A quick, routine way to spot patients who could use psychological support after a motor vehicle collision, and how referral works under Care-First.
November 6, 20262 min read
By Zainab Adesola, BSW, MA, CCC
Why ask
After a collision, psychological reactions are common, and if they aren’t addressed they can slow physical recovery and a return to work. Patients often don’t raise them, especially when the visit is about pain or paperwork. A short, routine check-in helps you catch the patients who need more support.
The three questions
Ask them as routine, for example: “Many people have a reaction after a collision. Can I ask you three quick questions?”
- Since the collision, are you avoiding driving or being a passenger?
- Are memories or worry about it affecting your sleep or your day?
- Is pain, mood or stress keeping you from work or your usual activities?
A yes to any question is a reason to consider a referral. These are check-in questions, not a diagnostic tool.
Signs to watch for
- Avoiding driving or riding as a passenger
- Nightmares or intrusive memories
- Poor sleep since the collision
- Pain or distress that seems out of step with physical progress
- Low mood, irritability or withdrawal
- A slow or stalled return to work
Referral under Care-First
For collisions on or after January 1, 2027, mental health care isn’t part of the 12-week Program of Care. It starts with an initial mental health assessment, which the insurer approves before it happens, and that assessment produces the care and treatment request on Form CF-MH-1. Alberta’s guide lists physicians, along with psychologists and registered clinical social workers, as the practitioners who can do it. If someone else does the assessment, a note from you describing the patient’s symptoms and how they affect function can support the request.
- Mental health care can start at any point, alongside physical care
- Document the symptoms, their onset after the collision and the effect on function
- Encourage the patient to tell their insurer or case manager that they need psychological support
Referring to Bethesda
Referring is simple: one email, no special form, with the patient’s consent. We see clients online across Canada six days a week, until 11 PM on weekdays, and with the patient’s consent we keep you updated on their progress. See for professionals.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical, legal or insurance advice. For advice about your situation, talk to your health care provider, your insurer or a lawyer.
Questions
Quick answers.
Is this a validated screening tool?
No. These are plain-language check-in questions to open a conversation. Use your clinical judgment, and validated measures where appropriate.
What if the collision was before 2027?
Earlier collisions stay under the current system. Psychological treatment may still be covered through the claim, and we can help the patient sort out how.
Can patients see a therapist during the Program of Care?
Yes. Mental health care goes through its own request and can happen at the same time as physical treatment.
Keep Reading
Related articles.
For adjusters & case managers: when to consider a psychological referral after a collisionMental health can make or break a recovery. How to spot the need early, and refer in three steps.
The CF-MH-1 form, explained: how mental health care gets approvedUnder Care-First, psychological care starts with a form called CF-MH-1. What’s on it, how your insurer decides, and how to help it go smoothly.
Supporting an employee after a crash: a guide for HRWhen an employee is hurt in a collision, how you respond in the first weeks shapes their recovery and return to work. Practical steps for HR and managers.