How much does a Durolane injection cost in Toronto?

Is viscosupplementation covered by OHIP?

Seeing the rheumatologist for assessment is billed to OHIP in the usual way, with a referral. The Durolane product itself is not an OHIP benefit, which is why there is a fee. You may also hear these called gel injections or hyaluronic acid injections; insurers usually use the term viscosupplementation.

Will my extended health plan cover it?

Many workplace and private plans cover viscosupplementation, usually under extended health benefits or drug benefits, and usually with a prescription. Coverage varies by plan, so check before you book. Questions worth asking your insurer:

• Is Durolane, or viscosupplementation, covered under my extended health benefits or my drug benefits?
• Do you need a prescription or a cost estimate from the clinic before you approve it?
• Is there an annual maximum, a deductible, or a co-payment?
• Can the pharmacy bill you directly, or do I pay first and claim it back?

The manufacturer keeps insurer-specific claim details, including the product numbers some insurers ask for, on its reimbursement support page.

What affects the price

Durolane is a single-injection product, so you are paying for one dose per joint rather than a course of three to five visits. The price depends on the current product cost and on whether you buy it through a pharmacy or the clinic. Prices change, which is why we quote the current fee when you book rather than printing a number here.

Is it worth the cost?

The honest answer depends on your joint and your goals. Some people get useful relief that can last up to about six months from a single injection. Across high-quality reviews, though, the average benefit over a placebo injection is small and not always meaningful. Read the full guide to what the evidence shows, then decide with us at your assessment.

If cost is a barrier, tell us. There are other options, including a corticosteroid injection, and an injection works best paired with exercise and weight management rather than on its own.

Common questions

Is Durolane covered by OHIP?

No. The Durolane product is not covered by OHIP. Your rheumatology assessment is billed to OHIP in the usual way, with a referral.

Do extended health plans cover Durolane?

Many do, in part or in full, usually with a prescription. Ask your insurer whether viscosupplementation is covered under your extended health benefits or your drug benefits.

Do I need a referral?

Yes. Referrals are accepted by fax and, where available, through Ocean eReferral. The contact page explains how.

What does the fee cover?

We will set out exactly what the fee covers when we confirm it with you before you book, so there are no surprises.