How to Get Your Incontinence Supplies Covered by ODSP

Quick answer: Yes, ODSP can cover incontinence supplies such as adult diapers, pads and catheters through the Mandatory Special Necessities (MSN) benefit. Your doctor or nurse practitioner completes the MSN form, your caseworker approves it, and a supplier such as ActivKare bills ODSP directly so you don't pay upfront.

Disclaimer: The information in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, tax or financial advice. Program rules and coverage change often, so always confirm details directly with the program, your insurer, or a tax professional, and speak with your doctor, nurse, or continence specialist about your medical needs. We do our best to keep this information accurate and up to date, but we can't guarantee that it is complete or error-free.

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If you receive the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP), you may be able to get your incontinence supplies covered. ActivKare can bill ODSP directly, so eligible clients don't pay upfront. Here's how it works.

What incontinence supplies does ODSP cover?

ODSP can cover incontinence supplies through the Mandatory Special Necessities (MSN) benefit. Depending on your medical need, eligible items may include:

  • Adult diapers and briefs
  • Disposable liners and containment pads
  • Reusable mesh pants
  • Underpads, disposable or washable
  • External catheters for men and women, intermittent and indwelling catheters, drainage bags and tubing
  • Gloves, barrier cream and incontinence wipes
  • Ostomy and urostomy supplies

Your caseworker makes the final decision on what is covered.

Who qualifies for ODSP incontinence coverage?

To qualify, you need to be receiving ODSP income support. The Mandatory Special Necessities benefit is available to every member of your ODSP benefit unit, including dependent adults, when an approved healthcare professional confirms on the MSN application that you need the supplies because of a medical condition. For incontinence supplies, this generally means moderate to severe daily bladder or bowel incontinence that can't be resolved and needs a medical-grade product at least three times a day, or a condition that prevents continence.

A few exceptions apply:

  • ODSP doesn't cover supplies that private insurance or another program already pays for.
  • Children and youth aged 3 to 18 should apply for the Easter Seals Incontinence Supplies Grant first. ODSP can help once that grant runs out. ODSP doesn't cover children under 4.
  • Supplies used in a hospital or long-term care home aren't covered, unless they're part of a discharge plan.

How do I apply for ODSP incontinence supplies?

  1. Tell your ODSP caseworker you'd like ActivKare as your supplier. If you don't know your caseworker, contact your local ODSP office.
  2. See your doctor or nurse practitioner. They complete the MSN form describing your incontinence and the supplies you need.
  3. Your caseworker sends us the approval. They can fax it to 613-416-3823 along with billing details.
  4. We call you to set up your order. We confirm your products, sizes and delivery address.
  5. Supplies arrive monthly. We bill ODSP directly each month. You don't pay out of pocket for approved items.

Tips for a smooth approval

  • Ask your doctor to be specific about the type of incontinence and how often you need to change.
  • If your needs change, for example after surgery, ask for an updated form.
  • Keep a copy of every form you sign.

Not on ODSP?

You may still have options. Private insurance, WSIB, Veterans Affairs Canada and other programs may reimburse you for supplies. ActivKare only bills ODSP directly, so for these you pay at checkout and submit your receipt. Incontinence products may also qualify for the medical expense tax credit. See Insurance & Government Programs and Tax Receipts and Deductions.

We'll help you through it

Call 1-855-811-3733, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM ET, or read our ODSP Direct Billing page.

Caseworkers: see the registration steps on our ODSP Direct Billing page.

Frequently asked questions

Does ODSP cover adult diapers?

Yes. Adult diapers and briefs, liners, containment pads and underpads can be covered under the Mandatory Special Necessities benefit when a healthcare professional confirms the need. Your caseworker decides which products are approved.

What is the ODSP Mandatory Special Necessities form?

It is the form a doctor or nurse practitioner completes to confirm you need medical supplies, such as incontinence or catheter supplies, because of a medical condition.

Does ODSP cover catheters?

Catheters and related supplies may be covered when medically needed. Your caseworker confirms what is approved.

Can I choose my own supplier?

Tell your caseworker which supplier you'd like to use. ActivKare bills ODSP directly for approved clients.

Is there coverage outside Ontario?

Other provinces have their own disability and income assistance programs. Contact us and we'll help you check what applies to you.

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