If:

• you are receiving Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) Income Support, and
• you and your family spend $15 or more a month on medical transportation

then you may be able to get help to cover these costs under the Mandatory Special Necessities benefit.

What medical transportation costs are covered?

Under the ODSP, medical transportation costs for travel to and from a medical appointment with an approved healthcare professional such as a family doctor, optometrist or dentist are covered.

If you are attending mental health therapy, mental health counselling, or drug or alcohol recovery groups, the cost of transportation may also be covered under the Mandatory Special Necessities benefit. To find out if you are eligible for help with these transportation costs, please contact your ODSP worker.

What if I have a health emergency and need immediate medical attention?

Normally, you have to apply for the benefit in advance. However, if you were unable to apply in advance and you had to pay to get to emergency medical care, you may be able to get those transportation costs covered. Keep your receipts and show them to your worker.

How do I get the Mandatory Special Necessities benefit?

Contact your local ODSP office and ask for a Mandatory Special Necessities benefit request form.

Take this form to your family doctor's or healthcare professional's office and ask to have it filled in.

Here are some examples of healthcare professionals who can fill out the Mandatory Special Necessities form:

• your family doctor or another physician
• a registered nurse in the extended class
• a psychologist if you are receiving addiction related treatment.

Once the form is filled in, return it to your local ODSP office either in person or by mail. We will review your form and send you a letter to tell you if you have been approved.