Durable medical equipment
Durable medical equipment (DME), also known as home medical equipment (HME) are terms used to describe any medical equipment used in the home to aid in a better quality of living. It is a benefit included in most insurances.
HME / DME
Home medical equipment is a category of devices used for patients whose care is being managed from a home or other private facility managed by a nonprofessional care- giver or family member. It is often referred to as “durable” medical equipment (DME) as it is intended to withstand repeated use by nonprofessionals or the patient, and is appropriate for use in the home.
For most home medical equipment to be reimbursed by insurance, a patient must have a doctor’s prescription for the equipment needed. Some equipment, such as oxygen, is FDA regulated and must be prescribed by the physician before purchase whether insurance reimbursed or otherwise.
The physician may recommend a supplier for the home medical equipment but,
THE PATIENT HAS THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE THE COMPANY THEY PREFER.
The HME / DME supplier is obligated to perform certain functions when providing home medical equipment. These include:
▪ Proper delivery and setup of the equipment
▪ Ensuring the home environment is suitable and safe for proper usage of the equipment
▪ Training the patient, family and caregivers on the proper usage of the equipment
▪ Informing the patient and/or caregiver of their rights and responsibilities
▪ Providing periodic maintenance service e.g., refilling oxygen, servicing equipment, etc.