--- # Cross-published from The Medfair Journal. Keep canonicalURL pointing # at the original so search engines credit the right page. title: "Ontario Assistive Device Funding Guide: Prosthetics, Orthotics, Hearing Aids and Mobility Equipment" description: "Ontario assistive device funding is not a single-payer system. ADP may cover part of the cost, social assistance, federal benefits or charities may cover another part, and limits still leave a patient balance. Here is how to coordinate them before you order." pubDate: 2026-09-19T23:28:29.016Z subtitle: "How funding actually works for prosthetics, orthotics, hearing aids and mobility equipment in Ontario — what ADP pays, what it does not, and which programs cover the rest." author: "Aalim Rattansi" category: "Health Policy" coverImage: "https://mixyzmmqjujhhiolapks.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/blog-media/covers/4dff2c17-a718-420b-b2da-51da9fd969ba/1789858639524.png" canonicalURL: "https://medfair.ca/journal/how-ontario-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding" originalSource: "The Medfair Journal" --- *This article was first published on [The Medfair Journal](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-ontario-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding).* A prosthetic limb, orthotic brace, hearing aid or wheelchair can make everyday life safer and more independent. Paying for that device, however, can involve several different programs. Ontario assistive device funding is not a single-payer system. The provincial Assistive Devices Program may cover part of the cost, while social assistance, federal benefits or charitable organizations may cover another portion. Limits and exclusions can still leave a patient balance. This guide explains the main funding options for Ontario residents, especially people with limited income or no private insurance. > **Current as of September 19, 2026.** Funding rules and amounts can change. Confirm eligibility and obtain approval before ordering a device. ## Key takeaways - **ADP is the starting point, not the whole answer.** The Assistive Devices Program funds long-term equipment for Ontario residents with a valid health card and a disability expected to last six months or more. It is not income-tested. - **"75% covered" is not the same as "you pay 25%."** ADP pays a share of an *approved* price or up to a maximum, so upgrades, assessment fees, batteries, repairs and non-approved components can remain the patient's responsibility. - **Social assistance can close the gap.** Ontario Works, ODSP and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities recipients may receive up to 100% of the ADP-approved amount, plus help with some batteries and repairs ADP will not fund. - **Another payer may come first.** WSIB, Veterans Affairs Canada, Non-Insured Health Benefits and the Interim Federal Health Program are checked before ADP, not after. - **Apply before you buy.** ADP and most charitable funders will not reimburse a device that was ordered before assessment and approval. **Run your clinic on Medfair.** [Sign up](https://medfair.ca/register) · [Schedule a Demo](https://medfair.ca/contact) ## How does the Ontario Assistive Devices Program work? The [Ontario Assistive Devices Program](https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program), commonly called ADP, is the main provincial funding program for long-term assistive equipment. A person generally needs to: - Be an Ontario resident. - Hold a valid Ontario health card. - Require the device because of a disability lasting at least six months. - Meet the clinical criteria for the device category. ADP is not income-tested. Eligibility is based on residency and medical need, not household income. Most applications require an assessment by an ADP-registered health professional and purchase from an ADP-registered vendor. The authorizer confirms the person's eligibility and recommends equipment suited to basic functional needs. > **Apply before buying.** ADP and many secondary funders will not reimburse equipment ordered before assessment or approval. ## How much does ADP cover in Ontario? ADP uses different funding models: - **Approved price:** ADP commonly pays 75% and the patient pays 25%. - **Maximum contribution:** ADP pays toward the eligible cost up to a set ceiling. - **Grant:** ADP pays a fixed grant directly to the eligible person for certain supplies. "75% covered" does not always mean the patient pays only 25% of the invoice. The patient may also owe amounts above an ADP maximum, optional upgrades, assessment fees, batteries, repairs or non-approved components. Before proceeding, request an itemized estimate showing: - The total device price. - The ADP-approved amount. - The ADP contribution. - The patient contribution. - Non-funded components and services. - Warranty, battery