13.0 Medical surgical equipment and supplies benefits list

Effective date: September 27, 2024

The following Medical Supplies and Equipment (MS&E) list contains medical surgical items and services eligible under the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program for eligible First Nations and Inuit. Further you'll find information on coverage policies, item codes, requirements for prior approval and applicable recommended replacement guidelines.

Table of contents

13.1 General information

13.1.1 Benefit policies

General information common to all medical supplies and equipment (MS&E) can be found in the general policies.

13.1.2 Prescriber and provider requirements

Prescriptions or recommendations for coverage must be initiated by the health professionals identified as prescribers or recommenders of the specific item as listed in the tables. Items that are prescribed by prescribers/recommenders not recognized by NIHB will lead to denials or reversal of claims.

The following is a list of NIHB-recognized prescriber/recommender abbreviations found in this segment of the benefits list. Please refer to the prescriber section of the item tables below to identify the eligible prescriber/recommender of a specific item:

  • LPN/RPN — Licensed Practical Nurse/Registered Practical Nurse when within their scope of practice in their province/territory (renewals only)
  • MD — Physician
  • NP — Nurse Practitioner
  • NSWOC — Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence
  • (RN renewals only) — Registered Nurse (initial prescription required from MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C))
  • OT — Occupational Therapist
  • PT — Physiotherapist
  • RM — Registered Midwife
  • RN — Registered Nurse
  • WOCC(C) — Wound, Ostomy and Continence Certified (C)anada

The following is a list of NIHB-recognized provider abbreviations found in this segment of the benefits list. Please refer to the provider section of the item tables below to identify the eligible provider of a specific item:

  • GEN — Enrolled general MS&E or pharmacy provider
  • GEN-CCGF — Enrolled general MS&E or pharmacy provider with staff certified as a compression garment fitter

13.1.3 Prior approval requirements

General prior approval requirements can be found in the general policies.

To initiate the prior approval process, the Medical Surgical Prior Approval Form, found on the Express Scripts Canada NIHB provider and client website, must be completed in full and submitted to your NIHB regional office along with the following supporting documentation:

  • the prescription or recommendation or referral form signed by an NIHB-recognized prescriber for the requested benefit
  • detailed assessment as required
  • additional relevant information the provider, physician, nurse practitioner, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist may have to support the request
  • an explanation of benefits from any third-party coverage available to the client (for example, provincial plan, workers' compensation board, private insurance, education plan, etc.)

13.1.4 Exclusions

In addition to the general exclusion policy listed in the general policies, the following items are excluded from the medical surgical and equipment benefit and are not considered for coverage or appeal under the NIHB program:

  • environmental protection devices and supplies (for example, air cleaners, filters, UV protection garments and lotions, etc.)

13.1.5 Warranties

Providers must honour the manufacturer's warranty.

13.1.6 Repairs

Repairs that are not covered under the warranty are eligible for coverage when supported by proper documentation.

The following rules apply:

  • prior approval is required for repairs exceeding the NIHB price or frequency
  • request must include detailed cost breakdown of parts, labour time and rates
  • repairs must have a minimum warranty of 90 days

A description of all repairs with dates, detailed cost breakdown of parts, labour time and rates must be kept on file for each client.

Note: The NIHB program will not cover the labour cost for repairs that are covered under the warranty.

13.1.7 Replacement requirements

Recommended replacement guidelines indicate the quantity and frequency at which a benefit item will be eligible for coverage. Recommended replacement guidelines are based on a client's customary medical needs and the typical device's lifespan.

Replacement is subject to the same process as the original purchase.

All replacement requests require a new prescription.

For more general information, please see section 1.12 Recommended replacement guidelines.

13.1.7.1 Early replacement requirements

Coverage requests for any early replacement require prior approval, a new prescription as well as documentation supporting the need for early replacement. The client must meet program and equipment specific eligibility criteria.

Early replacement of items may be considered when one of the following has occurred:

  • there is a substantial change in a client's medical condition and the item no longer meets the client's needs
  • the item is no longer functioning properly, has deteriorated during typical use and is no longer under warranty (where the cost of repair exceeds the cost of a new item)

The program will not cover the replacement of lost items, stolen items, or items that are damaged due to misuse or negligence.

