Independent Living & the Assistive Devices Program
Earlier this year, I took part in a seminar at a library; as I was about to leave, I heard the presenter talking about a program called the Assistive Devices Program (ADP). If you are like me, you want to know of any way in which you can save money. I was therefore intrigued by the little I heard about this program and vowed to get more information on the topic. As I thought about it more, it occurred to me that, surely, people who could benefit from this program must know about it. Recently however, I came across a letter from a diabetic patient, stating that she could have saved $1,500 "had she applied for the ADP coverage sooner". I know how difficult times are for some people these days, so really feel obliged to spread the word on how people who need help can save some money.
WHAT IS ASSISTIVE DEVICES PROGRAM (ADP)?
ADP helps people with long-term physical disabilities get needed equipment and supplies. In some cases ADP pays for 75% of the cost of the item; in other cases, there is a fixed contribution up to a maximum. Beneficiaries of Ontario Works (OW), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Assistance to Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) may be eligible for a greater contribution.
WHO CAN APPLY FOR ADP?
Any resident of Ontario with a valid health card is eligible for ADP if s/he has a long-term physical disability (6 months or longer), chronic illness or dysfunction that requires long term oxygen therapy.
There are NO income limits. Applicants must not be receiving benefits under WSIB or Group 'A' Veterans for their pensioned conditions.
WHAT IS COVERED UNDER ADP?
The ADP covers a wide variety of devices including the following:
• Hearing Aids
• Visual Aids
• Communication Devices
• Home Oxygen
• Diabetes Equipment & Supplies
• Entering Feeding Supplies
• Insulin Pumps & Supplies
• Orthotic Devices
• Ostomy Devices
• Pressure Modification Devices
• Prosthetic Devices
• Respiratory Supplies & Equipmen
• Wheelchairs, Positioning & Ambulatory Aids
HOW TO APPLY FOR ADP
Applying for the ADP is quite simple.
1. Visit your doctor for diagnosis and referral to an authorised health care professional registered with the ADP program.
2. The authorised professional will do an assessment to determine if you meet funding criteria. Assessments may be done at home, at a private practice or at a hospital.
3. In some instances the authoriser gives approval for the equipment. At other times, ADP must give the approval.
4. Take the approved form to a vendor registered with the ADP program to purchase your equipment.
Some important points to note are that:
• You may not be reimbursed for equipment already received. Resist the urge to purchase, rent or borrow an item from a supplier before applying for ADP.
• You can purchase from any registered supplier, even if the authoriser specifically recommends one.
• Not all equipment within a category is covered by ADP. For example, not every walker is covered; generally the less expensive ones are not.
• ADP will not pay for replacement of lost, stolen or damaged equipment. You are advised to insure your equipment.
Opal Rowe
No Where Like Home
416.628.5072
orowe@nowherelikehome.ca
www.nowherelikehome.ca
