Sunday, October 12, 2014

What To Expect 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.

If your supplier approves the place as suitable, they would be the one to deliver and set up the equipment for you if there is a need for it. If you are getting an instrument that is a little complicated, they would also teach you on how to operate it. Some even teach you basic troubleshooting so that you will know if the unit is operating properly. This and a brief instruction on how to maintain and care for the unit is also needed.

As you are renting, you will enter into an agreement with your supplier. This is to make sure that the device is used as it is expected to. Be familiar with your rental rights and agreements so that you can avoid problems with the rental company or your insurance.

From time to time, your supplier may also send someone to inspect the unit and provide maintenance. Depending on the nature of the use of the unit, most device requires a professional to provide occasional care and troubleshooting if necessary.

Since most of us do not want to be stuck the hospital even during an illness, HME is one saving grace. You can still live your life even while recuperating. HME helps you to live life normally and be confident about it.




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