Funding Sources

In Alberta the average cost to construct a below-knee prosthesis, including the materials necessary to use it, is approximately $12,000.  For an above-knee prosthesis the cost is about $17,000. 

There are a number of funding sources individuals can access to assist with the cost. However, the amount of coverage and the devises that are covered can differ.  Funding institutions and insurance programs may not cover some types of devices, Myoelectrics is an example that is not covered, so patients should look into their coverage to ensure they are aware of and understand any exclusions or restrictions.

These are the primary organizations who provide financial support for prosthetic treatment (click on the name to go to the organization's website):

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL): 

All Alberta residents, who have a valid Alberta Health Care number and have undergone an amputation, are entitled to prosthetic benefits under the Alberta Aids to Daily Living Program.

The coverage for prosthetic devices and supplies is subject to a 25 percent deductible up to a maximum of $500 annually. Once the deductible has been reached, the patient receives 100 percent coverage for the remainder of the deductible year, which runs from July 1st to June 30th. Exclusions include seniors over the age of 65 and those on social assistance (AISH) who are not required to pay the deductible before receiving full coverage.  

Some items may not be covered by AADL or AADL may not cover the full cost.  In these cases, the patient must cover the shortfall in funding over and above any deductible.

Private Insurance: 

Prosthetic Benefit assistance is usually available to individuals who have an established private health insurance coverage through their places of employment. The benefits of plans such as these typically cover the primary party as well as the spouse and children.

These plans can vary greatly so individuals should consult their plan administrators to find out about the specifics of their prosthetic coverage.

The War Amps of Canada: 

This organization has established two different programs to aid in funding prosthetic devices.  The Adult Amputee Program is for individuals over 18 years of age and the Champs Program is for children 18 years or younger.

The Adult Amputee Program was established to help adult Canadians with the cost of prosthetic upgrades. The Adult Program will accept any new amputee who applies and will provide financial assistance towards the cost of a new prosthetic device once every three years.

The Champs Program usually provides partial supplementary coverage for common prosthetic devices. Recreational and Myoelectric prostheses are of special interest to the War Amps and they take great pains to make sure that child amputees have what they require to pursue their daily activities.

The Workers Compensation Board of Alberta:  

It provides 100 percent prosthetic benefit coverage to individuals who suffered an amputation in a work related event.  Often coverage includes mileage to and from prosthetic related appointments.

Veterans Affairs Canada:  

It provides financial coverage for prostheses to individuals who have lost a limb during wartime or peacekeeping missions.

Health Canada: 

This organization supplies all Registered Indians, Eligible Inuit and Innu with prosthetic benefits. Funding is administered through ESI Canada.  The prosthetic benefit coverage is 100 percent for all devices and supplies.