Medicare Durable Medical Equipment: What It Covers and How It Works

When you need help moving, sitting, or sleeping at home because of a medical condition, Medicare durable medical equipment, devices prescribed by a doctor to support health needs in the home. Also known as DME, it includes things like wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, and oxygen systems—tools that aren’t meant to be used once and thrown away, but to last and make daily life safer. This isn’t about fancy gadgets or luxury items. It’s about the practical gear that lets someone with mobility issues, chronic pain, or breathing problems stay independent and avoid hospital visits.

Not everything labeled "medical equipment" counts. Durable medical equipment, must be reusable, medically necessary, and used primarily in the home. For example, a hospital bed qualifies, but a regular recliner doesn’t—unless it’s specifically prescribed and modified for medical use. Same with oxygen concentrators or commode chairs. These are covered under Medicare Part B if your doctor says you need them and they’re from a Medicare-approved supplier. You’ll pay 20% of the cost after meeting your deductible, and Medicare handles the rest.

People often assume that if a device helps them feel better, Medicare will pay. But that’s not how it works. Durable medical equipment must be tied to a diagnosed condition, like COPD, arthritis, or post-surgery recovery. A cane might be covered if you have balance issues from a stroke, but not if you just want extra support walking the dog. And you can’t just walk into a store and buy one—your doctor must write a detailed prescription, and the supplier must be enrolled in Medicare. Skipping these steps means you pay full price, even if the item is medically needed.

What’s not covered? Things like air purifiers, massage chairs, or standard recliners—even if they help with back pain. Medicare doesn’t cover comfort items unless they’re medically essential and documented. But if your recliner is part of a custom, pressure-relieving system prescribed for severe degenerative disc disease, that’s a different story. That’s where things get tricky, and why so many people get confused. The line between "helpful" and "covered" isn’t always clear.

Many families find themselves stuck between wanting to help a loved one and not knowing what’s actually covered. That’s why so many turn to online guides, forums, and expert reviews to sort through the noise. Below, you’ll find real-life advice from people who’ve been there—how to choose the right equipment, what to say to your doctor, how to avoid being upsold, and which brands actually deliver on quality and durability. Whether you’re helping an elderly parent, managing a long-term condition, or just trying to understand your benefits, these posts cut through the jargon and give you what you need to move forward with confidence.