Osteopathy
Osteopathic manual therapy performed by a non-physician osteopath — not eligible as a CRA medical expense
Is osteopathy CRA eligible in Canada?
No. Osteopathy is not listed on the CRA's eligible medical expenses list, and non-physician osteopaths are not recognized as authorized medical practitioners in any Canadian province or territory for purposes of the Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC). Because osteopathy is not METC eligible, it cannot be reimbursed through an HSA or PHSP.
Non-physician osteopaths (such as those holding a D.O.M.P. credential) are not regulated as medical practitioners in any Canadian province or territory.
What Does Not Qualify
- Osteopathic manual therapy sessions with a non-physician osteopath
- Osteopathic assessments and consultations
- Craniosacral therapy or visceral manipulation performed by an osteopath
- Any service billed as osteopathy, regardless of the condition being treated
Good to Know
- If you are seeking manual therapy for a medical condition, consider CRA-eligible alternatives such as physiotherapy, chiropractic, or massage therapy (where the practitioner is recognized in your province).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is osteopathy CRA eligible?
No. Osteopathy is not listed as an eligible medical expense by the CRA, and non-physician osteopaths are not authorized medical practitioners in any province.
Can I claim osteopathy through my HSA?
No. Because osteopathy is not METC eligible, it cannot be reimbursed through a Health Spending Account.
Source
Based on the CRA's official eligible medical expenses list and authorized medical practitioners list.
This information is sourced from the Canada Revenue Agency's official Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) reference guide (lines 33099 and 33199). This is not tax advice. For the most current rulings, consult the CRA directly or speak with a qualified tax professional.
Based on CRA data last updated 2026-01-20. Page last reviewed 2026-04-01.