Living with lymphedema affects people with varying degrees. Among the recommended treatments are bandages and compression garments. If there is still a long way to go to support those affected, we can welcome the improvement in the program associated with the supplies necessary for the treatment of lymphedema.
How to recognize lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a malfunction of the lymphatic system that often manifests as a feeling of swelling or heaviness, less flexibility in movement, sudden or gradual swelling. You can notice a hard, tight skin, which marks easily under pressure, which is accompanied by severe pain. You may also have difficulty putting your limbs on in your clothes. Lymphedema can be primary in nature, which is therefore present at birth, or secondary, which occurs at adulthood naturally or following a trauma, such as breast cancer for example. If in doubt, it is very important consult a doctor.
RAMQ’s reimbursement program
1. Greater accessibility for lymphedema garments
Anyone who has been diagnosed with lymphedema by a doctor is now covered by the Quebec public health insurance plan (RAMQ).
2. Adults: Up to 75% reimbursement
The new version of this program allows reimbursement at 75% of the purchase cost for people aged 18 and over. And this, up to the maximum amount established. Thus, the maximum number allocated to 18 years and over for 12 months has increased to:
- 1 set of multi-layer bandages
- 3 elastic day compression garments
- 1 non-elastic compression garment
- 1 night compression garment
- 1 accessory for compression garment
3. Children: 100% reimbursement for lymphedema garment
For those under the age of 18 – and for recipients of the Aim for Employment Program or Social Assistance Program – refund now reaches 100% of the cost of purchase, up to the maximum amount established. In addition, the number of supplies allocated for children each year continues to double and they will no longer have to wait 6 months between 2 purchases.
To see all the details of the enhanced program, click here.
4. How to proceed?
For each member with lymphedema, you must obtain a medical prescription clearly indicating:
- The diagnosis of lymphedema
- The affected side (s) (right or left)
- The affected limb (s) (upper or lower)
5. Pay only the difference
Prescription in hand, just visit your compression clothing supplier. Among providers who have signed an agreement with the RAMQ, such as CEO Médic, the latter reimburses the portion covered by the program.
The professionals at CEO Médic have the biggest brands of compression products. They can guide you to the most appropriate type of clothing, such as a flat knit, for example.
Contact us for more information or to take an appointment.
