---
# Cross-published from The Medfair Journal. Keep canonicalURL pointing
# at the original so search engines credit the right page.
title: "Saskatchewan Assistive Device Funding Guide: SAIL, Prosthetics, Orthotics, Hearing Aids and Mobility Equipment"
description: "How SAIL (Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living) funds prosthetics, orthotics, wheelchairs and CPAP, what it leaves out, and who pays for hearing aids."
pubDate: 2026-10-12T15:45:32.181Z
subtitle: "How Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living works, what each SAIL program covers, and which other programs help pay for prosthetics, orthotics, hearing aids and mobility equipment."
author: "Aalim Rattansi"
category: "Health Policy"
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canonicalURL: "https://medfair.ca/journal/how-saskatchewan-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding"
originalSource: "The Medfair Journal"
---

*This article was first published on [The Medfair Journal](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-saskatchewan-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding).*

A prosthetic limb, brace, wheelchair or CPAP machine can decide whether someone manages safely at home. In Saskatchewan, most of that equipment runs through one provincial program: SAIL.

Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living is broader than most people expect. It loans wheelchairs and hospital beds, pays for artificial limbs and braces, lends CPAP machines and funds home oxygen. It also has firm limits. Adult hearing aids are not part of SAIL, some devices are cost-shared, and the patient's share can depend on where the device is made.

This guide explains how SAIL works and what else can help, especially without private insurance.

> **Current as of October 7, 2026.** Funding rules and amounts can change. Confirm eligibility and obtain approval before ordering a device.

## Key takeaways

- **SAIL is the starting point.** It is a Ministry of Health program for residents with a valid Saskatchewan Health Services Number. Its general rules have no income test, but every SAIL program needs a referral from an authorized professional.
- **SAIL has 14 sub-programs.** Seven are universal, including Prosthetics and Orthotics, Special Needs Equipment and Respiratory Equipment. Seven are special benefit programs with their own criteria, such as Paraplegia and Ostomy.
- **CPAP machines are loaned.** Eligible patients pay a $275 program fee that covers the loan and repairs for five years. Masks, headgear and filters are extra.
- **Hearing aids are not a SAIL benefit.** Adults buy them from private clinics. Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits and federal programs may pay for eligible people.
- **Another payer may come first.** SAIL does not pay when WCB, SGI, Non-Insured Health Benefits or Veterans Affairs Canada is responsible.

## What is Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living (SAIL)?

[Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/health-services-for-people-with-disabilities/sail) helps people with physical disabilities live more independently and helps people manage certain chronic health conditions. The Ministry of Health's Drug Plan and Extended Benefits Branch runs it, and the [SAIL General Policies manual](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/11690/formats/106724/download) dates it to 1975.

To be eligible for any SAIL program, a person must:

- Be a Saskatchewan resident with a valid Saskatchewan Health Services Number.
- Be referred by an authorized health care professional.
- Get the service in Saskatchewan, unless the Ministry approves otherwise in advance.
- Not be eligible for the same service from SGI, the Workers' Compensation Board, Non-Insured Health Benefits or Veterans Affairs Canada.

SAIL provides a basic level of coverage. Each program limits equipment types, replacement frequency and supply quantities. Claims must reach SAIL within one year of the date of service.

> **Get the right referral first.** Each SAIL benefit names who may requisition it. For braces and limbs, a family doctor's note is not enough.

## What programs are part of SAIL?

Universal programs serve anyone who needs them. Special benefit programs require applicants to meet that program's criteria.