13.1.8 Services included in the NIHB price

The following services must be included in the NIHB price to be considered for coverage:

  • product and parts ordering, and delivery from manufacturer to provider (including delivery costs, exchange rate)
  • dispensing of the benefit, which includes any required adjustments or fittings

13.1.9 Terminology

Item code

The item code is an 8-digit code that identifies the benefit being requested and is submitted to Express Scripts Canada for billing purposes.

Prior approval

A program coverage confirmation is issued by an NIHB regional office to a provider to ensure that the client is eligible for specific medical supplies and equipment benefits. The approval is issued primarily for items identified as requiring authorization before being billed to the program. All claims, including claims accompanied by prior approvals, are subject to claim verification.

Recommended replacement guidelines

The recommended replacement guidelines set a maximum number of each item a client may receive over a given period (frequency). Coverage of additional items may be considered on a case-by-case basis. For requests exceeding the recommended replacement guidelines, prior approval is required.

NIHB price

NIHB price information is listed in the MS&E price files, located on the Express Scripts Canada NIHB provider and client website.

When an NIHB price is established for an item, it must not be claimed by default. To be eligible for payment, providers must adhere to the NIHB program's terms and conditions set out in their MS&E provider billing agreement and submit eligible claim amounts in accordance to the MS&E claims submission and reimbursement policies.

13.2 Incontinence

NIHB provides coverage for incontinence items, which can be either one type of product or a combination of different products, that can be dispensed every 3 months.

The first time a client applies for prior approval for incontinence supplies, the prior approval form must indicate whether the client has a permanent or temporary need for incontinence supplies.

Clients who have a temporary condition may be approved for 3 months to 1 year of incontinence supplies at a time. Clients with a temporary condition will continue to require an annual prescription/recommendation and a new assessment with each renewal request.

Clients who have a permanent condition may be approved for up to 2 years of incontinence supplies rather than the standard 1 year. When a client has been approved for 2 years, the provider will receive a special authorization (SA) that allows the provider to bill Express Scripts Canada directly up to NIHB price without contacting the NIHB regional office to get approval, for dispenses within frequency and NIHB price during the approved period.

For requests that exceed the recommended replacement guideline, providers will need to apply for prior approval and provide a medical justification.

Note:

13.2.1 Diapers and liners

The following information is required when requesting coverage for diapers and liners:

  • prior approval form including items listed in section 13.1.3 Prior approval requirements
  • medical diagnosis that is the causes of the incontinence
  • type of incontinence (bladder, bowel, or both)
  • when the incontinence occurs (day and/or night)
  • type of incontinence supplies needed
  • size of the incontinence supplies requested (does not apply to children's sizes or liners)
  • quantity of incontinence supplies needed
  • other supporting information (for example, temporary or permanent condition)

If there is a substantial change in the client’s condition requiring a variation in frequency or a change in requested supplies, a new incontinence assessment should be submitted.

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401087 Diaper, pull-up, adult SM/MED MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 450 every 3 months  
99401088 Diaper, pull-up, adult LG or XL MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99401089 Diaper, pull-up, adult XXL+ MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99401090 Diaper, tab, adult SM or MED MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99401091 Diaper, tab, adult LG or XL MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99401092 Diaper, tab, adult XXL+ MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99400753 Diaper, pull-up, junior 4 & up MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 450 every 3 months Child over 2 years of age
99400940 Diaper, pull-up, youth/adult XS MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Child over 2 years of age
99400752 Diaper, tab, junior 4 & up MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Child over 2 years of age
99400939 Diaper, tab, youth/adult XS MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Child over 2 years of age
99400438 Liners, disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 450 every 3 months  
99400755 Pant, incontinence, brief mesh, reusable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 9 every 3 months  

13.2.2 Underpads

The following information is required when requesting coverage for underpads:

  • prior approval form including items listed in section 13.1.3 Prior approval requirements
  • type of incontinence supplies needed (washable or disposable underpads)
  • size of the incontinence supplies requested
  • quantity of incontinence supplies needed
  • incontinence only:
    • medical diagnosis that is the causes of the incontinence
    • type of incontinence (bladder, bowel, or both)
    • when the incontinence occurs (day and/or night)
    • other supporting information (for example, temporary or permanent condition)
  • ostomy only:
    • medical diagnosis / type of ostomy (for example, colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy)
    • other supporting information (for example, temporary or permanent condition)
  • wound care only:
    • diagnosis (wound type)
    • wound location and wound size
    • other supporting information (for example, frequency of dressing change per wound, wound irrigation needs)

If there is a substantial change in the client’s condition requiring a variation in frequency or a change in requested supplies, a new incontinence or ostomy assessment should be submitted.

