Durable medical equipment (DME) is equipment and supplies ordered by a healthcare provider for everyday or extended use.
This type of equipment includes items such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, portable oxygen, patient lifts and commode chairs.
Medicare considers DME “as any equipment that can withstand repeated use when used for a medical reason. The equipment must have an expected lifetime of three years and it must not be considered useful to someone who is not sick or injured.” DME can be used to help individuals maintain their functional mobility and activities of daily living. DME differs from adaptive equipment in the sense that DME must serve a medical purpose.
DME can also include other non-mobility devices or supplies, overall enabling individuals to manage their lives more independently while decreasing the need for caregiver assistance.
DME must be prescribed by a physician. There are some cases where DME may be recommended but not covered by insurance. In Carroll County, the local Lions Clubs have DME lending closets available to those in the community, and the Maryland Department of Aging has developed the DME Re-Use program to provide equipment to residents with any illness, injury, or disability, regardless of age, at no cost. A DME Request Form must be completed and submitted. Learn more: Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use or by contacting 240-230-8000.
Care Connect navigators are available at the Tevis Center for Wellness to help individuals navigate complex health issues. Call 410-871-7000 and ask to speak to a health navigator.
