There may be more items that DME covers. The list can also change at any time. You can contact Member Services if you have any questions on what is covered.
Medicare coverage for durable medical equipment
Do you need durable medical equipment (DME)? Medicare covers DME like wheelchairs, hospital beds, pumps and more. Read on to learn about the types of DME that are covered and how to find what you need.
What’s DME?
What’s DME?
Most DME is medical equipment that’s durable and reusable. It’s expected to last at least three years. It’s equipment for when you’re sick or injured.
Diabetic supplies like test strips and lancets may also be covered as DME. With a prescription, you can get these items at your local network pharmacy.
Your own DME is for use at home, in long-term care or to get around. If you’re in a hospital, nursing home or skilled nursing facility, they should provide all the DME you need for your stay.
What DME does Medicare cover?
What DME does Medicare cover?
Medicare Part B covers DME when it’s medically necessary. With a prescription from your doctor, Medicare covers items like:
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Diabetic supplies, like blood sugar meters and test strips*
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Hospital beds
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Oxygen equipment
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Mobility aids, like wheelchairs, walkers and canes
Medicare also covers these items and more:*
- Commode chairs
- Continuous passive motion machines, devices and accessories
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines
- Crutches
- Home infusion services
- Infusion pumps and supplies
- Lancet devices and lancets
- Nebulizers and related medicines
- Patient lifts
- Pressure-reducing support surfaces
- Scooters
- Suction pumps
- Traction equipment
- Items that modify your home, like ramps or widened doors
- Tools that you only use outside your home
- Most items that are used only for comfort or convenience, like air conditioners
- Items that are thrown away after you use them
You must buy some DME items. Others you have to rent. Some DME you can rent or buy. And you may need prior authorization for certain items.
How do I get the DME I need?
First, talk to your doctor to get a prescription for your DME. Then, you’ll need to find an in-network DME provider.
Use the provider search tool to find a provider. You may need to enter your ZIP code and choose your plan.
You can search by type of DME or search all providers. If you want your plan to help with the cost of your DME, make sure the provider is in your plan’s network.
Will I need prior authorization for DME?
Prior authorization (PA) helps us make sure a treatment or medicine is medically necessary. It’s a preapproval process that helps keep your costs down and keep you safe.
- Electric scooters
- Motorized wheelchairs
- Lower limb prosthetics
Your doctor will submit a PA request for you. PA can take up to two weeks. You can log in to your secure member website to check the status. Or contact Member Services.
*For covered DME list
*For items that require PA
This is not a complete list, and it can change. You can contact member services if you have any questions on what requires prior authorization.
*For diabetic supplies
We exclusively cover OneTouch/LifeScan blood sugar meters and test strips.