Does Part B cover durable medical equipment?
The short answer
Yes, Part B covers durable medical equipment, often called DME, when a doctor orders it as medically necessary. You typically pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount after your Part B deductible.
The full explanation
Durable medical equipment is gear designed to serve a medical purpose, withstand repeated use, and be used at home. Think wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, CPAP machines, and blood sugar monitors. If your doctor determines you need it and writes an order, Part B generally covers it.The key phrase is medically necessary. Medicare won't cover equipment just because it would be convenient or helpful in a general sense. The item needs to be prescribed by your doctor to treat a specific condition.You also need to use a Medicare-enrolled supplier. If you buy or rent equipment from a supplier who isn't enrolled in Medicare, you could end up paying the full cost yourself. It's worth confirming before you pick a supplier.Once the equipment is approved, Medicare covers 80 percent of the approved amount. You pay the remaining 20 percent, plus your Part B deductible if you haven't already met it for the year. Some items are rented rather than purchased outright, which is how Medicare handles things like oxygen concentrators. A Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan may cover some or all of that remaining 20 percent, depending on your coverage. Always verify current details with your plan or a licensed agent.
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