Cancer Care: Lymphedema

The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and is vital for immune function. Lymphedema, or lymphatic 

obstruction, is a long-term condition where excess fluid collects in your tissues, causing swelling (edema). 

Learn more about lymphedema and access support through the Canadian Cancer Society and 

the Lymphedema Association of Ontario.

Nurse checking vitals with stethoscope

The Assistive Devices Program or 'ADP' is a Government of Ontario program that can provide funding for items such as lymphedema sleeves. 

 

ADP can cover 75% of the cost of devices and will directly reimburse the vendor. Patients are responsible for the remaining 25%. In some cases, ADP may be willing to cover up to 100% - such as for patients on social assistance like ODSP.

 

ADP is available for all Ontario residents with a valid Ontario Health Card. Your income is not considered. Group A Veterans may receive support from Veterans Affairs Canada instead. For a checklist of how to obtain ADP funding for your lymphedema sleeve, please read the “To Do” list. 

 

To find a local authorizer, email adp@ontario.ca to inquire about "ADP Registered Authorizers” in your area.

Download a printed version of this list. 

 

  • STEP 1: Follow this link to get an “Application for Funding Pressure Modification Devices” form which can be filled out in Adobe Acrobat Reader and then saved and/or printed. At the time this information was porsed, it is form 014-4823-67e (English). The page also has information about Adobe Acrobat Reader, if you need it.
     
  • STEP 2: Fill in your information on Section 1 (Page 1) and Section 3 (Page 5).
     
  • STEP 3: Have your specialist physician (such as a medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, internal medicine, surgeon, or general practitioner in oncology) complete Section 2 (Page 1) and Section 4 (Page 5). 
    • Please note: this cannot be completed by your family doctor. 
    • If you have been discharged from our clinic, please have your family doctor consult one of our Medical Oncologists to have this form completed. 
       
  • STEP 4: Your specialist physician will refer you to an “ADP Authorizer.”
     
  • STEP 5: Your “ADP Authorizer” will complete Sections 2a - 2b (Page 1-4) and Section 4 (Page 6)
     
  • STEP 6: Your “ADP Authorizer” will send you a registered “ADP Vendor” and a certified “ADP Fitter.” The Vendor may also be your Fitter, or you may see more than one person for this step. 
     
  • STEP 7: Your “ADP Fitter” will measure and fit you for your device. Either the “ADP Fitter” or “ADP Vendor” will reach you about your device.  
     
  • STEP 8: Your “ADP Fitter” and “ADP Vendor” complete Section 4 (on Page 6). The form should now be complete. 
     
  • STEP 9: The completed ADP form is sent to:
        Assistive Devices Program
        5700 Yonge Street, 7th Floor
        Toronto, ON M2M 4K5
     
  • STEP 10: Your application will be reviewed in 6-8 weeks. If your application is rejected, you will be notified in writing. If your application is accepted, ADP will let your “ADP Vendor” know. Your “ADP Vendor” will then contact you. If you choose to order your device before your application is reviewed, you will be responsible for the entire cost if the application is denied.  
     

Please refer to the step by step guide of the ADP "to Do"

ADP Registered Authorizers

To find a local authorizer, email adp@ontario.ca to inquire about "ADP Registered Authorizers” in your area.

 

ADP Approved Vendors

To find up-to-date approved vendors, visit the Province of Ontario's Garments, Pumps and Braces page.

For the most up-to-date list of Certified Lymphedema Therapists, please visit the Certified Lymphedema Therapists directory at the Lymphedema Association of Ontario