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Does Part B cover durable medical equipment?

Does Part B cover durable medical equipment?

Coverage
Last updated: 
April 10, 2026
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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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In 

Ohio

 specifically

In Ohio, Medicare plan options usually vary by county, and larger metro areas like Franklin, Cuyahoga, Hamilton, and Summit tend to have more Medicare Advantage competition than smaller counties. Ohio residents can also get free Medicare counseling through the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program.

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What this means for you

For you, this means equipment like a walker or CPAP machine can be covered under Part B, but you'll need a doctor's order and a Medicare-enrolled supplier to avoid paying out of pocket.

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Still have questions about Medicare?

Book a review with a licensed Medicare advisor.

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