| SAIL program | What it covers | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Prosthetics and Orthotics | Artificial limbs, braces, specialized wheelchair seating | Universal |
| Special Needs Equipment | Loaned wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, lifts | Universal |
| Respiratory Equipment | CPAP loans, ventilators, suction, trach supplies | Universal |
| Home Oxygen | Prescribed oxygen through contracted suppliers | Universal |
| Therapeutic Nutritional Products | Specialized formulas, income-based co-payment | Universal |
| Children's Enteral Feeding Pump | Loaned feeding pumps and supplies | Universal |
| Compression Garment | Medical-grade compression garments | Universal |
| Paraplegia | Drugs, supplies, home and vehicle grants | Special |
| Cystic Fibrosis | Drugs and nutritional supplements | Special |
| Chronic End-Stage Renal Disease | Drugs for dialysis and kidney transplant patients | Special |
| Ostomy | 50% of eligible ostomy supplies | Special |
| Haemophilia | Home-infusion supplies | Special |
| Aids to the Blind | Low-vision aids and devices | Special |
| Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program | Insulin pumps, under its own criteria | Special |

A few program details patients ask about most:

- **Home oxygen** is applied for by a physician or nurse practitioner with test results. Consumable supplies are not covered unless the person has Supplementary Health coverage or qualifies for end-stage palliative oxygen. User costs vary between suppliers.
- **Ostomy** clients pay the supplier 50% of eligible supplies, after referral by an enterostomal therapy nurse at a Saskatchewan stoma clinic.
- **Paraplegia** covers eligible drugs and supplies at no charge, plus a home access grant of up to $5,000 and a vehicle modification grant of up to $1,670, each every 10 years with prior approval.

## Does SAIL cover CPAP machines?

Yes, through the SAIL Respiratory Equipment Program, but CPAP is a loan with a fee. The Ministry's [CPAP information bulletin](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/87731/formats/104417/download) sets out the rules:

- **Cost:** a $275 program fee covers the loan of a CPAP and repairs for its useful life, defined as five years. It is paid up front, with no payment plans or refunds.
- **Supplies:** patients pay for masks, headgear and filters.
- **Medical criteria:** generally moderate to severe sleep apnea (an RDI or AHI of 15 or higher), or a child under 18 who needs CPAP for a medical condition. Mild sleep apnea qualifies only in limited cases, such as a symptomatic professional driver.
- **Who applies:** after a level one or level three sleep study, a Saskatchewan respirologist (or paediatric respirologist) prescribes CPAP. A sleep specialist at a Saskatchewan Sleep Disorders Centre must confirm the diagnosis.

Many people take a level three study at a private company that also sells CPAP machines. If you want a SAIL machine, tell your respirologist. SAIL does not reimburse machines you bought yourself, does not repair privately purchased equipment and does not offer travel-sized units. After five years, or if a machine fails, you can pay the fee again for a replacement. Damage from misuse or neglect is the client's cost.

> **Low income? The fee may not apply.** The CPAP loan, repairs, replacement and supplies are free for people eligible for Supplementary Health Benefits (adults and children) or Family Health Benefits (children only).

The program also loans ventilators, bi-level machines, suction equipment and cough-assist devices, and covers tracheostomy and laryngectomy supplies. Repairs go through the SAIL Respiratory Benefits Depot at Saskatoon City Hospital (306-655-2505).

## How does SAIL fund prosthetics in Saskatchewan?

The SAIL Prosthetics and Orthotics Program pays for upper- and lower-limb prostheses that meet basic needs, including the socket, suspension, joints and foot or terminal device. Key rules:

- **Referral:** a physiatrist, or an orthopaedic, plastic or vascular surgeon. A paediatrician associated with Wascana Rehabilitation Centre or Kinsmen Children's Centre can also refer.
- **Replacement:** one prosthesis at a time, replaced no more than once every three years, with exceptions for growth, size change or medical condition.
- **Repairs:** covered when they cost no more than 75% of a replacement.
- **Upgrades:** SAIL funds the least costly device that meets basic needs. A patient can pay the difference for an upgrade if told and agreeing in advance.
- **Microprocessor knees:** cost-shared, with SAIL paying a maximum of $15,000 after an interdisciplinary team assessment.
- **Consumables:** annual limits apply, such as four shrinkers, 12 stump socks and four to six gel or silicone liners per 12 months.

Devices for intermittent or cosmetic use are not covered. Breast and ocular prostheses are also outside this program.