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400442 Underpads, disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 150 every 3 months NIHB provides coverage for disposable underpads for regular bowel care routine, ostomy and wound care
99400443 Underpads, washable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 6 per year
  • size up to 36" x 54"
  • coverage may be provided for incontinence and ostomy care

13.2.3 Catheters

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400747 Catheter, adhesive strip, external MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    
99400418 Catheter, external male, disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 90 every 3 months  
99400419 Catheter, external male, reusable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    
99400420 Catheter, indwelling MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 4 every 3 months  
99400421 Catheter, intermittent, disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 360 every 3 months (over 360 items combined every 3 months requires prior approval)  
99401154 Catheter, intermittent, special MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  
99400423 Catheter, irrigation MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    
99400424 Catheter, plug MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    
99400425 Catheter, tray catheterization MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    
99400426 Catheter, tray irrigation MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    
99400417 Catheter, adaptor connector closure MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    
99400429 Drainage, leg bag, reusable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 4 per year  
99400428 Drainage, night bag, disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 52 per year  
99400434 Extension tubing MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 52 per year  
99400430 Leg bag without tubing disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 52 per year  
99400431 Leg bag with tubing disposable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 52 per year  
99400427 Leg strap for drainable bags MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 52 per year  
99400435 Lubricating jelly tube MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 12 every 3 months 114g tube
99400919 Lubricating jelly/packet, single use MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 400 every 3 months Packet size: 2.7g – 5g
99400433 Night bottle, reusable MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 4 per year  

13.2.4 Devices

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400941 Pessary MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN - renewals only) GEN No 1 every 6 months  

13.3 Ostomy

13.3.1 One-piece pouch

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400730 Convex flange with drainable colostomy/ileostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  
99400906 Convex flange with closed-end colostomy/ileostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 120 every 3 months  
99400732 Convex flange with drainable urostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  
99400905 Flat flange with closed-end colostomy/ileostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 120 every 3 months  
99400406 Flat flange with drainable colostomy/ileostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  
99400731 Flat flange with drainable urostomy pouch MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  

13.3.2 Two-piece pouch

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400414 Pouch, closed-end colostomy/ileostomy MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 120 every 3 months  
99400415 Pouch, drainable colostomy/ileostomy MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 30 every 3 months  
99400745 Pouch, drainable urostomy MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 30 every 3 months  
99400742 Flange, flat MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  
99400743 Flange, convex MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  

13.3.3 Ostomy supplies

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400409 Absorbent flake/capsule MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 2 per year Package of 90
99400763 Adaptor, connector, clamp ostomy/catheter MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 12 per year  
99400400 Belt, ostomy MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 3 per year  
99400401 Convex insert MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 30 every 3 months  
99400402 Filters MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 2 boxes of 50 per year  
99400403 Gel lubricant MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 12 per year  
99400884 Mouldable ring seal MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    
99400782 Mucus dispersant MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400404 Odor control product, concentrated MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 12 per year For inside pouch only
99400398 Ostomy, barrier powder MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 3 every 3 months  
99400737 Ostomy, irrigation kit MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 1 every 3 months  
99400738 Ostomy, irrigation sleeve MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 30 every 3 months  
99400739 Plastic faceplate MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 3 every 3 months  
99400783 Pouch cover MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 4 per year  
99400408 Skin barrier, paste MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes 3 every 3 months  
99400410 Skin barriers/wafer MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 50 every 3 months  
99400412 Stoma cone for irrigation MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 6 per year  

13.4 Wound care

Information required:

*A Wound Care Assessment Form is available on the Express Scripts Canada NIHB provider and client website. When completed and signed by an NIHB-recognized prescriber, this form can also be used as the prescription/recommendation for wound care supplies. Please note: if another wound assessment is submitted, the clinician must include the required assessment information.

