FAQs for Patients

Who is eligible for rTMS therapy?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Have a primary diagnosis of depression (unipolar or bipolar) with or without a co-morbidity of anxiety or have a history of poor response to medications (failed at least one medication trial) or are intolerant of medications

  • Those diagnosed with bipolar disorder need to be on a mood stabilizer

  • Diagnosed with PTSD and a co-morbidity of depression

  • Have no implanted ferromagnetic devices, pacemaker or cochlear implants

  • Have no metal in your head or eyes (it is okay to have metal in your teeth)

  • Have no serious head injury in the past year

  • Have no history of seizures or epilepsy

How do I get rTMS treatment at Riverview Medical Services Inc.?

You must have a referral from your family doctor, psychiatrist or other health care professionals, including psychologists and nurse therapists.

What does the treatment cost?

rTMS is not covered under Alberta Health Care. Therefore, you are required to pay for your course of treatment. The cost of rTMS therapy depends of the type of rTMS used. Credit cards are accepted.

Can I claim the cost of treatment as a medical expense?

rTMS therapy is a prescribed medical treatment and may be eligible as a medical expense on your income tax return or under your employee benefits plan. You will be provided with a receipt for your rTMS treatments.

Will my insurance pay for this treatment?

This treatment may be covered by your policy however, the only way to know for sure is to contact your insurer directly and obtain preapproval.

Will you direct bill my medical insurance?

No, it will be your responsibility to be reimbursed by your insurance company.

Can I get a refund for my treatments if it does not work?

Unfortunately we cannot provide a refund for a service that has been delivered. While studies show that many people respond to rTMS therapy, there is no guarantee that it will work for you. There may be some very limited circumstances in which our medical team may decide that you are no longer a candidate for further treatments, in which case you will be refunded for any unused paid treatments.