[The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/child-amputees/) pays the portion of children's everyday limbs, adjustments and repairs that provincial or private plans don't cover. [The War Amps Adult Amputee Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/adult-amputees/) helps enrolled amputees 18 and older after provincial and private or workplace coverage has been used.

## How does SAIL fund orthotics and braces?

SAIL covers upper- and lower-extremity braces, including ankle-foot orthoses, knee braces, splints and fracture braces. The rules that most often surprise patients:

- **A specialist must requisition the brace.** Eligible specialties include physiatry, orthopaedics, paediatrics, neurology and rheumatology. Sports medicine specialists can order knee and ankle braces only.
- **Replacement is limited** to once every two years, with exceptions for growth, size change or medical condition.
- **High-cost knee braces are cost-shared.** SAIL pays a maximum of $500.
- **Footwear is covered only with a leg brace.** The benefit list is built around braces, so ask before assuming custom foot orthotics are covered.
- **Not covered:** sport-only braces, back corsets, soft back braces, cervical collars and off-the-shelf wrist or hand braces.

SAIL also funds a functional electrical stimulation device for foot drop, up to $3,500 once every five years, for patients who meet its criteria.

### Public and private providers

Where the device is made affects the bill:

- **Public providers.** A specialist sends the requisition to [Wascana Rehabilitation Centre](https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/facilities-locations/wascana-rehabilitation-centre) in Regina, a Saskatchewan Health Authority facility, or to [SaskAbilities](https://www.saskabilities.ca/services/independent-living/orthopaedics/) in Saskatoon. SaskAbilities says most orthotic services are covered with a specialist's requisition, though some items, such as certain knee braces, are cost-shared.
- **Private providers.** A patient can take the prescription to a certified private orthotist or prosthetist. SAIL's policy says private providers bill SAIL "for the cost of materials only," and the invoice must show a client share. Get the client share in writing before fabrication.

Supplementary Health clients, and children with Family Health Benefits, can have the client share of an orthotic covered.

## How do you get a wheelchair or walker through SAIL?

Mobility equipment comes through the Special Needs Equipment program, which the Ministry contracts [SaskAbilities](https://www.saskabilities.ca/services/independent-living/special-needs-equipment/) to run. SaskAbilities was known as the [Saskatchewan Abilities Council](https://www.saskabilities.ca/about/our-organization/) until 2017. Equipment is loaned, not bought, and is returned when no longer needed.

Loan items include manual and power wheelchairs, cushions, folding walkers, forearm crutches, paediatric mobility aids, hospital beds, patient lifts and commodes. An authorized professional, usually an occupational therapist or physiotherapist, must requisition them. Ultralight and power wheelchairs need a physiatrist or an eligible paediatrician. Depot technicians repair SAIL equipment at no cost.

Limits to know:

- Canes, axillary crutches, raised toilet seats and wall bars are loaned only to people with Supplementary Health, Seniors Income Plan or Family Health Benefits coverage.
- Scooters, four-wheeled walkers with seats and medical alarms are not benefits, and patients cannot pay extra to add unfunded features.
- Installation in the home is not funded.
- Eligible clients can choose a $2,500 grant toward an ultralight wheelchair instead of a loan, under a trial that began April 1, 2019.

## Does Saskatchewan cover hearing aids?

Not for most adults. Saskatchewan's [audiology and hearing services page](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/audiology-and-hearing-services) says adult hearing tests and hearing aids are available only through private clinics, with a charge wherever they are bought. The Ministry's [Hearing Services Q&A](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/86263/formats/109281/download) notes that it does not regulate private clinic fees and refers to "the former Hearing Aid Plan."

For children, the Saskatchewan Health Authority runs hearing clinics in Saskatoon (306-655-4170) and Regina (306-766-5625). They sell children's hearing aids, typically at a lower cost.

Who can help pay:

- **Supplementary Health Benefits** covers audiology services and hearing aids through approved suppliers, mostly with prior approval. Replacing a lost or broken aid is considered case by case, with a 30% co-payment for clients over 20.
- **Family Health Benefits** covers hearing tests and hearing aids for children.
- **WCB** or another third-party insurer may cover hearing services under an accepted claim.
- **NIHB, Veterans Affairs Canada and IFHP** cover hearing equipment for eligible people.

