Finding an Equipment Supplier

Island Health cannot endorse, guarantee, or recommend a specific private or commercial business. You should be prepared to do your own research to find a supplier for your medical equipment. Consider checking the Better Business Bureau for the history of a supplier, vendor, or contractor and compare any quotes you get.

If you have equipment funding, such as extended health, you may need to follow a specific process or buy from an approved supplier. Visit our Funding Programs webpage for more information.

Medical equipment and supplies may be available from:

  • Local lending services
  • Canadian Red Cross Equipment Loan Program
  • Local buy and sell sites
  • Local businesses or private suppliers that sell or rent medical equipment
  • Local thrift stores, which sometimes carry small mobility or safety items
Private Suppliers

Disclaimer: Island Health does not endorse nor recommend any third party listed here, nor does Island Health take any responsibility for any goods or services provided by any third party listed here. In no event shall Island Health be liable to you for any loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred directly or indirectly as a result of renting, purchasing, or using medical equipment from the vendors listed below. It is the responsibility of the client or their legal representative to research the best option for them and to not rely on the sources listed here. By accessing and using this resource, you agree to be bound by this disclaimer and limitation of liability.

Private suppliers list (PDF)

Local loan cupboards list (PDF) - coming

Finding Suppliers Online

You can also look for suppliers or rental options using search engines or service directories.

Search engine examples: Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo

  • Describe what you need in the search bar (e.g., “medical equipment supplier” or the name of the equipment you need)
  • Add your community name to narrow results (e.g., “medical equipment supplier Nanaimo”)

Online service directories:

Buy and sell sites:

Tips to Choose Equipment Safely

You may benefit from an assessment by a health professional. This could be a GP, NP, occupational therapist, physical therapist, or nurse who can help assess your needs.

Selecting Equipment That Fits You

  • Check that the equipment fits your height, weight, and mobility needs
  • Look for adjustable features (handles, seat height, wheels)
  • Ask a healthcare provider if you’re unsure what type you need
  • Ensure second-hand equipment is clean and in good working order

Staff Experience

  • What is the knowledge and qualifications of staff in working with the type of equipment you want to buy or have installed?
  • Do they have previous experience working with others with similar equipment needs?
  • Do they provide quotes? (See Protect Yourself – Get it in Writing! from the Government of Canada).

Equipment Trials & Pricing:

  • Can they provide equipment for an in-home trial? If so, how long will it take for the trial equipment to be available, and how long can I borrow the equipment for trial?
  • If needed, can they do custom work?
  • Once they have provided you with a final quote, will there be any extra charges?
  • What is their billing process? Can you pay by installments?

Ongoing service and support:

  • What is their return policy if the equipment you initially selected doesn’t meet your need?
  • What do they offer in terms of maintenance, extended warranties, and replacement of equipment?
  • Are there extra costs for service or maintenance? If so, how much will they be?
  • What hours and days are they open? Do they have a number to call if you need equipment service outside of these hours, and is there a fee for this service?

Additional Resources for Home Adaptations:

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