Many people facing a cancer diagnosis feel overwhelmed by questions and costs. To support you, there are two financial assistance programs:
  • Through the LHSC Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre
  • Through the Ontario Ministry of Health
These programs can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses during treatment for you or a loved one.

Patient Assistant Program

Funding is available for adults in emergency or short-term situations when no other support is available.
​You must meet all criteria:
  • Receiving treatment at the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre or an affiliated South Western Ontario regional partner site
  • Experiencing financial hardship due to cancer and its treatment
  • Expenses must be within the last 6 months
  • Applicants are expected to first use other supports such as employment benefits, Ontario Works, ODSP, ADP, or Community Care Access Centre​.​
Eligible Expenses Funding may cover:
  • Wig (up to $800)
  • Head coverings
  • Breast prostheses (portion not covered by ADP)
  • Mastectomy bras (max 4)
  • Mastectomy swimsuit
  • Childcare during treatment
  • Respite care
  • Transportation (if volunteer drivers are unavailable)
  • Parking (pre-approval required)
  • Equipment rentals
  • Drugs (e.g., Trillium deductible, supportive medications)
  • High-protein/high-energy nutrition beverage
  • ​Lymphedema supplies (portion not covered by ADP)
Not Eligible Funding does not cover:
  • Private pay chemotherapy
  • Non-OHIP tests or procedures
  • Out-of-province treatment travel
  • Living expenses or meals
  • Fertility preservation
  • Transportation if volunteer drivers are available or if the patient qualifies for the Residence Inn
Disclaimer: This information is shared for your convenience. The Patient Assistance Program is managed by the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre at the London Health Sciences Centre, and details may change. Please confirm eligibility and coverage directly with the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre.

Assistive Devices Program (ADP)

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) helps cover part of the cost of breast prostheses. It is run by the Ontario Ministry of Health and available to anyone living in Ontario with a valid Health Card.
Who qualifies?
  • Ontario residents with a valid Health Card
  • Anyone who has had a mastectomy or lumpectomy
  • Anyone who now requires a breast prosthetic due to surgery or a medical condition
  • Anyone born with the need for a breast prosthetic
Funding amounts
  • Full prosthesis: $195 each (max $390 for two)
  • Partial prosthesis: $105 each (max $210 for two)
  • Pay in full at purchase; ADP reimburses part of the cost.
  • Private insurance may cover the balance.
  • If no insurance, costs can be claimed on income tax.
  • Special options exist for ODSP or Ontario Works recipients.
How to apply
  • JBF will assist you with the paperwork.
  • Customer mails the form or completes it online.
  • Reimbursement arrives by cheque or by the method indicated online.
How often can you apply?
  • Once within 24 months (from date of purchase). You can apply to replace breast prosthetics you originally purchased through the ADP.
  • One replacement allowed within 2 years if your body changes in size or shape.
Disclaimer: This information is shared for your convenience. The Assistive Devices Program is managed by the Ontario Ministry of Health, and details may change. Please confirm eligibility and coverage directly with the Ministry.