Is Durable Medical Equipment Covered By Insurance?

Are you one of those wondering how to save on DME purchases? Is durable medical equipment covered by insurance?

This varies with your insurance plan and coverage. Durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs and crutches, may be completely covered by some health insurance policies, while others may just partially or not at all.

It is best to get in touch with your insurance company directly to find out what kinds of DME they cover and whether there are any usage or payment amount restrictions.

Your doctor can also provide helpful information when it comes to purchasing DME. He or she can provide you with a list of the items that your plan covers and tell you whether any other paperwork is required before the purchase can be made.

Moreover, a lot of doctors have access to programs that offer discounts, which can enable you to lower the cost of your equipment. Before making any purchases, it is crucial to consult with your doctor and insurance company since they can assist you make sure you get the most for your money.

Would You Know If Your Insurance Covers Your DME or Not?

If you're under Medicare [Part B] or Medicaid, you're in luck! Both programs provide coverage for a variety of DME items. If neither program is providing you with benefits, you should speak with your insurance company to learn what is and isn't covered.

Medicare Part B, usually referred to as Medical Insurance, covers a variety of services, including doctor visits, outpatient treatment, medical equipment, and preventative care.

Durable medical equipment (DME) that is prescribed by a physician who is registered in Medicare or another healthcare professional for use at home is covered by Part B.

The DME covered by Medicare includes a range of items, not limited to:

• Blood sugar meters
• Blood sugar test strips
• Canes
• Commode chairs
• Continuous passive motion machines, devices, and accessories
• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines
• Crutches
• Home infusion services
• Hospital beds
• Infusion pumps and supplies
• Lancet devices and lancets
• Nebulizers and nebulizer medications
• Oxygen equipment and accessories
• Patient lifts
• Pressure-reducing support surfaces
• Suction pumps
• Traction equipment
• Walkers
• Wheelchairs and scooters

Some of the DME items are covered by Medicare, though the list is subject to change. It is important to keep in mind, too, that not all DME may be covered by Medicare or your insurance company.

Contact your healthcare practitioner or the insurance company for assistance if you have any questions or concerns regarding the equipment that your insurance plan covers. They can give you details about your coverage and the accompanying fees.

How Will I Know If I Need A DME For My Injury Or Illness?

The easiest approach to determine whether you require a DME is to speak with your doctor. Your doctor can evaluate your medical condition and decide what tools are best for managing or treating it.

For instance, if you've had a leg injury in the past and are having trouble moving about, your doctor may suggest crutches or a wheelchair to help you get around. 

On the other hand, they might advise utilizing a nebulizer for inhalation therapy if you have chronic asthma.

Additionally, your doctor may be able to direct you to a specialist experienced in utilizing DME and offer advice on how to utilize particular pieces of equipment. By doing this, you may make sure that the gadget you're buying will fulfill your requirements and enhance your quality of life.

Considerations Before Purchasing A DME

When shopping for DME, it is essential to consider the following factors:

• The cost of the device.

Be sure to compare prices before settling on a specific piece of equipment. It's also a good idea to shop around and see if you qualify for any discounts or special offers from the manufacturer or retailer.

For instance, Whittier Medical Supplies offers a wide range of DMEs for home use at discounted prices. They also have a customer service line to ask questions about their products.

• The device's features and functions.

Before purchasing, consider whether the device is easy to use, reliable, and suitable. It is also essential to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to understand how it works and how best to care for it.

• The warranty coverage.

It is essential to check what kind of guarantee or warranty the DME provider offers on their product before purchasing it. This will help ensure that if anything goes wrong with the item within a specific time frame, you can repair or replace it without additional expense.

• Your insurance coverage.

Remember to check with your health insurer before buying a DME to ensure they cover it. This may also help in getting discounts on certain items, depending on your policy type.

Does Your Insurance Cover Incontinence Products?

Did you know that some insurance providers may cover the cost of incontinence products such as adult diapers, pads, and pull-ups? You must check with your insurance provider beforehand to determine what types of incontinence supplies they will reimburse.

Incontinence supplies may or may not need a prescription from a doctor and varies per individual condition. They are considered medically necessary for those who suffer from urinary or fecal incontinence due to health conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.

However, even if it isn't medically necessary, you can still ask your provider about possible coverage options.

It's also worth noting that many manufacturers, like Meddcare, provide discounts on bulk orders for those with limited incomes.

Takeaway

When searching for the right DME for your needs, ask, "Is durable medical equipment covered by insurance? What factors should you consider before buying a piece of equipment?"

Remember to consult your doctor and insurance provider before making any purchase. This will help ensure you get the best value for your money. Once you know what DME you need, visit the Whittier Medical Supplies website to purchase your DME.

For faster transactions, you can also content them via sales@medicalsupplywhittier.com.