PATIENTS
OVERVIEW
We welcome all patients and do not require a referral for an initial visit. A prescription may be required if you plan to apply for funding or third-party coverage, and our team can help guide you through that process.
Initial assessments are free of charge. During your visit, we will review your needs, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions to help you make informed decisions about your care.
VANCOUVER PROSTHETICS + ORTHOTICS
FUNDING OPTIONS
All avenues of funding will be examined with the help of our in-house clinical funding team to make sure the client receives available financial support during the process. This can be valuable for the client as navigating the complexity with various funding agencies can be confusing and daunting.
PROSTHETICS
BC PHARMACARE
PharmaCare reimbursement is dependent on your plan rules, including any annual deductible requirement. The deductible amount is based on your combined family income and resets
the 1st of January each year.
Key Requirements:
• Enrolled in BC Medical Services Plan (MSP)
• Up to date Income Tax Return filings for past 2 years
• Prescription from doctor with diagnosis
• Assessment by Certified Prosthetist
The Certified Prosthetist will submit the preauthorization.
Once approved, the patient will be contacted for fitting appointments and dispensing of the device.
WORKSAFE BC
Key Requirements:
• A WorkSafe BC claim number and open claim
• An assessment with a Certified Prosthetist
The prosthetist will submit the claim form for the device. Once approved, the device can be dispensed to the patient.
ICBC
Key Requirements:
• ICBC claim number, adjudicator, contact information
• Prescription from a doctor with diagnosis
• Assessment with a Certified Prosthetist
The prosthetist will submit the claim form for the device. Once approved, the device can be dispensed to the patient.
WARAMPS
ORTHOTICS
THIRD PARTY INSURANCE
(Pacific Blue Cross, Canada Life, Greenshield, etc)
Key Requirements:
• Prescription from your doctor with diagnosis
• An estimate for the device if you are applying for
pre-approval
• A paid invoice if you are submitting a claim
• Appropriate claim form from insurance company
Vancouver Prosthetics and Orthotics can direct bill Greenshield, depending on your plan, and Pacific Blue Cross if the claim is over $1000 and we receive pre-approval.
If you receive a denial for your application, contact our office because the insurance company may need more information.
MINISTRY OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & POVERTY REDUCTION
The Process of Funding Applications:
• Must be registered with the Ministry of Social
Development and Poverty Reduction or Persons
with Disabilities (PWD)
• Fill out Section 1 of form HR2894
• Have your doctor fill out Section 2
• Have an assessment with a Certified Orthotist
• The Certified Orthotist will fill out Section 3 and submit
it to the Ministry program
• If approved, they will contact the patient and our office
• If denied, they only contact the patient. If you receive any
information about your claim, please contact our office
• Once approved, we can continue the process of
distributing the device to you, whether that be a fitting
appointment for an off-the-shelf device or a casting appointment for a custom device
WORKSAFE BC
Key Requirements:
• A WorkSafe BC claim number and open claim
• An assessment with a Certified Prosthetist
The Orthotist will submit the pre-authorization for the device. Once approved, the device can be dispensed to the patient.
ICBC
Key Requirements:
• ICBC claim number, adjudicator, contact information
• Prescription from a doctor with diagnosis
• Assessment with a Certified Prosthetist
The prosthetist will submit the claim form for the device. Once approved, the device can be dispensed to the patient.
BC PHARMACARE
BC Pharmacare is only accessible for individuals under the age of 18. Vancouver Prosthetics and Orthotics will direct bill on your behalf after an assessment by a Certified Orthotist. PharmaCare reimbursement is dependent on your plan rules, including any annual deductible requirement. The deductible amount is based on your combined family income and resets the 1st of January each year.
BC Pharmacare does not cover foot orthotics or upper extremity orthotics.
Key Requirements:
• Enrolled in BC Medical Services Plan (MSP)
• Prescription from doctor with diagnosis
• Assessment by a Certified Orthotist
FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY
AMPUTATION CONSIDERATIONS
Post Surgical
Proper care of your residual limb after amputation is important for future prosthetic success. Protect the surgical site from impact and wear your shrinker socks as directed to reduce swelling and help shape the limb for casting and socket fitting.
Phantom limb sensations or pain are common after surgery and may feel like cramping, aching, burning, or shock-like sensations. Speak with your care team about strategies to manage these symptoms.
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a key role in recovery. This includes strengthening your upper body and unaffected limb, stretching tight muscles, and improving balance and range of motion. Attend scheduled therapy sessions and continue recommended exercises at home.
On-Going Care
Stay connected with your prosthetist and care team for follow-up and adjustments. Your residual limb and activity level may change over time, affecting socket fit and component needs. On-going support helps ensure your prosthesis continues to function effectively.
Emotional Support & Organizations
Adjusting to limb loss and the prosthetic process can be challenging and overwhelming. Here are some programs and resources that can help you navigate this new reality.
GF Strong Rehabilitation Hospital offers a peer support program that connects new patients with experienced prosthetic users to share insights and answer questions. If you're interested, we can connect you to the program.
Other Organizations
Amputee Coalition of BC is a non-profit society that advocates and empowers all people living with an amputation and all persons with disabilities. Read more about their mission here.
The Amputee Coalition of Canada (ACC), a non-profit organization, has improved and advanced the quality of life for persons with limb loss. The ACC provides subsequent support for individuals as rehabilitation focuses only on delivering immediate essential education to learn to live with limb loss. You can find more information here.
Orthotics Prosthetics Canada (OPC) is the governing body of the prosthetics and orthotics profession in Canada. You can find certified clinicians in your area and learn about the profession here.
DONNING & WEARING INSTRUCTIONS
Orthotics
A gradual wear schedule is recommended for most orthoses unless otherwise advised. Begin with 30–60 minutes per day and increase by one-hour increments over the following days. Monitor the skin for redness or irritation. If redness does not resolve within 30 minutes after removing the device, adjustments may be needed. Mild soreness is expected as your body adapts, but any pain should be addressed.
Prosthetics
After receiving your device, your physical therapist will guide you on proper use, including donning and care of your liner and accessories. Understanding sock ply is important for maintaining a proper socket fit. Your therapist will also recommend an appropriate walking schedule and how to increase activity gradually as your tolerance improves.
Monitor your skin for redness or irritation. If redness does not resolve within 30 minutes after removing the device, adjustments may be needed. Mild soreness is expected as your body adapts, but any pain should be addressed.