13.4.1 Adhesive

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400446 Adhesive suture strips MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 50 per year  
99400444 Adhesive tape, hypoallergenic MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400445 Adhesive tape, non-hypoallergenic MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400447 Montgomery ties (1 set) MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No    

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

Adhesive tape and suture
  • Blenderm (3M Health Care)
  • cloth adhesive tape (3M Health Care)
  • cover strip (3M Health Care)
  • Durapore (3M Health Care)
  • Gentac (Medline)
  • Hypafix (Smith & Nephew)
  • kind removal silicone tape (3M Health Care)
  • Leukosan Strip (BSN Medical)
  • Leukoplast Sleek (BSN Medical)
  • Leukostrip (Smith & Nephew)
  • Medfix (Medline)
  • Medipore (3M Health Care)
  • Medipore H (3M Health Care)
  • Mefix (Mölnlycke)
  • Mepitac (Mölnlycke)
  • Micropore (3M Health Care)
  • pink zinc oxide tape (Medline)
  • Shur Strip - wound closure strips (Derma Science)
  • Steri-Strips (3M Medical)
  • Suture-Strip Plus (Derma Science)
  • Transpore (3M Health Care)
  • Ultrafix (Derma Science)
Montgomery ties
  • Montgomery Straps (Medline)
  • Montgomery Straps (Bioseal)
  • Montgomery Straps (Deroyal)

13.4.2 Alginates/hydrofibres/poly-absorbent fibres dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401155 Alginates/hydrofibres/poly-absorbent fibres dressing, 5 cm × 5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401156 Alginates/hydrofibres/poly-absorbent fibres dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99400454 Alginates/hydrofibres/poly-absorbent fibres dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Includes packing strips with alginate or hydrofibres. Please refer to section 13.4.15 Silver dressing for silver alginate packing strips (ribbons).

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Algicell Calcium Alginate (Derma Sciences)
  • Algisite M (Smith & Nephew)
  • Aquacel (ConvaTec)
  • Biatain Alginate (Coloplast)
  • Curasorb (Covidien Kendall)
  • Cutinova Hydro (Smith & Nephew)
  • Debrisan (Pharmacia & Upjohn)
  • Derma Calcium Alginate (Derma Science)
  • Exufiber (Mölnlycke)
  • Kaltostat (ConvaTec)
  • Maxorb II (Medline)
  • Melgisorb Plus (Mölnlycke)
  • Mesalt (Mölnlycke)
  • Nu-derm Alginate (Acelity)
  • Opticell (Medline)
  • Qwick (Medline)
  • Restore Calcium Alginate (Hollister)
  • Sorbsan (Pharma-Plast)
  • Sorbsan Plus (Pharma-Plast)
  • Sorbsan SA (Pharma-Plast)
  • Tegaderm High Gelling Alginate (3M Health Care)
  • Tegaderm High Integrity Alginate (3M Health Care)
  • UrgoClean (Urgo Medical)

13.4.3 Bandage

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400448 Conforming gauze bandages, "Kling" type, per roll MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400449 Elastic bandages MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 8 per year For compression bandages, please refer to section 13.4.4 Compression bandages
99400450 Impregnated venous ulcer bandage, roll MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No    
99400451 Tubular net dressing MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

Gauze bandages
  • Duform (Derma Sciences)
  • Dutex Conforming Bandages (Derma Sciences)
  • Easifix (BSN Medical)
  • Kerlix (Kendall Health care)
  • Kling (Johnson & Johnson)
Elastic bandages
  • Econo-san (BSN Medical)
  • Tensor
Impregnated venous ulcer bandage
  • Calaband (Seton Healthcare Group plc)
  • Gelocast (BSN Medical)
  • Icthopaste (Smith & Nephew)
  • Primer Unna Boot (Derma Sciences)
  • Unna-Z (Medline)
  • Viscopaste PB7 (Smith & Nephew)
  • Zipzoc (Smith & Nephew)
Tubular net dressing
  • Flexinet (Derma Science)
  • Medigrip (Medline)
  • Surgifix (Smith & Nephew)
  • Tubifast (Mölnlycke)

13.4.4 Compression bandages

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400805 Compression bandage, reusable, left MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 6 per year Light, moderate, or high compression
99400841 Compression bandage, reusable, right MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 6 per year Light, moderate, or high compression
99400839 Compression bandage, single use, left MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 24 per year Light, moderate, or high compression
99400840 Compression bandage, single use, right MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 24 per year Light, moderate, or high compression
99400842 Stockinette, reusable, for reusable compression bandage, left and right MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 12 per year  
99400798 Padding, single use, for reusable compression bandage, left and right MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), (RN, LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes 48 per year  

