Each patient’s circumstances and needs are unique, but a common concern relates to the medical equipment and supplies used in hospice care. Generally, durable medical equipment and medical supplies that are prescribed by a physician and used at home are covered under Medicare’s hospice benefit. Prescriptions related to pain management or symptoms from the patient’s illness are also covered, sometimes with a small co-payment.
Medical equipment can include:
- Hospital bed
- Lifts
- Kidney machines
- Blood pressure monitor
- Oxygen equipment (including ventilators)
- Bi-Pap and C-Pap machines
- Bedside commode
- Wheelchair
- Walker
- Crutches
- Nebulizer
Medical supplies can include:
- Bandages and other wound care
- Ostomy supplies
- Foley catheters
- Adult wet wipes
- Disposable gloves