and repair costs. ## Can Ontario Works or ODSP cover the remaining cost? People receiving **Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Program income support, or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities** may receive up to 100% of the ADP-approved price or maximum. This does not guarantee that the full retail invoice will be covered. Costs above a maximum and optional features may remain the patient's responsibility. [Ontario Works health benefits](https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-works-policy-directives/72-health-benefits) include the ADP consumer contribution and, where no other funding exists, eligible assessment costs. Batteries and necessary mobility-device repairs may also be covered. Some additional devices can be considered as discretionary benefits, but local approval and amounts vary. [ODSP health and disability benefits](https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program-health-and-disability-benefits) may help with eligible ADP assessment fees, hearing aids and alerting systems, hearing-device batteries and repairs, and mobility-device batteries and repairs. Approval should be obtained before spending money. ODSP's [Mandatory Special Necessities benefit](https://www.ontario.ca/document/odsp-schedule-benefits-mandatory-special-necessities) may also cover listed prosthetic supplies, including certain liners, sleeves, socks and shrinkers, as well as eligible braces, casts and splints not funded elsewhere. ## Ontario prosthetic limb funding ADP helps eligible Ontario residents pay for conventional upper- and lower-limb prostheses when limb absence results from birth, illness or a non-work-related injury. Under the current [prosthetic-limb funding rules](https://www.ontario.ca/page/breast-prostheses-and-artificial-limbs): - Conventional limb prostheses are generally funded at 75% of the ADP-set price. - Externally powered upper-limb prostheses can receive 100% coverage up to a maximum. - Social-assistance recipients may receive up to 100% of the ADP-approved amount. ADP generally does not cover spare prostheses, cosmetic-only devices, devices used only for sports, repairs, batteries or interface products. The application must go through an ADP-registered amputee team or clinic before the limb is ordered. ### Other prosthetic funding programs [The War Amps Child Amputee Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/child-amputees/) serves Canadian children under 18. CHAMP may pay the balance on an everyday artificial limb after provincial and private coverage. It also helps with adjustments and repairs and may fully fund recreational limbs. Pre-authorization is required. [The War Amps Adult Amputee Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/adult-amputees/) provides financial assistance to enrolled Canadian amputees aged 18 and older after available provincial, private or workplace coverage has been pursued. Northern Ontario residents travelling at least 100 kilometres one way for eligible fittings, adjustments or repairs may qualify for the [Northern Health Travel Grant](https://www.ontario.ca/page/northern-health-travel-grant-program). ## Ontario orthotic device funding ADP generally pays 75% of the approved cost of eligible custom arm, leg, spinal and cranial braces. Eligible social-assistance recipients may receive 100% of the approved amount. The term "orthotics" covers a broad range of products, but not every product is eligible. Ontario's [orthotic-brace funding guide](https://www.ontario.ca/page/garments-pumps-and-braces) excludes certain foot orthoses, shoes and shoe modifications. Devices required for less than six months, used only at night or needed only for work, school or sport may also be excluded. Repairs and backup orthoses are generally not funded. When ADP does not apply, possible resources include: - ODSP coverage for certain medically necessary braces, casts or splints not covered elsewhere. - Ontario Works discretionary benefits for some devices that support or replace a bodily function. - [Easter Seals Ontario](https://services.easterseals.org/equipment-funding/) for eligible children and youth. - [Muscular Dystrophy Canada](https://muscle.ca/support-services/how-we-help/equipment-program/) for registered clients with eligible neuromuscular conditions. ## Ontario hearing aid funding ADP provides hearing-aid funding for Ontario residents with long-term hearing loss. Under the current [hearing-device benefit](https://www.ontario.ca/page/hearing-devices), ADP pays 75% of the eligible cost up to a maximum contribution of $500 per side. Eligible FM systems are funded at 75% up to a maximum of $1,350. Because hearing aids frequently cost more than the ADP maximum, a patient may still face a substantial balance. Other hearing-aid funding options may include: - Ontario Works or ODSP. - Non-Insured