Durable Medical Equipment and Related Supplies Terminology
Durable medical equipment generally refers to reusable equipment used for a medical purpose. Coverage definitions and the classification of related supplies vary by health plan and program.
Mobility and positioning
- Cane: A handheld aid used to support walking and balance.
- Walker: A frame used to provide support during standing or walking.
- Crutches: Mobility aids used to support movement while reducing weight placed through a leg.
- Manual wheelchair: A wheeled mobility device propelled by the user or another person.
- Power wheelchair: A wheelchair moved using a motor and controls.
- Hospital bed: An adjustable bed designed to support medical and positioning needs.
- Patient lift: Equipment used to assist with moving a person between surfaces.
- Commode chair: A chair with a toilet receptacle for use when reaching a bathroom is difficult.
- Pressure-reducing mattress: A mattress designed to redistribute pressure on the body.
Respiratory and treatment equipment
- Oxygen concentrator: A device that concentrates oxygen from surrounding air for prescribed oxygen therapy.
- Oxygen cylinder: A container holding oxygen for prescribed use.
- Nasal cannula: Tubing with small prongs placed in the nostrils to deliver oxygen.
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): Therapy that delivers continuous air pressure through an interface to help keep the airway open.
- Nebulizer: A device that turns liquid medicine into a mist for inhalation.
- Infusion pump: A device that delivers fluids or medicines at a controlled rate.
- Blood glucose monitor: A device used to measure blood sugar.
Accessories, supplies, and servicing
- Orthosis: A device, such as a brace, used to support or modify the function of a body part.
- Prosthesis: An artificial replacement for a missing body part.
- Urinary catheter: A tube used to drain urine from the bladder.
- Equipment order: A healthcare professional’s request specifying needed equipment.
- Supplier: An organization or professional providing equipment or related supplies.
- Rental: An arrangement to use equipment for a period rather than purchase it outright.
- Maintenance: Routine work intended to keep equipment functioning appropriately.
- Replacement: Provision of another item when an existing item is no longer suitable or usable under applicable requirements.
Equipment names, classifications, ordering requirements, and coverage may vary by program, supplier, and individual circumstances. Not every accessory or disposable supply is classified as DME. A clinician or supplier can explain prescribed equipment and its operation; the health plan can clarify coverage.