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Durable Medical Equipment refers to reusable medical devices prescribed by a physician for use in the home to serve a medical purpose. To qualify as DME under Medicaid and Medicare, equipment must be durable (withstand repeated use), primarily medical in nature, appropriate for home use, and not useful to someone without an illness or injury. Common DME for individuals with disabilities includes wheelchairs and positioning systems, hospital beds, bath chairs and shower benches, standing frames, orthotics and braces, nebulizers, suction machines, and speech-generating devices (classified as DME by CMS). DME requires a physician's prescription, may need prior authorization from Medicaid, and must be obtained from an enrolled DME supplier. Medicaid covers DME for all eligible individuals, and EPSDT ensures broader coverage for children under 21.
DME is covered under Medicaid state plans separate from waiver services — families do not need a waiver to access DME. Understanding the DME process helps families get equipment faster while waiver applications are pending.