Orthotic Shoes and Devices Program

This program provides assistance for obtaining custom orthotic devices, shoes, and overshoes.

Individuals are entitled to two pairs of shoes at the time of their first request. For people under the age of 18, two pairs of shoes can also be assigned and replaced as their feet grow.

This program helps people with severe mobility issues obtain shoes and orthotics. These people are unable to walk without the use of these technical aids.

Allocation of these technical aids is based on an overall assessment of the person’s needs and resources.

The expression “orthotic shoe” refers to:

• A moulded or adapted shoe or overshoe (this may also include a sandal or boot);
• An apparatus applied to shoes;
• A combination of shoes and appliance(s).

Appliances are applied all over the foot to correct and compensate mobility issues. They can include some optional components, such as padding, sheepskin lining, and toecaps.

To be eligible for this program, you must:

• Live in Québec;
• Present abnormalities, traumatic or pathological sequelae, or secondary deformities linked to a disease in the foot-ankle joint;
• Have a permanent inability to walk, ranging from severe to very severe, which can only be compensated by the daily use of an orthotic shoe.

You are not eligible if you:

• Already benefit for the same type of assistance provided by another national or federal program or a program offered by private insurers;
• Live in a residential long-term care centre or a public intermediate resource.

A $75 deductible is applicable when purchasing custom-made shoes. The deductible does not apply in the event that the recommendation is simply to adapt a purchased shoe to meet the person’s needs.

If the person has private insurance coverage or social assistance, this program can be used to pay for the uncovered portion of the costs.

To enrol in this program, contact your Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS) or your Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre (CIUSSS). For contact information, consult the following page: Finding Your Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS) or Your Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre (CIUSSS) .

You will need to provide a medical certificate relating to the physical impairment.

For assistance, contact the Office des personnes handicapées du Québec .