The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) is an initiative by the Ontario Ministry of Health designed to support residents with long-term physical disabilities by subsidizing the cost of personalized assistive equipment and supplies. The program aims to enhance independence and quality of life for individuals facing physical challenges.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify for the ADP, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Ontario.
- Possess a valid Ontario health card.
- Have a disability that necessitates the use of equipment or supplies for six months or longer.
It’s important to note that the program does not consider income as a factor for eligibility. However, individuals receiving assistance from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) or Veterans Affairs Canada for the same equipment are not eligible.
Coverage Details:
The ADP covers up to 75% of the cost for most assistive devices and supplies. In these cases, the supplier bills the program directly, and the client is responsible for the remaining 25% at the time of purchase. For certain supplies, such as those related to ostomies, clients may receive periodic payments throughout the year to assist with ongoing expenses.
Equipment and Supplies Covered:
The program provides funding for a wide range of devices, including but not limited to:
- Mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs, walkers).
- Hearing aids and other auditory devices.
- Communication aids.
- Visual aids.
- Diabetic equipment and supplies.
- Respiratory equipment and supplies.
- Home oxygen therapy.
- Artificial eyes and facial prosthetics.
- Custom orthotic braces, compression garments, and lymphedema pumps.
- Prosthetic breasts or limbs.
- Enteral-feeding pumps and ostomy supplies.
A comprehensive list of covered items is available on the ADP’s official website.
Application Process:
To apply for funding, individuals typically need to undergo an assessment by a qualified health care professional who can prescribe the appropriate equipment. The prescribed devices must then be purchased from vendors authorized by the ADP. Specific application forms and detailed procedures are provided for each category of equipment.
Additional Support:
For those unable to afford their portion of the equipment costs, several charitable organizations offer financial assistance, including:
- Easter Seals Ontario.
- March of Dimes Canada.
- The War Amps.
- Kiwanis Clubs.
- Lions Clubs.
These organizations can provide additional support to ensure individuals receive the necessary assistive devices.
For more detailed information, including specific eligibility criteria and application forms, please visit the official ADP website.