Health Benefits for eligible First Nations and Inuit clients. - Interim Federal Health Program coverage for eligible refugees and protected persons. - Veterans Affairs Canada. - WSIB for hearing loss connected to an accepted workplace claim. - A local [Lions Club](https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/footer/contact-us), depending on available community funding. Ask the hearing clinic to itemize the device price, dispensing fees, service plan, warranty, batteries and future repair costs. ## Ontario wheelchair and mobility device funding ADP mobility funding includes eligible: - Manual and power wheelchairs. - Power scooters and power add-ons. - Seating and positioning systems. - Wheeled walkers for adults. - Forearm crutches. - Certain pediatric walkers, standers and strollers. ADP generally pays 75% of the approved price. Ontario Works, ODSP and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities recipients may receive 100% of the approved price. An ADP-registered occupational therapist or physiotherapist must assess the applicant. See Ontario's [mobility-aid funding guide](https://www.ontario.ca/page/mobility-aids). Common exclusions include batteries, repairs, ramps, wheelchair lifts, standard canes, transport chairs, bathing equipment, hospital beds and most rentals. ### Other mobility equipment resources - Ontario Works and ODSP may cover approved batteries and repairs when another payer is unavailable. - [Easter Seals Ontario](https://services.easterseals.org/equipment-funding/) helps registered Ontario children and youth under 19 whose permanent physical disability restricts independent mobility. - The March of Dimes Canada [Home and Vehicle Modification Program](https://www.marchofdimes.ca/en-ca/programs/am/hvmp) may fund essential ramps, lifts, transfer equipment or other adaptations for eligible people in financial need. - [ALS Canada's Ontario Equipment Program](https://als.ca/get-support/get-equipment/) loans basic equipment to registered Ontario clients after a professional assessment. - [Muscular Dystrophy Canada's Equipment Program](https://muscle.ca/support-services/how-we-help/equipment-program/) may help eligible registered clients with mobility equipment, repairs or modifications. - [Ontario Health atHome](https://www.ontario.ca/page/home-community-care) may provide treatment equipment and supplies connected to an approved home-care, post-hospital or palliative-care plan. ## Funding for specific populations ### First Nations and Inuit The federal [Non-Insured Health Benefits program](https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1585320116553/1585320137871) includes hearing equipment, limb and body orthotics, prosthetics and mobility equipment for eligible registered First Nations people, recognized Inuit and certain young children of eligible parents. Prior approval and coordination with provincial or private coverage may be required. Some communities administer benefits directly, so confirm the applicable pathway before ordering. ### Refugees and protected persons The [Interim Federal Health Program](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/help-within-canada/health-care/interim-federal-health-program/coverage-summary.html) may cover eligible prosthetics, orthopaedic equipment, mobility aids and hearing aids. As of May 1, 2026, IFHP generally pays 70% of eligible supplemental-benefit costs, with a 30% patient co-payment. Coverage limits apply, and the provider must be registered with IFHP. ### Veterans [Veterans Affairs Canada treatment benefits](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/programs-choice) include hearing services, prostheses, orthoses, aids for daily living, wheelchairs and other special equipment. Eligibility and coordination with provincial programs depend on the veteran's benefit category, so authorization should be confirmed first. ### People injured at work For an accepted work-related injury or illness, [WSIB may authorize prescribed health-care equipment and supplies](https://www.wsib.ca/en/operational-policy-manual/health-care-equipment-and-supplies). A preferred supplier may be required. Because ADP generally does not fund the same device when WSIB coverage is available, investigate the workplace claim early. ## How to apply for assistive device funding A coordinated application reduces delays and unexpected costs: 1. **Identify the primary payer.** Check WSIB, Veterans Affairs, NIHB or IFHP eligibility before starting an ADP claim. 2. **Arrange the clinical assessment.** Use an ADP-registered authorizer for the relevant device category. 3. **Choose an eligible vendor.** Confirm the vendor is registered for the device being prescribed. 4. **Get an itemized quote.** Separate the government contribution, patient portion and non-funded items. 5. **Activate social-assistance benefits.