Finding Low- or No-Cost Treatment Options

Many programs have eligibility criteria such as age, income, or type of arthritis, or require a referral from a member of your healthcare team. It’s important to know which options might be best for you, if you qualify, and how to access programs and services that are available to you.

Some practitioners may offer treatment on a sliding fee scale to make their services more affordable to people and based on income rather than a set rate. Others may offer ‘pay-what-you-can’ or ‘community hours’, when services are provided at a reduced rate. If cost is a concern for you, consider reaching out to practitioners in your area to learn if any reduced rate programs are available.

If you have benefits through your employer or other group or private insurance provider, your plan may cover some or all of the costs of extended healthcare or complementary therapy. Check with your benefits provider to see if the services you wish to use are eligible for cost coverage.

Many of these services can also be claimed as a medical expense on your income tax return.

GLA:D™ Program 

The GLA:D™ Program is an evidence-based exercise program originally developed in Denmark that places an emphasis on education and exercise to help manage pain and symptoms of hip or knee osteoarthritis.

The program is available in various locations across Canada; however, the cost may vary depending on your location, as each clinic sets their own price.

To learn more about this program in Canada, and to find a clinic location near you that offers GLA:D™, visit www.gladcanada.ca.

If the cost to participate is too high in your area, consider asking the clinic if they offer a sliding scale or fee adjustments. You may also still find benefit from the resources available on the GLA:D™ website, including occasional free interactive web-based sessions featuring different topics.  

Wellness Together Canada  

Wellness Together Canada is a program sponsored by the Canadian government to provide free mental health and substance use support.  

Canadian Mental Health Association

The Canadian Mental Health Association offers free online courses on a variety of topics related to mental health.  

BounceBack^® – Canadian Mental Health Association 

BounceBack^® is a free skill-building program from the Canadian Mental Health Association designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Working with workbooks and a trained coach to guide you and encourage you to reflect, BounceBack^® can help you build skills to improve your mental health. 

Bridge the gapp 

Bridge the gapp is an online portal designed to connect youth and adults with guidance and supports for mental health and addictions. This portal offers self-help resources, links to local services, and allows the user to share their own personal stories. 

Yoga 

Yoga is often recommended for people living with arthritis as a low-impact activity. Check with your healthcare provider first to ensure it is a safe activity for you. Some yoga studios offer ‘karma classes’ at a pay-what-you-can or reduced rate during specific times each week. Contact your local yoga studio to find out if they offer reduced-rate classes. You can also find many free yoga videos online.  

ABC Health Matters  

ABC Health Matters empowers Canadians to manage their health more effectively by increasing their confidence when talking about and making decisions regarding health issues with family, friends and health professionals. Through the program, adults develop a deeper understanding of how to advocate for their health and the health of loved ones and better understand how to access healthcare.  

Home and Community Healthcare Programs 

Some individuals may be eligible for in-home or community services. 

Services delivered in the home can help people with minor health problems and disabilities as well as those who need intensive and sophisticated services and equipment. Home care services may include: nursing; personal care such as help with bathing, dressing, and feeding; physiotherapy; occupational therapy; speech therapy; social work; dietitian services; homemaking; and respite services. 

Other services may be available in your community, such as meal services, or friendly visitor programs.