If you or your loved one is just starting their hospice journey, you’ve likely wondered what kind of medical equipment is needed and, more importantly, who pays for this equipment.
What is DME?
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) is specialized equipment and supplies needed in hospice to ensure patients are provided comfort and will be used for symptom management. This type of equipment is designed with patient dignity in mind and is designed to alleviate pain, aid in daily living tasks, facilitate mobility, and address specific hospice needs.
Unlike other equipment, DMEs are designed to withstand repeated or daily use.
Common Examples of DME
The most commonly used DME in a hospice setting is:
- Hospital beds: these beds are usually adjustable, have height customization, and side rails
- Oxygen equipment: This will include oxygen concentrators or portable oxygen tanks
- Wheelchairs: Manual or electric wheelchairs are used for those who struggle with mobility problems
- Wound care supplies: Dressing, bandages, and specialized cushions will help prevent infections and encourage proper healing
- Lifts and transfer equipment: Patient lifts, slings, and transfer boards help the care team transfer patients from the bed to chairs and other surfaces safely
- Mobility aids: This includes equipment like walkers, crutches, and canes for balance
- Feeding equipment: Enteral equipment, like feeding tubes, pumps, and other supplies, aid patients who cannot properly eat or drink
- Bathroom equipment: To maintain the independence of patients, equipment like raised toilet seats, shower chairs, and grab bars is used
On top of all this, communication devices like speech-generating devices and amplifiers are used with patients who have hearing impairments. This list is just the tip of the iceberg, there are many more different types of equipment that are used according to the patient’s specific needs.
Who Pays for DME?
Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurance providers will cover 100% of the cost of DME aso long as the patient meets the qualification requirements of the plan. DME that is designed for the outdoors is generally not covered and patients may need to pay for these expenses out of pocket.
Equipment that might not be covered includes:
- Single-use items
- Wheelchairs designed for the outdoors
- Home modifications like ramps and widened doorways
