辅助设备

What's Covered

Programs vary by province, but common categories include:

• Mobility devices: Wheelchairs (manual and power), walkers, canes, scooters
• Communication devices: Speech-generating devices, communication boards
• Hearing devices: Hearing aids, cochlear implants, FM systems
• Visual aids: Magnifiers, screen readers, white canes
• Respiratory equipment: CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, ventilators
• Orthotics and prosthetics: Braces, artificial limbs, custom footwear
• Daily living aids: Bathroom equipment, hospital beds, lifts
• Diabetic supplies: Insulin pumps, glucose monitors

Province-by-Province Programs

Ontario — Assistive Devices Program (ADP)

One of the most comprehensive programs in Canada. Covers up to 75% of the cost of approved devices. Some devices covered at 100% for people receiving ODSP or Ontario Works.

• Must be an Ontario resident with a valid health card
• Assessed by an authorized assessor (varies by device type)
• Covers 8,000+ device categories
• ODSP recipients may get 100% coverage

Alberta — Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL)

Covers a portion of the cost of basic, medically necessary equipment. Requires a health professional's authorization.

• Client co-payment of 25% on most items (capped at certain amounts)
• No co-payment for AISH recipients
• Covers: mobility, respiratory, prosthetics, orthotics, hearing, speech, diabetic supplies

British Columbia — BC PharmaCare & AT Programs

• PharmaCare covers some medical supplies and devices
• BC Centre for Ability provides assessments and loans
• SET-BC provides assistive technology for students with special needs
• The At Home Program covers medical equipment for children with severe disabilities

Saskatchewan

• Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living (SAIL) program
• Covers wheelchairs, orthotics, prosthetics, hearing aids, respiratory equipment
• Requires prescription from a health care provider

Manitoba

• Manitoba Home Care Equipment and Supplies
• Children's Therapy Initiative covers therapeutic equipment
• Society for Manitobans with Disabilities provides equipment lending

Quebec

• Programme d'appareils suppléant à une déficience physique
• Covers wheelchairs, prosthetics, orthotics, hearing aids, visual aids
• Administered through RAMQ (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec)

Atlantic Provinces

• New Brunswick: Assistive device programs through Social Development
• Nova Scotia: Department of Health programs for assistive devices
• PEI: AccessAbility Supports covers some assistive devices
• Newfoundland: Provincial programs for medical equipment

Federal Programs

• Veterans Affairs: Covers assistive devices for eligible veterans
• Medical Expense Tax Credit: You can claim the cost of assistive devices on your tax return as a medical expense
• DTC: Having the Disability Tax Credit may help offset the cost through tax savings

Tips for Getting Devices Funded

1. Start with your doctor. Most programs require a prescription or referral from a health care provider.
2. Get assessed by an authorized assessor. The type of assessor depends on the device — occupational therapists for mobility devices, audiologists for hearing aids, etc.
3. Check if your provincial disability program covers it. ODSP, AISH, and other income support programs often cover devices at 100%.
4. Look into charitable programs. Organizations like the March of Dimes, Easter Seals, and local service clubs often help with costs.
5. Keep receipts. Even if a program covers part of the cost, you can claim the remainder as a medical expense on your taxes.