What is DME?

Durable medical equipment (DME) refers to equipment and supplies that can be reused repeatedly, such as a hospital bed in your home, oxygen tank, and a wheelchair.

To Qualify As DME:

• Serve primarily a medical purpose

• Be prescribed by a medical professional

• Can be used repeatedly

• Expected to last at least three years

• For home use

• Suitable for patients with injuries or disabilities

Examples Of DME Used Outside Of The Hospital:

• Traction equipment

• Prostheses

• Oxygen concentrators, monitors, ventilators, and related supplies

• Personal care aids like bath chairs, dressing aids, and commodes

• Mobility aids

• Bed equipment

Does medicare cover Durable Medical equipment?

DME is covered by Medicare if your physician prescribes it for home use. This includes things like mobility aids, breathing equipment, hospital beds, traction equipment, and more. According to Original Medicare, 80 percent of the cost is covered by Medicare, which means you only pay 20 percent.

does medicaid cover durable medical equipment?

In the US, Medicaid programs vary from state to state, so what Medicaid covers also varies. Medicaid will generally cover medical equipment if it's medically necessary and cost-effective, and if it meets the state's definition of durable medical equipment. The definition varies, but it's usually the same as that used by Medicare. Most Medicaid programs cover the entire cost of home medical equipment.

Occasionally, Medicare or Medicaid will not cover the item you need. Here are some other ways you can pay for durable medical equipment:

• Private Insurance

• Veterans Health Care

• Private Pay

• Non-Profit or State Assistance