Many people are always worried about this but the answer is simply “Yes” in many cases. In case you enrolled in Medicare Part B, then your Medicare plan will cover your costs on Durable Medicare Equipment which are also known as DME. For Medicare to pay for your DME, the doctor must prescribe it as a necessity and should state that it should be used at home.
In case you are in a nursing home, Medicare will not take it as a “home” even if it falls under Medicare-covered facility. But in case you are in a long-term care facility, this will qualify as a “home” and therefore you are eligible to be refunded your expenditures. Besides, if you are admitted to a skilled nurse facility, you will likely be provided with DME and that means that the facility will be responsible for all your DME.
Durable Medicare Equipment –DME
These refer to all the medical equipment that is used inside the home to help patients go on with their daily routines. You must keep in mind that all DME must be prescribed by a doctor and must meet the criteria and qualifications. This means that the equipment should meet the following:
· Used for medical reasons
· Durability
· Used at home
· Not commonly useful for a person who
· Expected to have a lifespan of 3 years
using these devices is essential for tasks such as breathing, bathing, or walking. The Medicare durable equipment coverage plan includes the following items:
· Walkers
· Hospital beds
· Wheelchairs
· Knee walker
· Bath safety products
· CPAP machines
· Knee scooters
· The first pair of glass after you have your cataract surgery
· Ostomy bags
MDE does not include disposable items such as gloves and needles because these items are just used once and that means they do not fall under the criteria of 3 years’ lifespan. Even though these items might be essential in your daily life, but they cannot be prescribed by the doctor. This may fall in your Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plan where these items are covered.
Where can I find Approved MDE?
Just after your doctor offers you a prescription, they will normally direct you where you can pick up your DME. If they do not direct, you then you can use Medicare’s online tool. You will have to enter your zip code to find durable medical equipment whereas it will generate a list of stores in your area with the exact device that you are looking for.
Only registered MDE supplies are the only ones that can provide you with DME.
In case you still have some issues in finding the right DME that suits your needs, you can reach out to your doctor or you can call your service provider for more help and information. you can also rent out those medical equiment instead.
Will I pay anything if my item falls under DME coverage?
if you just have the Original Medicare, then you will have to incur some costs for your DME. You will have to pay 20% of the total cost to meet your Medicare Part B plan. In case the provider does not accept Medicare assignment, you might have to pay an additional 15%. The amount of money you will pay depends on whether you are renting or buying.
If you are fortunate enough to have a Medicare Supplement plan, then you might not pay anything. Medicare Supplement plan F and G are the most popular plans as they cover your Medicare Plan B coinsurance. Coinsurance can sometimes become pricy and this depends on the amount of DME that you need. Be wise to consider your options when it comes to enrolling in an insurance plan.
Author’s Disclaimer
You should never use anything from this website as a substitute for a piece of professional medical advice. Make sure that you consult your doctor or medical provider about your diagnosis as well as treatment to have a healthy life. All decisions you make should be based on the correct medication as directed by a health professional.