Durable Medical Equipment

Doctors prescribe durable medical equipment (DME), sometimes called home medical equipment, for use at home. DME helps to speed recovery and ease some of the physical burden on caregivers.  

DME can help you live independently and perform daily activities. Without this technology, some activities might be harder to do or not even possible. Some equipment, like walkers, makes moving around easier. Others, like CPAP machines, help you breathe more easily.

Other Types of DME Include, but Are Not Limited to:

  • blood sugar monitors
  • crutches
  • hospital beds
  • oxygen therapy
  • therapy shoes or inserts
  • wheelchairs
If you have Medicare, check with a Medicare representative before buying or renting DME to make sure you are using a contract supplier. Medicare will usually help pay for your DME from an approved supplier.

Additional Resources:


Eldercare Locator: eldercare.acl.gov/medical-equipment-suppliers


Medicare: www.medicare.gov