What happens after you report a collision under Care-First

First, which system applies?

The date of the collision decides. If you’re injured in a collision on or after January 1, 2027, your claim is handled under Care-First. Collisions before then stay in the court-based system, and a claim never moves from one system to the other.

Step 1: Report the collision to your insurer

Under Care-First, people injured in a collision get their benefits through their own auto insurer, whoever caused it. Fault still matters for things like premiums, so you still report the collision to your insurer, and tell them you were hurt. Do it as soon as you can. It helps to have these ready:

• Your policy details
• The date, time and place of the collision
• Your injuries, and any care you’ve had so far
• Your work situation, if your injuries affect it

Step 2: Your insurer explains your benefits

Your insurer confirms what you’re eligible for and explains your benefits and next steps. A case manager is usually your main point of contact for the claim. Their role is to coordinate and fund approved care, and to communicate decisions clearly and on time.

Step 3: Your first assessment

A health care practitioner, such as a physician, nurse practitioner, physiotherapist or chiropractor, assesses your physical injuries. Common injuries, like neck, back and shoulder injuries and concussion, can be treated through a pre-approved Program of Care for up to the first 12 weeks.

Step 4: Mental health care, when you need it

Mental health isn’t part of the Program of Care, so it goes through a care and treatment request. Alberta’s guide says the insurer approves the initial mental health assessment before it happens, and that a physician, psychologist or registered clinical social worker does it. The assessment then leads to a treatment plan on a form called CF-MH-1, which goes to your insurer for approval. See the CF-MH-1 form, explained.

You don’t have to wait for physical care to end. Mental health care can start alongside it.

Step 5: Recovery, reviews & disagreements

As you recover, your practitioners share progress with your insurer, and your care plan can be reviewed and adjusted if recovery stalls. If you disagree with a decision about your benefits, ask your insurer to explain it. Care-First has its own dispute resolution process, so most disagreements are settled without going to court.

How Bethesda helps

If you’re struggling after a collision, start with a free 15-minute call. We’ll talk about what’s happening, explain how mental health care fits your claim, and help you take the next step with your insurer.

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.