Things You Need To Know When Renting Medical Equipment

By Jocelyn Davidson


When one gets sick, a doctor can advise you to stay at the hospital to be monitored and to have constant medical attention. But nowadays, physicians agree that some patients needs to stay out of the hospital to be able to fully recuperate. That was not an easy thing before, as most equipment for medical cases are heavy and, well, are in the hospital.

Home Medical Equipment, or HME, are devices for patients who need private or home care, away from doctors and hospitals. There are also those who just wants to recover at home, so they are required to have an HME as a substitute for a professional. Some examples of HME would be air ionizer, nebulizer, portable oxygen, among others. They are operated mostly by a non professional, like a family member, and sometimes by the patient himself. A physician normally recommends where you can get one, but renting medical equipment for home use can be done on your own.

If you already have a supplier in mind, then good. You can also research as to suppliers available around your area, and if see if they offer the kind of device you require, and how much they cost. Most provider needs the detailed prescription from your physician, which includes the device needed and the duration of use.

Now since renting entails payment, you can check with your insurance provider like if they cover the kind of device you require. Most HME are covered, but the coverage varies. Better check with them before you get a supplier, as they can also give you suggestions.

You also have to make sure that your place would suit the instrument that you are getting. Most suppliers would do this as a precaution before they rent out their instruments. It is also best to do it yourself so you can make necessary changes and adjustments to complement the unit before you get it.

Once that is approved, they would deliver the unit to your place. Now depending of the intricacy of the operation, some may require for you or whoever is operating the unit to be familiar with it before it is delivered. They would also give you instructions on maintenance and care of the machine.

Because it is still a medical equipment, you will be advised on your rights and responsibilities. A sort of terms and conditions agreement, this would give you detailed as to what the rental entails. It also gives you further idea on the use of the machine.

With everything good and functional, your provider might also provide visits to make sure the unit is running smoothly. This maintenance also makes sure that the machine is always in tip top shape and is doing its job. The maintenance can be scheduled depending on how frequently the machine needs professional attention.

Although hospital care is still recommended, home care is slowly getting attention. More and more patient requests to be at their homes to recover. With the help of home medical equipment, this is now possible. You are still getting the attention you need like you were in the hospital, and with a touch of personal care.




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