Are you or a parent turning 65 this year and exploring Medicare options for the first time? This time of year, many people find themselves navigating the world of Medicare, trying to understand what’s covered. One common question is about "durable medical equipment" or DME. We’re here to help with this list of the top DME items Medicare will cover in 2025.
- What is durable medical equipment (DME)?
- How does Medicare cover DME?
- Top 10 DME devices covered by Medicare
- Important Medicare enrollment dates
- Need more help?
- Make every day a Holiday
What is durable medical equipment (DME)?
First things first – what exactly is DME? Durable medical equipment is any medical item that can be used repeatedly, is designed to be used at home, helps with a medical condition or injury and is expected to last three years or more. These items are meant to make life easier and safer, especially if you have health conditions that limit your mobility or ability to care for yourself.
How does Medicare cover DME?
Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers medically necessary DME if your Medicare-enrolled doctor or other healthcare provider prescribes it for use in your home. You may be able to choose to rent or buy the equipment, and some rented items will become your property after you’ve made a certain number of payments.
Top 10 DME items covered by Medicare
1. Walkers and rollators
For older adults who need a little extra support getting around, walkers and rollators (walkers with wheels) can be a great help. Medicare Part B helps you pay for these mobility aids if your doctor prescribes them.
2. Wheelchairs and power scooters
For seniors who have trouble walking even with support, a manual wheelchair or power scooter might be the answer. Medicare helps cover the cost if you qualify and if your doctor confirms the equipment is necessary to help you move around safely.
3. Hospital beds
If you need a bed that can be adjusted for comfort or medical reasons, Medicare can help pay for a hospital bed to be placed in your home. They’re often used for seniors who need to stay in bed for long periods of time or have certain medical conditions.
4. Blood sugar monitors and test strips
For anyone with diabetes, monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial. Medicare helps cover blood sugar monitors, test strips and lancets for seniors who need them.
5. Oxygen equipment and accessories
Have a respiratory condition that requires oxygen therapy? Medicare helps cover the cost of oxygen equipment and the necessary accessories for older adults. This includes oxygen tanks, concentrators and tubing.
6. CPAP machines for sleep apnea
Do you or a senior parent have sleep apnea? Medicare Part B helps pay for CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines, which can make breathing easier while sleeping.
7. Nebulizers and nebulizer medications
For people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, nebulizers can deliver medication directly to the lungs. If a doctor prescribes a nebulizer for an older adult, Medicare can help with the cost.
8. Patient lifts
Patient lifts help caregivers transfer someone from a bed to a chair or vice versa. Medicare helps cover these lifts if a doctor confirms they’re necessary for senior home care.
9. Commode chairs
For older adults who have trouble getting to the bathroom, a bedside commode can make things much easier. Medicare helps pay for this equipment if they qualify based on their condition.
10. Infusion pumps and supplies
For people who need intravenous medication, infusion pumps are often used. Medicare helps seniors cover the costs, especially for conditions like diabetes or certain cancers.
Important Medicare enrollment dates
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or Open Enrollment for 2025 runs from October 15 through December 7, 2024. This is the time to review your options and make sure your Medicare plan will help cover the durable medical equipment you might need next year.
Need more help?
If you have more questions about Medicare coverage specifics, including DME, you can always visit the official Medicare website or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). People who are deaf or hard of hearing can reach Medicare at 1-877-486-2048. Customer service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the fall Annual Enrollment Period to answer your questions. For a beginner’s guide to Medicare, get started with this easy-to-understand article on Medicare types, terms and tips.
Make every day a Holiday
Choosing the right Medicare plan that helps pay for the durable medical equipment you’ll need in 2025 might seem complicated, but finding the perfect senior living community with on-site care doesn’t need to be.
Visit a Holiday independent living community near you to explore all-inclusive services and amenities designed just for seniors.
