.
Return to permanent residence
When a worker returns to a permanent residence, having lived and worked (and was injured) away from that residence, any additional travelling expenses incurred due to the nature of the injury is reimbursed to the party bearing the expense.
The WSIB pays the worker’s hospitalization fees while attending a WSIB-approved program, travelling expenses, usually for one trip home each month. It also considers requests for additional trips home having regard for circumstances such as maintaining family ties, humanitarian and compassionate reasons, urgent family matters, etc.
Family member
If a worker is unable to travel due to the work-related medical condition, payment of travel and related expenses is extended to enable one family member to visit the worker. Consideration for payment is according to the same criteria used for a worker returning to their residence.
Travel expenses are paid when a family member is required to travel to a treatment centre to receive instruction in the care and treatment of the worker’s condition.
Escort
Travel expenses for an escort are paid when there is a clinical necessity, or for compassionate or practical reasons, see 17-01-08, Escorts.
Accommodation
When required to lodge away from home while keeping an appointment or participating in a program authorized by the WSIB, accommodation expenses (hotel, or room and board) are paid at approved rates.
Meal
Meal allowances are paid at approved rates if workers are required by the WSIB to lodge away from home, attend scheduled appointments, out-patient health care programs, etc. For the current meal allowance rates, see 18-01-05, Table of Rates.
Application date
This policy applies to all expenses incurred on or after March 1, 2021, for all accidents.
Document History
This document replaces 17-01-09 dated February 15, 2013.
This document was previously published as:
17-01-09 dated November 3, 2008
17-01-09 dated October 12, 2004
17-01-09 dated February 20, 2004
17-01-09 dated April 6, 2001
06-01-03 dated September 30, 1992.
References
Legislative Authority
Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997, as amended
Section 33
Workers' Compensation Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended
Section 50
Minute
Administrative
#16, March 24, 2021, Page 586