Financing DME with Medicare
Contributed by Provi Sharpe, Director of Emergency Preparedness, MDTAP
Did you know that Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers durable medical equipment (DME) that your doctor prescribes for use in your home? In certain circumstances, the DME that Medicare covers includes, but isn’t limited to, blood sugar monitors and diabetic testing strips, canes (not including white canes for the blind) commode chairs, crutches, hospital beds, patient lifts, Home oxygen equipment and supplies, walkers and wheelchairs.
All people with Medicare are covered. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Medicare will only cover your DME if your doctor or supplier is enrolled in Medicare. For more information call 1-800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov.
Medicare also maintains a searchable online Supplier Directory. Simply put in your zip code and find a DME supplier near you.
