United Spinal Association knows it is important for wheelchair users to obtain quality durable medical equipment.
Securing the necessary products for your independent lifestyle can be challenging, whether it’s shower chairs, wheelchair cushions or home lifts. We recommend you start by working with a physical or occupational therapist to determine which product you need. Your PT or OT can also help you to obtain a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.
Our Disability Products & Services Guide provides helpful information that may assist you. Our membership publication, New Mobility, regularly posts product reviews as well. Subscribe to New Mobility’s newsletter to be the first to learn about new products.
Strategies for Funding DME
Insurance can cover much of the cost of DME, as can government programs like Medicare. But navigating the system can be time-consuming and difficult. Here are resources to help you obtain the equipment you need to live independently:
- The New Mobility article “6 Strategies to Navigate Your Insurance Providers approvals Process” shares tips on gathering and presenting the necessary documentation to your private insurer. It also explains the importance of appealing any denial. New Mobility is the membership publication of United Spinal.
- If you receive government-funded personal care assistance through Medicaid, Medicare or the Department of Aging, your service coordinator can help you obtain any DME you are eligible to receive. But you must remain engaged to ensure you receive what you qualify for, including gathering all necessary documentation, such as a letter of medical necessity.
- If your disability is service-connected, contact United Spinal Association’s VetsFirst Our staff will help you learn what DME you are eligible for from Veterans Affairs.
- If you are employed or have a goal of becoming employed, you may be eligible for services from your state’s Vocational Rehabilitation program, including funding for DME.
- Each state has an assistive technology program that may help you identify and obtain the necessary DME.
- Rehab Mart offers DME at lower prices than many providers. It is owned and operated by occupational and physical therapists.
- SpinLife and SportAid are online companies that offer equipment at discounted rates.
- If you cannot obtain funding for the products and equipment you need, consider a Help Hope Live campaign. This nonprofit fundraising site exists to help people pay medical bills and expenses. United Spinal staff works closely with the group to ensure a strong outreach to wheelchair users
Please contact United Spinal Association’s Community Supports team for more information or assistance. Join our community by signing up for a free membership. To support our mission, donate here.