In this post, we’ll show you how compression socks and stockings are commonly covered by private insurance in Canada, what paperwork is often required, and what to ask your insurer so your claim goes smoothly.
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Insurers often separate medical-grade compression from general “support” products. In many cases, medical-grade means the compression is measured and labeled in mmHg (for example: 15–20, 20–30, 30–40). The best way to avoid frustration is to confirm what your plan considers eligible — and what must appear on the receipt.
Compression is commonly prescribed (and often claimed) for conditions such as varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, leg swelling/edema, lymphedema, and post-thrombotic symptoms (after a blood clot). Coverage is still plan-dependent, and some insurers may require a prescription and/or specific wording to match the benefit category.
These are examples, not guarantees — your exact design can vary. Confirm with your insurer before purchase to avoid surprises.
For many insurers, “medical-grade” typically means the compression level is clearly stated in mmHg (for example: 15–20, 20–30, 30–40) and the product is treated as a medical compression garment for benefits purposes.
Some medical compression brands also label garments using compression classes (for example: Class I / CCL I, Class II / CCL II, Class III / CCL III). In many cases, 20–30 mmHg corresponds to Class I or II depending on the standard used, and 30–40 mmHg often aligns with higher classes. Insurers typically focus on the mmHg value, but class labeling may appear on packaging from recognized medical manufacturers.
In practice, medical-grade compression also tends to be graduated (stronger at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg) and made, tested, and labeled to recognized measurement and manufacturing standards so the stated mmHg level is consistent and reliable. That combination—clear mmHg + a standardized, graduated compression profile—is often what insurers expect when they reimburse “medical compression stockings.”
... that combination — clear mmHg + a standardized, graduated compression profile — is often what insurers expect when they reimburse “medical compression stockings.” For more about how compression class systems work across regions, see Compression sock ratings explained.
Many insurers expect compression garments to come from established medical compression manufacturers that produce standardized, graduated products with clearly labeled mmHg levels. Examples of widely recognized medical brands in Canada include Medi, Bauerfeind, Sigvaris, Jobst, and Juzo.
Many Canadian private insurance plans require a prescription for compression garments—especially for 20–30 mmHg and above. Some plans may not require a prescription for 15–20 mmHg, while others still do. If you’re unsure, confirm your plan’s rule first, then keep the prescription ready for your claim submission.
If your plan requires a prescription, it often helps when the prescription includes: “medical compression stockings/garment,” the compression level (mmHg), and (depending on the insurer) a clinical reason or diagnosis.
Here’s a simple way to submit your claim with minimal back-and-forth. The key is confirming what your insurer requires before you submit (prescription rules, receipt details, and the correct category in their portal).
Confirm eligibility
Ask if “compression stockings/garments” are covered on your plan, whether pre-authorization or prior approval is required, and what documents are needed.
Confirm prescription requirements
Ask whether a prescription is required for 15–20, 20–30, and 30–40 mmHg on your plan.
Purchase medical-grade compression
Choose a medical-grade mmHg product that matches your clinician’s guidance and your plan’s rules.
Save your receipt and paperwork
Keep the itemized receipt and prescription together so you can upload them quickly.
Submit using the correct category
Use the benefit category your insurer recommends (this prevents rejections for “wrong category”).
Keep copies for future claims
Saving your docs makes repeat claims faster (many people purchase compression more than once per year).
If your insurer requests additional details after you submit, OrthoMed can help you respond via Ask Our Healthcare Team.
Before you submit a claim, confirm exactly what your insurer needs for “compression stockings/garments.” This prevents re-submissions and helps you choose the right mmHg level and documentation.
Many Canadians have benefits through large insurers. Examples include:
The exact rules depend on your plan (and sometimes employer benefit design), so use the questions above to confirm requirements.
OrthoMed receipts
OrthoMed provides itemized receipts and documentation that align with what most plans request.
If you need help preparing documentation, contact our team via Ask Our Healthcare Team.
Private/employer insurance is usually the most common route for reimbursement — but some people also have other options depending on their province, eligibility, or benefit setup.
If you’re unsure which route applies to you, start with your insurer/administrator and ask which category they want compression garments submitted under.
Denials often happen because documentation is incomplete or because the insurer can’t confirm what was purchased. This is why it matters to confirm whether your plan requires mmHg on the receipt and whether a prescription is needed.
Public coverage varies by province and by program. Many people find private/employer insurance is the most common route for reimbursement of compression garments, but eligibility is always plan-dependent.
Is 15–20 mmHg eligible for insurance reimbursement?
Sometimes — but it’s the most inconsistent range. Some plans reimburse 15–20 mmHg, while others classify it as “support” rather than medical compression (or require stricter documentation). If you’re planning to claim 15–20, it’s worth confirming eligibility before you purchase.
Are 20–30 mmHg socks more likely to be covered than 15–20 mmHg?
Often, yes—but not always. Many plans reimburse medical-grade compression more consistently at 20–30 mmHg and above, while 15–20 mmHg rules vary more. The best approach is to ask your insurer which mmHg ranges are eligible on your plan.
What should be on my receipt for insurance reimbursement?
Ideally: vendor name, purchase date, item description, quantity, price paid, taxes, and the compression level (mmHg) if your insurer requires it. Some insurers also want “medical compression stockings/garment” wording and may ask for garment style/length.
Can I buy during a sale and still submit to insurance?
Usually yes—insurance typically reimburses based on the amount you paid (subject to your plan’s limits and rules). Keep the itemized receipt and required documentation.
How many pairs per year are covered?
Plan-dependent. Some plans cover a dollar amount per year, others set a maximum number of garments/pairs, and some combine both. Your insurer can confirm your exact limit.
Who can write the prescription for compression garments?
Many plans accept prescriptions from a physician or nurse practitioner. Some plans may accept prescriptions from other regulated health professionals depending on the insurer and benefit design. Ask your insurer which prescribers they accept for compression garments.
What if I don’t have private insurance coverage?
Some people have other reimbursement routes, such as a Health Spending Account (HSA) through work, or certain public/eligibility-based programs. Coverage rules can depend on your province and your situation, so confirm the correct category and documentation requirements with your administrator.
Do you offer direct billing for compression garments?
Yes. OrthoMed can direct bill for many private insurers and for eligible government/eligibility-based programs when direct billing is supported under that plan. Coverage rules and authorization requirements vary, so we recommend confirming eligibility in advance. If you’d like us to check your plan, contact us via Ask Our Healthcare Team.
How long should compression socks last for insurance purposes?
That depends on wear and care. Compression garments lose effectiveness over time; generally many insurers expect replacement within a year or as clinically indicated. For guidance on when compression socks are no longer working effectively, see Are your compression socks still working?.
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