** Confirm Ontario Works, ODSP or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities status before final approval. 6. **Apply to secondary funders.** Charities usually require public and private funding to be pursued first, and many do not reimburse prior purchases. 7. **Keep written records.** Save prescriptions, assessments, quotes, approvals and denials. 8. **Order only when funding is confirmed.** Make sure the patient knows the exact balance before fabrication or delivery. For clinics, keeping the assessment, patient record, ADP application, device project and payer portions connected makes this process easier to follow. [Medfair](https://medfair.ca/features) supports Ontario clinics with ADP paperwork and claim tracking from draft through approval, invoicing and payment—reducing administrative handoffs for staff and patients. We wrote about what that looks like day to day in [Why Medfair Is Right for Your Clinic](https://medfair.ca/journal/why-medfair-is-right-for-your-clinic). **Run your clinic on Medfair.** [Sign up](https://medfair.ca/register) · [Schedule a Demo](https://medfair.ca/contact) ## Frequently asked questions about Ontario assistive device funding ### Does OHIP cover wheelchairs or hearing aids? OHIP does not generally pay the retail cost directly. Eligible residents normally access provincial funding through ADP, which has its own clinical criteria, registered authorizers and approved vendors. ### Does ADP cover 100% of an assistive device? Usually not. Many devices are funded at 75% of an approved price or up to a maximum. Eligible Ontario Works, ODSP and Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities recipients may receive 100% of the approved amount, but upgrades or costs above a maximum may remain unpaid. ### How much does ADP pay for hearing aids in Ontario? ADP pays 75% of the eligible cost up to a maximum contribution of $500 per hearing aid, and 75% up to $1,350 for an eligible FM system. Because hearing aids often cost more than the maximum, a balance usually remains unless Ontario Works, ODSP or another payer covers it. ### Can I buy the device first and apply afterward? Usually no. ADP and many charities require assessment and approval before the device is ordered or purchased. ### Does ADP pay for repairs and batteries? ADP generally does not cover repairs or batteries. Ontario Works, ODSP, Veterans Affairs, WSIB or a diagnosis-specific equipment program may help, depending on eligibility. ### Where can I find local funding help? Hospital and rehabilitation social workers may know about local foundations or emergency funds. [211 Ontario](https://211ontario.ca/) can search for current medical-equipment and financial-assistance programs by postal code. Call 2-1-1 for navigation in more than 150 languages. ## The key is to coordinate funding before purchase Ontario offers meaningful support for prosthetics, orthotics, hearing aids and mobility equipment, but funding can come from several programs with different rules. The safest approach is to establish the primary payer, complete the required assessment, document the full cost and apply for secondary funding before ordering. A well-coordinated process can prevent missed benefits and reduce the amount a patient must pay out of pocket. --- ## Sources - [Assistive Devices Program](https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program) - [Breast prostheses and artificial limbs](https://www.ontario.ca/page/breast-prostheses-and-artificial-limbs) - [Garments, pumps and braces](https://www.ontario.ca/page/garments-pumps-and-braces) - [Hearing devices](https://www.ontario.ca/page/hearing-devices) - [Mobility aids](https://www.ontario.ca/page/mobility-aids) - [Ontario Works policy directive 7.2: Health benefits](https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-works-policy-directives/72-health-benefits) - [ODSP health and disability benefits](https://www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-disability-support-program-health-and-disability-benefits) - [ODSP Mandatory Special Necessities benefit](https://www.ontario.ca/document/odsp-schedule-benefits-mandatory-special-necessities) - [Northern Health Travel Grant](https://www.ontario.ca/page/northern-health-travel-grant-program) - [Non-Insured Health Benefits for First Nations and Inuit](https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1585320116553/1585320137871) - [Interim Federal Health Program coverage summary](https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/refugees/help-within-canada/health-care/interim-federal-health-program/coverage-summary.html) - [Veterans Affairs Canada treatment benefits](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/programs-choice) - [WSIB health care equipment and supplies policy](https://www.wsib.ca/en/operational-policy-manual/health-care-equipment-and-supplies)