Medical Equipment
Seniors can choose from hundreds of local medical distributors — plus drugstores — to buy health supplies, equipment and devices. Even more outlets await online.
With so many choices, how do you find a good one?
Health experts advise seniors and their family members to first find out precisely what product they need and what their insurer covers. Look carefully for a reputable vendor and only then shop for a deal. The process need not be hard. But there are consequences for picking a bad supplier of items such as diabetic test items, walkers, wheelchairs, soft goods, oxygen and medical feeding products.
Some tips
Is the product really necessary?
Did a doctor prescribe it? Don't get sucked in by ads, said Margherita Labson, who commutes between Davie and Chicago, where she is executive director of home care for the Joint Commission, which accredits providers.
"New technology is great. But do you need a new diabetes meter or do you just want one? What's it really going to do for you?" Labson said.
Which product is right for us?
If you and your doctor or counselor can identify in advance the exact product you need, shopping will be much easier. Try to check out a variety of brands. You can see whether you want a simple model or one with lots of options.
What is covered?
Insurers often negotiate deals with one or a few suppliers, giving consumers little choice. So make sure the supplier you choose is covered by your insurance. Even if you have no choice, you still can get a vote. Call the plan to complain or praise the supplier. The feedback might influence its future choices.
Is the supplier accredited?
They don't have to be; but if they are, they have met basic guidelines. Medicare imposes 25 standards and will require all durable medical equipment firms to be accredited by Sept. 30.
Specialist or generalist?
Patients with a single condition, such as diabetes, might want a specialized supplier offering extra expertise. Those with many needs might want a supplier selling many types of items. If you must pick just one, make sure it covers all you need.
Local or mail order?
Mail-order companies might offer lower prices, but check the shipping cost, too. Also, ask whether the supplier can set up automatic refills so you don't have to reorder, said Marc Wolf, chief executive of Diabetic Care Services. Many local companies contract with a centralized warehouse which allows you to have a local contact while benefiting from the lower prices of a company that sells a huge volume.
Training and explaining.
Look for a supplier that sets up the equipment, teaches you to use it, repairs it and has backup plans for an emergency, such as a hurricane. And look for free extra services, such as the supplier billing your supplemental insurer or checking your home for risks that could cause a fall.
Many companies that offer Durable Medical Equipment (DME) related to respiratory illnesses or sleep disorders have trained staff such as a Registered Respiratory Therapist available to answer questions. Whenever possible, a trained and licensed practitioner should be available for everything from fitting a CPAP mask for sleep, for example, as well as providing expert advice regarding problems that can occur.
Be careful shopping for price.
Buying from discounters and online suppliers can save money, but make sure their products are the real thing and watch for hidden charges.