About this topic
Durable medical equipment is also known as DME. You may need these supplies or tools to use in your home if you have been hurt or are sick. Most often, your doctor must order these supplies for you. Your insurance may pay for some or all of the cost. ‚
General
You must be able to use something over and over for it to be a kind of DME. Your insurance company may also want the item to be something you would not use if you were healthy or not injured. ‚
Here are some examples of things that are often considered to be DME: ‚
- Hospital beds for use in your home
- Things to help you move about safely. You may need a walker, wheelchair, crutches, or a scooter.
- Breathing equipment. This includes things like oxygen, nebulizers, or ventilators, as well as the supplies needed to use this equipment.
- Items to help you if you are not able to move about well. You may need things like commodes or patient lifts.
- Tools to treat certain illnesses. Based on your condition, you may need a blood glucose monitor, suction pump, catheter, or compression device.
You may be able to rent some equipment. Other kinds you will have to buy. Always check with your insurance company to learn what is covered. Ask your doctor how long you will need to use the DME. ‚
Helpful tips
- Be sure you learn how to use your DME the right way.
- Always keep the phone number for your DME provider on hand in case you have any questions.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