Funding Sources for Assistive Devices
1. Assistive Devices Program (ADP) β Ontario Ministry of Health
The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) helps Ontario residents with long-term physical disabilities access the personalized equipment they need to live more independently. ADP provides funding support for over 8,000 types of devices across a wide range of categories, including:
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Wheelchairs, walkers, and mobility aids
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Prosthetic limbs and orthotic braces
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Respiratory equipment (e.g., oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines)
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Hearing aids and communication devices
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Feeding supplies and diabetic equipment
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Visual aids and pressure garments
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Insulin pumps and supplies for children
Eligibility:
To qualify, you must:
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Be an Ontario resident
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Hold a valid Ontario Health Card
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Have a physical disability lasting 6 months or longer
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Not require the device solely for work, school, or sports
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Meet device-specific eligibility criteria
Note: ADP does not fund equipment covered by WSIB or Veterans Affairs Canada (Group A pensioners).
Funding Details:
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Up to 75% coverage for most equipment like mobility aids and prosthetics
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Fixed contributions for items like hearing aids
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Full coverage (100%) for home oxygen equipment for seniors and qualifying individuals on social assistance
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For items like ostomy supplies or breast prostheses, a grant is paid directly to the individual
Process:
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A doctor or specialist provides a diagnosis.
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A registered ADP authorizer (e.g., therapist or health professional) prescribes the device.
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Equipment must be purchased from an ADP-registered vendor.
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You pay your portion, and the vendor bills ADP for the rest.
Additional Funding Support:
If you’re unable to cover your share of the cost, funding may be available from:
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March of Dimes
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Easter Seals
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Kiwanis or Lions Clubs
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Social Assistance (ODSP, OW)
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Insurance or private donors
For more information:
Assistive Devices Program β Ministry of Health
7th Floor, 5700 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON M2M 4K5
π 416-327-8804 | π Toll-free: 1-800-268-6021
π Fax: 416-327-8192
π§ Email: adp@ontario.ca
π ADP Website
2. March of Dimes Canada
March of Dimes Canada is a national non-profit organization that supports people with physical disabilities through funding, advocacy, and rehabilitation programs. Their goal is to promote independence and full community participation.
Programs May Include:
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Funding support for mobility aids and assistive devices
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Home modification assistance
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Employment services and peer support
π Contact us to discuss your eligibility and obtain an estimate.
π March of Dimes Canada Website
3. Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) provides financial assistance and benefits to eligible individuals with disabilities.
Benefits Include:
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Monthly income support for essential living expenses
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Coverage for prescription drugs, dental, and vision care
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Employment supports
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Assistance with batteries and repairs for:
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Wheelchairs (manual or power)
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Scooters
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Walkers
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Lifting devices
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Hearing aids and alerting systems
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Eligibility:
You may qualify if:
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You have a verified disability
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You, your spouse, or dependent children require mobility or hearing-related support
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You have no access to other funding sources (e.g., ADP)
How to Access Benefits:
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Contact your local ODSP office for approval before making purchases or repairs
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Some items for children over 18 may be funded through Ontario Works discretionary benefits
π Learn more about ODSP benefits
4. Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides temporary health coverage to:
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Refugee claimants
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Resettled refugees (protected persons)
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Certain other ineligible groups for provincial health insurance
Covered Services Include:
Basic Coverage:
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Hospital care (in-patient/out-patient)
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Medical services (physicians, RNs, diagnostics)
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Pre- and post-natal care
Supplemental Coverage:
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Limited dental and vision care
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Home and long-term care
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Allied health services (OT, PT, SLP, psychologists)
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Assistive devices and medical supplies, including:
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Mobility aids
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Orthopedic and prosthetic equipment
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Hearing aids
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Incontinence and diabetic supplies
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Oxygen equipment
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Prescription Drug Coverage:
Covers most medications listed under provincial public drug plans.
Immigration Medical Exam (IME):
IFHP covers one IME and related tests as required under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
Important Notes:
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Coverage has limitations and maximum dollar amounts.
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Not valid if covered under private insurance.
π View IFHP Benefits and Eligibility