How do I purchase durable medical equipment?
Who is this for?
If your doctor said you need durable medical equipment, or DME, here's what you need to know about how to buy or rent it.
If you're managing a health condition or recovering from an operation, you might need durable medical equipment, or DME. Durable medical equipment includes things like wheelchairs, oxygen machines, walkers and hospital beds.
Just like medication, your doctor will write a prescription for the equipment you need. You can usually choose to rent or buy it. Before you pay, it's a good idea to make sure your plan covers it.
Does my Medicare plan cover durable medical equipment?
All Medicare plans cover basic equipment for you to use at home. If you need something more advanced, your plan may still cover it if your doctor says it's medically necessary.
Usually, you'll only be responsible for paying coinsurance. However, each plan covers durable medical equipment a little differently.
- Some plans only cover certain brands or equipment from specific manufacturers.
- Some plans require you to pay a deductible before they begin to pay for your durable medical equipment.
You can find information about what your plan covers in the My Coverage section of your account at bcbsm.com.
If you're shopping for insurance, learn more about our Medicare plans.
Where can I rent or buy durable medical equipment?
Use our Find a Doctor tool to locate providers near you, or call the customer service number on the back of your ID card.
Diabetic supplies:
J&B fills your prescriptions for diabetic supplies. To find a J&B provider near you:
TTY users call 1-868-520-9624
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Prosthetics, orthotics and all other durable medical equipment:
Northwood, Inc. fills your prescriptions for durable medical equipment. To find a Northwood provider near you, call:
TTY users call 711
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Monday through Friday
Medicare supplement plan members: Go to medicare.gov to find a provider.
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