*A doctor’s prescription is not required in order to purchase intermittent catheters in Canada. However, you may need a signed document from your doctor in order to access funding or reimbursement from some coverage programs or providers.
It is important that you get the intermittent catheter that best meets your specific medical needs. An intermittent catheter that is both comfortable and convenient to use can help you to maintain the intermittent catheterization regimen prescribed by your healthcare provider. Adhering to that prescribed regimen can be vital for your overall bladder and quality of life.
Catheter funding in Canada can be complex and depends on several factors, such as the province you live in and the reason for which you need to catheterize. In addition to helping you find the catheter that is best for you, the Coloplast® Care team can assist you in navigating the reimbursement and funding landscape in your province and help you find a supplier to meet your needs.
Here are the steps on how to get your catheters:
Step 1: Choosing your intermittent catheter
Once your clinician has recommended that you begin using intermittent catheters to manage your bladder, we suggest that you reach out to our Coloplast Care team at 1-866-293-6349, or, via email at casupport@coloplast.com. The Care team can help you start exploring product options and provide some free samples* for you to trial.
As you decide which catheter works best for you, it is advised that you discuss product options with your clinician as well, as they will be able to make recommendations based on your specific medical needs.
Step 2: Navigating reimbursement and locating a place to purchase
There are a lot of options when it comes to choosing an intermittent catheter. Your healthcare provider will help you with determine what features meet your medical needs; other qualities will be up to your personal preference. Whatever your preferences are, we know that cost can be a barrier when it comes to choosing a catheter. We have a team here dedicated to assisting you in navigating this complicated system and working with you to explore all your options. A Coloplast Care advisor can help you find the catheter that fits best into your lifestyle.
Our Coloplast Care Advisors can also assist you in finding a place to purchase your catheters. We know that flexibility and availability are key to building a relationship with a medical supplier. Whether you prefer buying online or enjoy the personal touch of visiting a brick and mortar location, we work with medical suppliers across the country who can support you in your continuing journey as a catheter user.
Some medical suppliers will offer direct billing to your insurance or provincial medical plan. This means:
- The medical supplier will fulfill your order and file a claim on your behalf.
- Your provider will allow a certain amount of money for each product unit purchased based on your unique plan. You may also be limited to a certain quantity of products under your unique plan.
- Depending on your insurance, you may be responsible for part of the purchase total. You may also need to purchase more product than your reimbursement typically funds.
Let your Coloplast Care advisor know if a supplier that offers direct billing would work best for you.
Step 3: Receiving your products
Once you have ordered your product, the medical supplier then ships the intermittent catheters to your home. Alternatively, you may have purchased your catheters in store. Review your order upon receipt to ensure you have received the correct product. If anything in your order was not what you expected, please reach out to your supplier, or connect with us right away and we can help to liaise on your behalf. Your supplier should provide a receipt for your order either at purchase or on delivery. If you have insurance coverage or qualify for a provincial / federal program, you may need to submit this receipt as part of your claim.
The Coloplast Care team is always willing to support or lend a hand. If you require support with your purchasing or reimbursement process, please connect with us at 1 866 293 6349 or, email us at casupport@coloplast.com
Step 4: Re-evaluating intermittent catheter options/needs
Over time, your intermittent catheter requirements might change. If you experience frequent urinary tract infections or difficulty advancing your intermittent catheter through the urethra and into your bladder, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. They will discuss the problem with you and address the issue accordingly. In some instances, it may be determined that a different intermittent catheter type could help.
- Hydrophilic, ready-to-use catheter solutions are sometimes suggested for individuals that experience frequent urinary tract infections.
- Coudé tip intermittent catheters are frequently recommended for individuals who experience difficulty in advancing the catheter through the urethra and into the bladder.
NOTE: It is always a good idea to bring one of your intermittent catheters with you to your healthcare office visit. This helps remind the healthcare provider of what you are currently using and can help in the discussion of finding other options for you based on the issues you are experiencing.
Information from Coloplast Care is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice and should not be interpreted to contain treatment recommendations. You should rely on the healthcare professional who knows your individual history for personal medical advice and diagnosis.
*Limitations apply