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

Single-use compression bandage
  • Co-Plus (BSN Medical)
  • Coban (3M Health Care)
  • Duban Cohesive Bandages (Derma Sciences)
Reusable compression bandage
  • CircAid JuxtaFit
  • Dusor Elastic Bandage (Derma Sciences)
  • Elastocrepe (Smith & Nephew)
  • Elastogrip (BSN Medical)
  • Surgigrip (Smith & Nephew)
  • Tubigrip (Mölnlycke)
Stockinette
  • Tensogrip (BSN Medical)

13.4.5 Charcoal dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401157 Charcoal dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99400455 Charcoal dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Carbonet (Smith & Nephew)
  • Cliniflex (CliniMed)

13.4.6 Composite dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400811 Composite dressing MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Alldress (Mölnlycke)
  • Comfeel Plus Hydrocolloid Combined With Alginate (Coloplast)
  • Compdress (Derma Sciences)
  • Combiderm (ConvaTec)
  • Dudress (Derma Sciences)
  • Exu-Dry (Smith & Nephew)
  • Leukomed (BSN Medical)
  • Mesorb (Mölnlycke)
  • Mextra Superabsorbent (Mölnlycke)
  • Opsite Post-op (Smith & Nephew)
  • Stratasorb (Medline)
  • Tegaderm + Pad (3M Health Care)
  • XTRASORB (Derma Science)

13.4.7 Eye

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400466 Eye pad, per box MD, NP, RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400467 Eye shield MD, NP, RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    

13.4.8 Foam adhesive dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401158 Foam non-adhesive dressing, 5 cm × 5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401159 Foam non-adhesive dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99401160 Foam adhesive dressing, 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99401161 Foam adhesive dressing, 12.5 cm × 12.5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99400456 Foam dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Includes packing strips with foam

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Allevyn (Smith & Nephew)
  • Allevyn Gentle Border (Smith & Nephew)
  • Aquacel Foam (ConvaTec)
  • Biatain (Coloplast)
  • Biatain IBU (Coloplast)
  • Biatain Silicone (adhesive) (Coloplast)
  • Cutimed Cavity (BSN Medical)
  • Cutimed Siltec (BSN Medical)
  • Hydrofera Blue Foam Dressing (Hollister) *coverage limited to 6 months
  • Hydrocell (Derma Sciences)
  • Kendall AMD Antimicrobial Foam Border (Covidien Kendall)
  • Kendall Foam Dressing (Covidien Kendall)
  • Lyofoam (Seton Health Care Group)
  • Mepilex (Mölnlycke)
  • Mepilex Transfer (Mölnlycke)
  • Mepilex Border Post-op (Mölnlycke)
  • Microfoam (3M Health Care)
  • Optifoam (Medline)
  • Polymem (Ferris Mfg Corp)
  • Restore Foam Dressing (Hollister)
  • Tegaderm High Performance Foam Adhesive Dressing (3M Health Care)
  • Tegaderm High Performance Foam Non-adhesive Dressing (3M Health Care)
  • Tegaderm Silicone Foam Boarder Dressing (3M Health Care)
  • Tielle (Acelity)

13.4.9 Gauze

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400457 Sterile gauze, abdominal pad dressing MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400196 Gauze, non-sterile dressing, 5 cm × 5 cm, (2 in × 2 in), per box MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400756 Gauze, non-sterile dressing, 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm, (3 in × 3 in), per box MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400458 Gauze, non-sterile dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm, (4 in × 4 in), per box MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400757 Gauze, non-sterile dressing, 6 cm × 8 cm (2.36 in × 3.14 in), per box MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400459 Gauze, sterile dressing, 5 cm × 5 cm, (2 in × 2 in), each MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400759 Gauze, sterile dressing, 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm, (3 in × 3 in), each MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400760 Gauze, sterile dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm, (4 in × 4 in), each MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No    
99400468 Packing strip, regular, gauze MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 40 bottles per year This code must only be used for regular gauze packing strips. To request the following types of packing strips, please refer to the appropriate item code and submit a Medical Surgical Prior Approval Form found on the Express Scripts Canada NIHB provider and client website:

13.4.10 Gel dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401162 Gels/hydrogels dressing, 8 g MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 20 items per year (over 20 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401163 Gels/hydrogels dressing, 15 g MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99401164 Gels/hydrogels dressing, 25 g MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99400460 Gels/hydrogels, dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes  

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Curafil (including Curagel Hydrogel Impregnated Gauze) (Covidien Kendall)
  • Cutimed Gel (BSN Medical)
  • Duoderm Hydroactive Gel (ConvaTec)
  • Granugel (ConvaTec)
  • Hypergel (Mölnlycke)
  • INTRASITE Gel (Smith & Nephew)
  • INTRASITE Comformable (Smith & Nephew)
  • Normlgel (Mölnlycke)
  • NU-GEL Hydrogel (Acelity)
  • Purilon (Coloplast)
  • Restore Hydrogel Dressing (Hollister)
  • Skintegrity Gel (Medline)
  • Spenco 2nd Skin (Spenco Medical)
  • Tegaderm Hydrogel Wound Filler (3M Health Care)
  • Tegagel (3M Health Care)
  • Tenderwet (Medline)

13.4.11 Honey dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400901 Honey dressing MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes    

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • MEDIHONEY (Derma Sciences)
  • TheraHoney (Medline)

13.4.12 Hydrocolloid dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401165 Hydrocolloid dressing, std, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401166 Hydrocolloid dressing, extra thin dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99400461 Hydrocolloid dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes  

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Comfeel Plus Hydrocolloid Combined With Alginate (Coloplast)
  • Comfeel Plus Transparent Hydrocolloid (Coloplast)
  • DuoDERM (includes DuoDERM Extra Thin and DuoDERM Signal) (ConvaTec)
  • Exuderm Satin Hydrocolloid (Medline)
  • Granuflex (ConvaTec)
  • NU-DERM Hydrocolloid (Acelity)
  • Primacol (Derma Sciences)
  • Restore Hydrocolloid Dressing (Hollister)
  • Tegaderm Hydrocolloid (3M Health Care)
  • Ultec (including Ultec Pro) (Covidien)

13.4.13 Iodine dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401180 Iodine gel (ointment), 10g tube MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 10 items per year (over 10 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401181 Iodine dressing (5g) dressing, 4 cm × 6 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99400810 Iodine dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Includes packing strips with iodine

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Inadine (Acelity)
  • Iodoflex (Smith & Nephew)
  • Iodosorb paste & ointment (Smith & Nephew)

13.4.14 Non-adherent dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401167 Non-adherent impregnated petroleum dressing, 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 50 items per year (over 50 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401168 Non-adherent impregnated petroleum dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99401169 Non-adherent impregnated petroleum dressing, 7.5 cm × 20 cm - 3 strips MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99401170 Non-adherent impregnated chlorhexidine dressing, 5 cm × 5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401171 Non-adherent impregnated chlorhexidine dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99400462 Non-adherent impregnated dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes Includes impregnated packing strips
99401172 Non-adherent non-impregnated dressing, 6 cm × 7 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 60 items per year (over 60 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401173 Non-adherent non-impregnated dressing, 9 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99400463 Non-adherent non-impregnated dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes  

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

Non-adherent impregnated dressing
  • Adaptic (Acelity)
  • Bactigras (Smith & Nephew)
  • Chlorhexitulle (Hoechst Morio Roussell)
  • Curad Sterile Oil Emulsion Gauze (Medline)
  • Cuticell (including Cuticell Classic) (BSN Medical)
  • Jelonet (Smith & Nephew)
  • petrolatum gauze
  • Serotulle (Leo Laboratories)
  • Shur-Conform (Derma Sciences)
  • Unitulle (Hoechst Marion Roussel)
  • Versatel (Medline)
Non-adherent non-impregnated dressing
  • Adaptic Digit (Acelity)
  • Adaptic Touch (Acelity)
  • Cuticell Contact (BSN Medical)
  • Medipore + Pad - soft cloth adhesive (3M Health Care)
  • Melolin (Smith & Nephew)
  • Mepitel (Mölnlycke)
  • Mepore (Mölnlycke)
  • Primapad (Derma Sciences)
  • Primapore (Smith & Nephew)
  • Restore Contact Layer (Hollister)
  • Tegaderm Contact Layer (3M Health Care)
  • Tegapore (3M Health Care)
  • Telfa (Covidien-Kendall)

