ADP For Mobility
If you find yourself in a position where you need to purchase a walker or wheelchair you may have many questions about the cost and process associated with purchasing this equipment. The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care helps people who need these mobility devices by providing funding through their Assistive Devices Program (ADP).
Frequently Asked Questions:
The assistive devices program will cover up to 75% of the cost of a walker or wheelchair for eligible people.
If you are concerned about the additional cost associated with this purchase check with your insurance company to see if they will provide any further coverage. Other groups, such as the Ontario March of Dimes, may also provide help.
If you receive benefits from Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) you may also qualify for additional funding through ADP.
Any resident of Ontario with a physical disability of six months or longer and who holds a valid health card may apply.
You are eligible to apply whatever your income level is.
ADP will not pay for equipment available under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) or to Group “A” veterans for their pensioned benefits.
If you have obtained a mobility device through ADP and are looking for a replacement you will be eligible to apply for a new one after five years. If there has been a significant change in your status prior to this time you may be able to apply sooner. However, in all cases, you must go through your doctor or therapist to fill in an application form outlining the reasons for this replacement.
Your doctor can refer you to a registered ADP authorizer for evaluation. These authorizers are health care professionals (typically occupational therapists or physiotherapists) who are able to guide you through the process. They will conduct a thorough assessment to determine your needs, confirm your eligibility and complete the ADP application form. You and the authorizer will work with an ADP registered vendor of your choice to find the equipment that best suits your needs. This can include a trial period with the walker or wheelchair with adjustments made as required prior to submitting the application.
How Can HNHB Spine and Neuro Help?
Our physiotherapist, Dianne Schaible, is a registered ADP authorizer and conducts comprehensive assessments for people looking to apply for a manual wheelchair or walker. She will guide you through each step of the application process; including, providing advice on what to consider when choosing a vendor and recommending necessary adjustments when trialing equipment. Dianne believes the key to obtaining the best mobility device begins with a thorough assessment and this is best accomplished in our fully accessible clinic. This assessment involves evaluating you in a seated position as well as having you lie down on one of our firm, adjustable tables. This step is beneficial as it allows for more accurate measurements to be taken and provides a clear picture of how your body moves and adjusts to different positions.
In addition, Dianne will take the time to understand your specific needs, goals and lifestyle. Upon assessment, she will work closely with you and your chosen vendor to find the equipment that will be the best fit for you. Once the application process is complete, and you have your mobility device Dianne can provide follow up as needed.
This process may seem overwhelming at first but be assured that at HNHB Spine and Neuro Rehab we have the knowledge to assist you throughout all stages, and we care about providing you with the best equipment to support your needs.
