Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and supplies are generally ordered by a healthcare provider and are meant for long-term, daily use. Oxygen devices, wheelchairs, crutches, and blood testing strips for people with diabetes are examples of DME.
Specifically, durable medical equipment is any item that offers a patient a measurable therapeutic advantage due to diagnosed medical disorders or illnesses.
Durable medical equipment consists of objects whose principal function is to treat a medical ailment and which would be of no use to a person absent such illness. DME is typically ordered by a physician or other medical expert and is reusable
This medical technology is also meant for use at home, allowing patients to receive proper care even if they cannot travel to the hospital. Hospital beds, traction apparatus, kidney machines, ventilators, monitors, and pressure mattresses are among the most prevalent DME devices in the home.
Who Pays for Durable Medical Equipment?
Medicare does not cover all types of DME, though. Medicaid eligibility varies by state, and the policy for purchasing or renting durable medical equipment is complex. Medicaid may cover specific durable medical equipment (DME) for many seniors if the equipment is medically required and helps the individual to live at home rather than in a nursing home.
In addition, if a veteran has a handicap that necessitates DME, Veteran’s Affairs will often provide financial support for the vast majority of adapted equipment and home medical devices. When other state-level financial assistance is available to help patients manage the costs of DME, they must maintain as much independence as possible.
Medicare Coverage for Home Traction Devices?
Medicare supports a variety of home-use durable medical equipment (DME). This comprises traction apparatus, which can provide relief to specific body areas.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, traction alleviates pain or suffering caused by an injury by creating tension.
As with all other types of DME, it is crucial to ensure that both your prescribing physician and your supplier are Medicare participants. If they are not, then Medicare Part B will not contribute to the cost of the equipment, and you will be responsible for the entire amount.
Different types of DME are covered differently, so depending on what is available and what Medicare will cover, you may be required to rent or purchase the device.
After satisfying the Part B deductible, you’ll be responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved amount.
Medicare recommendations for cervical traction devices
Additionally, cervical traction devices ease back and neck pain. Medicare covers medically necessary cervical traction devices.
These disorders must be a musculoskeletal or neurological limitation to qualify for a device. In addition, you must demonstrate that you can use the equipment comfortably.
Medicare will not cover any gadget that requires attachment to a headboard or freestanding frame to function.
It may also reimburse cervical traction equipment if you suffer lower jaw and neck deformation or dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint.
Medicare Part C, commonly known as Medicare Advantage plans, which are private and cover everything Original Medicare does, may offer additional coverage.
Does Medicare Cover Devices for Lumbar Traction?
Medicare coverage for lumbar traction and traction devices can be restricted, but Original Medicare does offer choices for treating lumbar or back pain.
Medicare supports chiropractic care under certain conditions, such as subluxation. Typically, physical therapy and acupuncture to address lower back pain are covered by insurance.
Part D of Medicare, an optional benefit covering prescription medicines, could be used for pain treatment.
Medicare will only fund DME if both your doctors and DME providers are Medicare participants. Physicians and suppliers must meet rigorous requirements to enroll in Medicare and remain enrolled. Medicare will not reimburse claims submitted by physicians and suppliers that are not registered.
Ensure that your physicians and DME suppliers are Medicare-enrolled. Before purchasing DME, it is also essential to ask a supplier if they participate in Medicare. If a supplier engages in Medicare, they must accept assignment (which means they can only charge you the Medicare-approved coinsurance and Part B deductible). If a supplier is not participating and does not accept work, there is no maximum price they can charge you.
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