Equipment & Supplies

Well on Your Way

Do you know what kind of equipment and medical supplies you need for your health and who is responsible for the cost? If your parent or caregiver orders your equipment and supplies, now is the time to find out:

  • the names of the equipment/supplies
  • how to order the equipment/supplies and from where
  • how long equipment/supplies take to arrive (days, weeks, months)
  • how much  the equipment/supplies cost and who pays for it
  • when your medical equipment needs to be replaced
  • criteria you must meet to stay on medical equipment, like insulin pumps
  • how to make changes or update your contact information with your supplier

Maintenance

Many medical devices need ongoing care and maintenance. Read the equipment instructions or ask your supplier to find out:

  • how the equipment is maintained or cleaned
  • who to call if you have an emergency related to the medical equipment/supplies

Fill and send in the warranty card so the company can contact you if they need to service, recall, or send out a safety notice. Make sure you have back-up equipment/supplies in case of emergency.

How will I pay for my supplies or equipment?

You may be able to cover the cost through Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) or another Health Benefits or Insurance program. However, even with AADL and insurance, equipment/supplies can still cost you money. It is a good idea to ask your parents to help you learn about what things cost and how to manage your money.

If the cost of your equipment/supplies is not covered, you have some options:

  1. Talk to your doctor/nurse practitioner. They may be able to recommend something that will work for you.
  2. Check with charitable organizations that sometimes help people with disabilities or health conditions (e.g., Kinsmen, Easter Seals, Good Neighbours Fund, or Rotary).
  3. Contact the manufacturer of your equipment/supplies. Sometimes they can offer short term support.
  4. Ask community agencies for help or ideas.

What can you do if everyone says “no”? Continue to advocate for yourself.

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