Why Look for a Private Sports Doctor Without RAMQ?
In Quebec, the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) funds certain health services, but specialized sports medicine is largely uncovered. Wait times to see a hospital- or CLSC-affiliated physician for a musculoskeletal issue routinely stretch into several months, and access in the public system to a physician formally trained in sports medicine remains limited. That is why many patients — recreational athletes, weekend warriors, or simply active individuals — choose to see a sports doctor in a private practice, without presenting a RAMQ card at every visit.
Private practice gives you direct access to a specialized physician, no prior referral required, a much shorter wait, and a complete evaluation that may include same-visit musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging when indicated.
What RAMQ Covers (and Does Not Cover) in Sports Medicine
RAMQ covers the basic medical visit, but excludes a number of services closely tied to specialized sports medicine:
- Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound — generally not covered when performed in a specialist's private office.
- Ultrasound-guided injections (cortisone, viscosupplementation, PRP) — fees for these specialized procedures are not reimbursed by RAMQ.
- Pre-participation or return-to-sport evaluations — typically considered outside the public mandate.
- Tight follow-up cadence to adjust a rehabilitation plan — the schedule is driven by your needs, not by public-system capacity.
So even with a valid RAMQ card, your private sports medicine visits remain out of pocket — similar to physiotherapy or chiropractic care.
How a Private Sports Medicine Visit Works
A first consultation typically includes:
- A targeted history (injury timeline, sport mechanics, return-to-play goals).
- A hierarchized physical examination of the musculoskeletal system (joint testing, palpation, functional assessment).
- Same-visit musculoskeletal ultrasound when indicated — an important diagnostic advantage.
- A personalized treatment plan that may include ultrasound-guided injections, physiotherapy referral, a home- or clinic-based rehabilitation program, or simple self-management advice.
No referral from another physician is required to book. You can contact us directly and secure an appointment within days — sometimes same-day depending on availability.
Fees and Reimbursement by Private Insurance
Private sports medicine consultations are not covered by RAMQ. Fees vary by evaluation type and any procedures performed. For current pricing on consultations, injections, and PRP procedures, see our full fee page:
Private practice — not covered by RAMQ. Check your private insurance coverage — most supplementary plans reimburse a portion of consultation and injection fees on submission of an official receipt.
Our Two Clinics: Saint-Sauveur and Laval
Our two sports medicine clinics are conveniently located and maintain the same standard of diagnostic quality and patient care.
Clinique Sport Santé Laurentides — Saint-Sauveur
Located at 26 avenue Lafleur Sud in Saint-Sauveur, Clinique Sport Santé Laurentides serves patients from the Laurentians, Greater Montreal, and the Mont-Tremblant region. See the clinic page →
Clinique de médecine sportive de l'Avenir — Laval
Located at 1545 boulevard de l'Avenir #300 in Laval, this clinic serves patients from Laval, Montreal, the North Shore, and northern suburbs. See the clinic page →
How to Book an Appointment
Booking is done online through our secure scheduling platform. You can choose the clinic, visit type, and time that works for you:
Book a sports medicine appointment →
For patients who prefer to book directly through our Pomelo Health system: qc.pomelo.health/cliniquesportsante.
Services Available in Private Practice
Private sports medicine covers a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Low Back Pain in Athletes: Complete Guide
- Ankle Sprain: Complete Guide
- ACL Tear: Complete Guide
- Shoulder Tendinopathy: Complete Guide
- Meniscal Tear: Complete Guide
- All our sports medicine services →
FAQ — Private Sports Medicine Without RAMQ
What is private practice without a RAMQ card?
Private practice without a RAMQ card means the medical visit is not billed to RAMQ. You pay the clinic fees directly. In return, the physician can offer a focused service, short wait times, and specialized diagnostic equipment (musculoskeletal ultrasound, for example) that is generally not available in the public system for sports medicine.
Do I need a medical referral to book?
No. In a private sports medicine practice, no medical referral is needed to book an appointment. You can contact us directly for an evaluation. If your condition requires consultation with another specialist (orthopedic surgeon, neurologist, rheumatologist), we will refer you at the appropriate time.
Does private insurance reimburse these consultations?
Most supplementary insurance plans reimburse a portion of sports medicine consultation and injection fees on submission of an official receipt. Check your coverage details (eligible annual expenses, reimbursement percentage, referral requirements). Receipts are typically issued by email after your visit or handed to you in person.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most new patients secure an appointment within a week, sometimes same-day depending on availability. Acute musculoskeletal emergencies (severe sprain, suspected fracture, acute concussion) are usually seen quickly. For follow-up or non-urgent consultations, the typical wait is 2 to 5 business days.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information presented does not replace an individual professional evaluation. Consult a qualified physician for any health concern.