The Fraser Health Rapid Access Clinic for Low Back Pain (RAC for LBP) is a Pilot that is running until March 31, 2025.
For Patients

Suffering From Low Back Pain?

The Rapid Access Clinics (RACs) for Low Back Pain help improve the quality, access and appropriateness of care for people with low back pain.

Did you know...

LBP

Low Back Pain is a common condition and not a disease. It is best managed by reducing pain to increase function.

More than 50%

Low Back Pain represents more than 50% of musculoskeletal injuries in the construction industry.

More than 50%

of toxic illicit drug overdose deaths of those employed worked in construction, other trades, and transport industries.

Looking for some self management tips? Visit our dedicated page on how you can begin
self managing your low back pain.
Useful Tips

What to expect?

Your family doctor or nurse practitioner has referred you to the Rapid Access Clinic to help with your low back pain. A physiotherapy clinic will call you to book a free, one-hour appointment.

If you need to cancel your appointment, please contact your physiotherapy office 24 hours before.

If you have any questions, please contact your physiotherapy office.

If English is not your first language, consider bringing a friend or family member who can help you.

If you're also struggling with mental health or substance use, you may want to review these resources.
fh mental health & substance use resources
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How do I get referred?

Your primary care provider (a family doctor or nurse practitioner) will determine if you meet the program criteria. If you meet the criteria, they can refer you to the Rapid Access Clinic for an initial assessment. This may be for low back and/or related leg pain and will help determine the next steps in your care.

Only primary care providers connected to the clinic can make referrals.

Am I eligible for this program?

The pilot program is for patients who:

  • Reside in the Fraser Health Region
  • Are over the age of 18
  • Have had low back pain and/or related leg symptoms, and
  • Have had symptoms for at least 6 weeks but not longer than one year. 

Patients with the following conditions are not eligible for the pilot program:

  • Long-term low back conditions. (Back pain longer than 12 months in a row). 
  • Pain from an accident where the injury is covered under an insurance claim. (Ex. if your injury is from a motor vehicle accident or workplace injury). 
  • Pregnant or within 12 months after childbirth.
  • Conditions that require urgent or emergency care.

​Please speak to your primary care provider, who will confirm if you are eligible for the pilot program. 

What happens after my referral goes in?

After receiving your referral, a physiotherapy office closest to your home address will contact you to book your appointment. You can expect an appointment within four (4)weeks.​

What do I need to do before my appointment?

An online Patient Intake Questionnaire will be emailed to you from the Pilot's Central Intake Office. To make the most of your time with your physiotherapist, please make sure to complete the questionnaire, which will take 20-30 minutes.

If you don't have email access, the questionnaire can be completed at the physiotherapist's office on the day of your appointment. Please make sure to arrive 30 minutes early so you'll have time to complete the questionnaire.

How do I change/cancel my appointment?

If you need to change or cancel your appointment, please contact your physiotherapist’s office 24 hours before. The contact information will be provided to you at the time of your booking.​

What if English is not my first language?

If English is not your first language and you are concerned, please bring a friend or a family member to your appointment who can translate. It is important that you can easily speak with your physiotherapist during your appointment.

How long is the assessment?

The initial assessment will be about one (1) hour long. It is recommended that you arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.

What happens during the assessment?

Your physiotherapist is a regulated, health care professional, trained in low back care. They will: 

  • Ask specific questions about your condition and medical history. 
  • Perform a physical examination, so wear comfortable clothes. 
  • Talk to you about the likely causes of your low back pain. 
  • Work with you to create a personal plan to help you better manage your low back pain. This will improve your ability to move, comfort, and function. Your self-management plan will include advice on staying active and instructions on specific rehab exercises.

Please note:

  • Your physiotherapist will not provide you with hands-on treatment. They will educate you on your condition, which may include suggestions for treatment options to support your self-management plan. 
  • Any suggested treatment options they recommend should be available from community providers.
What if I need surgery or additional investigations?

Surgery or advanced treatment is based on your assessment and your response to initial management. If needed, you will be referred the appropriate care provider for this level of care. This includes a physiotherapist practice lead for the pilot program, a spine surgeon and pain specialist. 

You may also receive a referral for an MRI or CAT scan, as required by your team.

Does Rapid Access Clinic Provide medication?

No medication is prescribed or provided by the clinic's team members.

Will my primary care provider be informed about my assessment?

Your primary care provider will receive a written summary of your assessment, self-management plan, next steps, and follow-up appointments. Your physiotherapist may directly contact your primary care provider if required.

What is the wait time to see an advanced practice provider?

On average, the wait time for the clinic is less than four (4)weeks.

Patient Information

Please complete the brief questionnaire to see if you are eligible

Call 604-451-4870 and leave your number for our Nurse who will schedule your visit. You can also visit our FH site for further information https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Service-At-Location/D/7/metrotown-urgent-and-primary-care-centre

Call 604-451-4870 and leave your number for our Nurse who will schedule your visit. You can also visit our FH site for further information https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Service-At-Location/D/7/metrotown-urgent-and-primary-care-centre

Call 604-451-4870 and leave your number for our Nurse who will schedule your visit. You can also visit our FH site for further information https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Service-At-Location/D/7/metrotown-urgent-and-primary-care-centre

Call 604-451-4870 and leave your number for our Nurse who will schedule your visit. You can also visit our FH site for further information https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Service-At-Location/D/7/metrotown-urgent-and-primary-care-centre

Call 604-451-4870 and leave your number for our Nurse who will schedule your visit. You can also visit our FH site for further information https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Service-At-Location/D/7/metrotown-urgent-and-primary-care-centre

You have successfully completed the RAC for LBP Primary Care Provider Registration and onboarding!

Your RAC for LBP Referral Form will be digitally faxed to you in 1-2 business days. At the end of the Pilot, a Survey will be circulated to you if you have referred one or more patients. Your input is needed to evaluate the need for sustainable funding for an ongoing Rapid Access Clinic for Low Back Pain.

If your patient meets the referral criteria, we recommend referral to help optimize education and self management prior to initiation of opioids, if possible, or consideration for advanced imaging (eg. CT or MRI).

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