The province also runs a Cochlear Implant Processor Replacement Program with an $840 co-pay per processor.

## Can Supplementary Health or Family Health Benefits cover the rest?

Often, yes. [Supplementary Health Benefits](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/prescription-drug-plans-and-health-coverage/extended-benefits-and-drug-plan/supplementary-health-benefits) covers people enrolled in Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID), Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) or the Saskatchewan Employment Incentive, among others. [Family Health Benefits](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/prescription-drug-plans-and-health-coverage/extended-benefits-and-drug-plan/family-health-benefits) helps low-income working families who pass an income test, mainly for children's care.

Within SAIL, these programs can pick up:

- The $275 CPAP fee and CPAP supplies.
- The client share of an orthotic.
- Home oxygen supplies, for Supplementary Health clients.
- The full cost of a nebulizer up to $160, instead of the standard 50% to a maximum of $125.
- Restricted loan items such as canes and bathroom aids.
- Hearing tests and hearing aids.

Payments go directly to providers, so bring your health card and approval letter.

## Which other programs pay before SAIL?

**Work injuries.** The [Saskatchewan Workers' Compensation Board](https://www.wcbsask.com/clothing-allowance-orthotics-and-appliances) covers approved orthotics, prosthetic limbs, braces and footwear that are medically necessary because of a work injury, including repair or replacement after normal wear. A prescription or recommendation is required.

**Vehicle collisions.** SGI's [No Fault Coverage](https://sgi.sk.ca/basic-auto-injury-insurance) applies to Saskatchewan residents unless they have chosen Tort Coverage, and it includes rehabilitation and medical expenses. Report injuries early, because SAIL does not pay when SGI or WCB is responsible.

**First Nations and Inuit.** The federal [Non-Insured Health Benefits program](https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1585320116553/1585320137871) has benefit lists for audiology, orthotics, prosthetics and mobility equipment, many needing prior approval. NIHB says it covers what provincial plans don't, while SAIL's policy lists NIHB among the agencies whose eligibility rules out SAIL. Confirm with both before ordering.

**Veterans.** [Veterans Affairs Canada](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/programs-choice) covers aids for daily living such as wheelchairs, hearing aids and fitting fees, prosthetics, orthotics and special equipment for eligible veterans.

**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) pays 70% of eligible supplemental benefits, including prosthetics, mobility aids and hearing aids. The patient pays 30%, and the provider must be registered with IFHP.

## How do you contact SAIL?

The official SAIL page lists these contacts:

- **Phone:** 306-787-7121
- **Toll-free:** 1-888-787-8996
- **Fax:** 306-787-8679
- **Mail:** 3475 Albert Street, Regina, SK S4S 6X6

For respiratory equipment repairs, call the SAIL Respiratory Benefits Depot at 306-655-2505 before sending a machine. For wheelchair loans, returns and repairs, contact a [SaskAbilities Special Needs Equipment depot](https://www.saskabilities.ca/services/independent-living/special-needs-equipment/).

## How to apply for assistive device funding in Saskatchewan

1. **Identify the primary payer.** Check WCB, SGI, NIHB, Veterans Affairs and IFHP before SAIL.
2. **Get the right referral.** A specialist for braces and limbs, a therapist for most mobility equipment, a respirologist for CPAP.
3. **Choose a provider.** Ask how a public or private provider changes the client share.
4. **Get an itemized estimate.** Separate the SAIL amount, client share, upgrades and consumables.
5. **Confirm Supplementary Health or Family Health Benefits status** before ordering.
6. **Apply to charities last.** Groups like The War Amps expect public and private coverage to be used first.
7. **Keep records.** Save requisitions, estimates, approvals and denials.
8. **Order only once funding is confirmed.**

**Run your clinic on Medfair.** [Sign up](https://medfair.ca/register) · [Schedule a Demo](https://medfair.ca/contact)

## Frequently asked questions about Saskatchewan assistive device funding

### How much does a CPAP cost through SAIL?

Eligible patients pay a $275 program fee covering the machine's loan and repairs for five years. Masks, headgear and filters are extra. Supplementary Health clients, and children with Family Health Benefits, pay nothing.