13.4.15 Silver dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401182 Silver alginate dressing, 10 cm × 10 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No 20 items per year (over 20 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401178 Silver alginate ribbon, 1.9 cm × 45.7 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99401177 Silver alginate ribbon, 1 cm × 45.7 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99401179 Silver alginate ribbon, 2.5 cm × 30.5 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN No  
99400809 Silver dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, (LPN/RPN - renewals only) GEN Yes Includes silver alginate ribbon (packing strip) with a size other than the ones listed above

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Acticoat 7 (Smith & Nephew)
  • Actisorb (Acelity)
  • Algicell Ag (Derma Sciences)
  • Allevyn Ag (Smith & Nephew)
  • Aquacel Ag (ConvaTec)
  • Arglaes Powder (Medline)
  • Biatain Ag (Coloplast)
  • Interdry Ag (Coloplast)
  • Maxorb Extra Ag (Medline)
  • Melgisorb Ag (Mölnlycke)
  • Mepilex Ag (Mölnlycke)
  • Opticell Ag (Medline)
  • Optifoam Ag (Medline)
  • PolyMem Silver (Ferris Mfg Corp)
  • Restore Calcium Alginate With Silver (Hollister)
  • Restore Contact Layer With Silver (Hollister)
  • Restore Foam Dressing With Silver (Hollister)
  • Silvercel (including Silvercel Non Adherent) (Acelity)
  • Sorbsan Silver (Pharma-Plast)
  • Tegaderm Ag Mesh (3M Health Care)
  • Tegaderm Alginate Ag (3M Health Care)

13.4.16 Transparent dressing

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99401174 Transparent dressing, 6 cm × 7 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 30 items per year (over 30 items combined per year requires prior approval)  
99401175 Transparent dressing, 10 cm × 12 cm MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No  
99400464 Transparent film adhesive dressing - other MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes  
99400465 Transparent film dressing, spray MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    

NIHB does not cover any specific brand of dressing and the list below is not exhaustive. The items listed are examples of dressings that may be considered for coverage in this category.

Brand examples

  • Bioclusive Plus (Acelity)
  • Hypafix Transparent (BSN Medical)
  • IV3000 (Smith & Nephew)
  • Leukomed T (BSN Medical)
  • Mepitel Film (Mölnlycke)
  • Opsite - all sizes (Smith & Nephew)
  • Opsite Spray (Smith & Nephew)
  • Polyskin (Covidien)
  • Suresite (Medline)
  • Tegaderm Absorbent Acrylic Clear Dressing (3M Health Care)
  • Tegaderm Transparent Film (3M Health Care)

13.5 Supplies

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400476 Adhesive remover, 50 wipes per box or 50ml per bottle MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 6 boxes per year For the long-term use of adhesives (for example, ostomy supplies, dressings, tape)
99400764 Sterile dressing tray MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN Yes    
99401370 Latex gloves, 100/bx MD, NP, RM, RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 12 per year The program provides coverage for a box of 100 gloves only. Requests for quantities of less than a box of 100 gloves are not eligible.
99401369 Vinyl gloves, 100/bx MD, NP, RM, RN, LPN/RPN GEN No
99400319 Irrigation solution (pour bottle, per 100ml) MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, RM, LPN/RPN GEN No   Pour bottle quantities should be requested per 100 mL (example: a quantity of 2 should be requested for a 200ml bottle while a quantity of 5 should be requested for a 500ml bottle)
99400320 Irrigation syringe, 60cc MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, RM, LPN/RPN GEN No 52 per year  
99400411 Protective skin wipes/spray MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No 4 per year  
99400469 Sterile saline (pour bottle, per 100ml) MD, NP, NSWOC, WOCC(C), RN, LPN/RPN GEN No   Pour bottle quantities should be requested per 100 mL (example: a quantity of 2 should be requested for a 200ml bottle while a quantity of 5 should be requested for a 500ml bottle)
99400818 Other recycled MS&E items MD, NP, OT, PT GEN Yes    

13.6 Servicing

13.6.1 Delivery

Item code Item name Prescriber Provider Prior approval required Recommended replacement guidelines Additional details
99400820 Delivery, incontinence item     Yes    
99401269 Delivery, medical surgical     Yes    

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