You will qualify for healthcare coverage and receive a VAC healthcare card if you are eligible for:

• a disability benefit,
• the Veterans Independence Program,
• the War Veterans Allowance, or
• financial assistance from VAC for long-term care.

You will receive a VAC healthcare card if you qualify for the Treatment Benefits program. This healthcare card provides coverage for such things as ostomy supplies.

You do not need to apply for the treatment benefits program or a VAC healthcare card. A card will be sent directly to you after receiving one of the benefits listed above.

Suppose you are a still-serving member of the Canadian Armed Forces or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. In that case, you will typically receive your card after your release from service as these benefits will be provided by your home organization, not by VAC.

Types of ostomies covered:

• Surgery that has resulted in a permanent or temporary (no time limit) functioning colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy

When a health professional has prescribed a benefit that appears on the benefit grids, this is generally sufficient evidence for a decision-maker to approve the benefit. You can find more info in the Medical Supplies Policy.

It is often more convenient to choose a provider already registered with Medavie Blue Cross. Most registered providers can submit claims electronically on your behalf using Medavie Blue Cross’s ePay service. Having your provider take care of your claims is not only the easiest way to submit, but it also limits your out-of-pocket expenses. Please contact Veteran Affairs or use your Medavie Blue Cross account to find registered providers in your area.

If you purchase through another provider, you may have to pay them for their services and then seek reimbursement from VAC within 18 months of the purchase date.

Please note: VAC may not be able to reimburse the cost of services you purchased before having pre-authorization.