Open the accessibility options menu Open Accessibility Menu
Close the accessibility options menu Hide

Obtaining Durable Medical Equipment

Durable medical equipment (DME) is equipment that is used mostly for medical reasons at home, is needed due to an illness or disease, and is made for long-term use. The following are some things to think about when getting your DME.

To find a company that sells medical equipment, look in the yellow pages of a telephone book under “Home Health Care Equipment & Supplies.” Below are some area companies that have DME.

Start by asking:

  • How long will it take to get the equipment?
  • What is the process for getting the cost paid?
  • Will the cost be paid by your health insurance, Medicaid or Medicare?
  • What are my co-pays?
  • What is the lifetime expectancy of the equipment?
  • * NOTE: Medicare and private insurance does not pay for DME such as grab bars, reachers, shoehorns, bathtub or shower equipment, toilet seats or commodes.

Before you buy equipment, ask:

  • If it needs repair, is a temporary replacement available?
  • How does the company service items such as hospital beds or wheelchairs?
  • What is the company’s return policy?
  • What options the options if your health condition changes and you do not need the equipment anymore? Especially if it is before the lifetime expectancy of the equipment.
  • Will the new equipment work with equipment your already use?
  • Will the new equipment fit into your living area?
  • What can you do if it is not what you expected, or it does not work out for you?

When buying medical equipment, remember:

  • If the company will accept “assignment”, it means they accept what Medicaid or Medicare will pay for the equipment, so do not agree to pay for any additional cost.
  • Ask for a “prior authorization” or purchase order number. This is needed if you need to call about the equipment.

As soon as you get the equipment:

  • Check to see if the item is what you ordered.
  • Fully check it to make sure it works for you.
  • Ask for a demonstration on how to use it.

Some area companies that have Durable Medical Equipment

Loan Closets:

Service Area Pharmacies:

Medical Equipment Companies:
* Call to find out the closest retail showrooms