### What is the SAIL phone number?

306-787-7121, or toll-free 1-888-787-8996. For CPAP repairs, call the SAIL Respiratory Benefits Depot at Saskatoon City Hospital at 306-655-2505.

### Does SAIL pay for hearing aids?

No. Adults buy hearing tests and aids from private clinics. Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits for children, WCB, NIHB, Veterans Affairs or IFHP may pay for eligible people.

### Does SAIL cover scooters?

No. Scooters and four-wheeled walkers with seats are non-benefits. SAIL loans manual and power wheelchairs to people who meet the criteria.

### Where can I find local funding help?

Hospital social workers and rehabilitation therapists often know about local funds. [211 Saskatchewan](https://sk.211.ca/) is a free, confidential service that connects people with community resources across the province. Dial 2-1-1, 24 hours a day.

## Plan the funding before the device is made

SAIL covers a lot, but it runs on loans, maximums and referral rules. Patients who pay the least out of pocket usually settle three questions early: which payer is responsible, who must sign the requisition, and what the client share will be.

Answer them before anything is ordered, and most surprise bills disappear.

For clinics, keeping the prescription, approvals, estimate and invoices for each payer connected makes this easier to follow. [Medfair](https://medfair.ca/features) keeps patient files, scheduling, claims and billing in one system.

Comparing provinces? Read our funding guides for [British Columbia](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-british-columbia-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding), [Alberta](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-alberta-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding), [Manitoba](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-manitoba-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding), [Ontario](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-ontario-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding) and [Quebec](https://medfair.ca/journal/how-quebec-does-prosthetics-and-orthotics-funding).

---

## Sources

- [Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living (SAIL)](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/health-services-for-people-with-disabilities/sail)
- [SAIL General Policies manual (Ministry of Health)](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/11690/formats/106724/download)
- [SAIL Respiratory Equipment Program overview: CPAP](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/87731/formats/104417/download)
- [Audiology and hearing services](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/audiology-and-hearing-services)
- [Hearing Services: Questions and Answers](https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/86263/formats/109281/download)
- [Supplementary Health Benefits](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/prescription-drug-plans-and-health-coverage/extended-benefits-and-drug-plan/supplementary-health-benefits)
- [Family Health Benefits](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/prescription-drug-plans-and-health-coverage/extended-benefits-and-drug-plan/family-health-benefits)
- [Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID)](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/people-with-disabilities/income-support-for-people-with-disabilities)
- [Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program](https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/insulin-pump-program)
- [SaskAbilities orthopaedic services](https://www.saskabilities.ca/services/independent-living/orthopaedics/)
- [SaskAbilities Special Needs Equipment](https://www.saskabilities.ca/services/independent-living/special-needs-equipment/)
- [SaskAbilities: our organization](https://www.saskabilities.ca/about/our-organization/)
- [Wascana Rehabilitation Centre (Saskatchewan Health Authority)](https://www.saskhealthauthority.ca/facilities-locations/wascana-rehabilitation-centre)
- [WCB Saskatchewan: clothing allowance, orthotics and appliances](https://www.wcbsask.com/clothing-allowance-orthotics-and-appliances)
- [SGI basic auto injury insurance](https://sgi.sk.ca/basic-auto-injury-insurance)
- [Non-Insured Health Benefits: Medical Supplies and Equipment Guide](https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1585320116553/1585320137871)
- [Veterans Affairs Canada health care programs of choice](https://www.veterans.gc.ca/en/programs-choice)
- [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)
- [The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/child-amputees/)
- [The War Amps Adult Amputee Program](https://waramps.ca/ways-we-help/adult-amputees/)
- [211 Saskatchewan](https://sk.211.ca/)