How can individuals cover the costs of home care equipment?

Individuals can cover the costs of home care equipment through several avenues. Health insurance policies may cover some medical equipment, so it's important to review and understand the specifics of the insurance plan. Medicare and Medicaid also offer assistance for eligible individuals, particularly for durable medical equipment prescribed by a healthcare provider. Additionally, veterans may qualify for equipment support through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Grants and financial aid programs from non-profit organizations and community resources can provide further assistance. Renting equipment instead of purchasing can also reduce upfront costs. Exploring financing options, such as payment plans offered by suppliers, can help manage expenses over time. Consulting with a social worker or financial advisor can provide guidance tailored to individual financial situations.

Paying for Home Care Equipment

An older adult uses a walker, just one of many types of home care equipment, to stand with her adult daughter.

Discover the different types of payment options for home care equipment.

Would an aging loved one feel better with more support getting in and out of the bathtub or shower? Does he or she need a walker or rollator to move around? If so, it’s highly likely that you’ll soon be looking to purchase the in-home adaptive devices that so many families depend on to help older loved ones stay safe and independent. And it’s not unlikely that you’ll be wondering how to cover the cost of these types of home care equipment, and if any of them may be covered through Medicare or insurance.

Just like home care services, there are many choices when you start looking for home care supplies and equipment. Below are some of the possibilities available to help you or a loved one in covering the cost of home medical supplies.

Medicare

If the older person has Medicare Part A and is eligible for the Home Health Benefit, then Medicare will pay for 80% of the allowable expense for medically required durable medical equipment. If a senior is covered by Medicare Part B, he/she is not required to qualify for the Home Health Benefit, and Medicare will cover 80% of the permissible amount for medically necessary durable medical equipment.

Veterans’ Administration (VA)

If the older adult is a veteran, the Veterans’ Administration can be of assistance in providing durable medical equipment to individuals who qualify. Veterans or the spouse of a veteran may be qualified for benefits.

Other Ways to Cover the Costs of Home Care Equipment

If the older adult you love doesn’t qualify for benefits from the VA or for Medicare, there are a few other possibilities to help cover the expense for home care products to keep older individuals safe. Following are several tips for making use of long-term care or health insurance and private finances to afford the equipment needed:

Long-Term Care Insurance/Health Insurance

Some private insurance providers will also cover some of the expenses if the devices are medically necessary. Coverage is either based on the person’s coverage, or, if the person seeking coverage is a dependent, then the family policy should be reviewed for information on dependent coverage.

Keep in mind, though, that while having your insurance provider cover some of the expense may seem like a good idea, it might be possible to find the products you need at an “out of network” supplier at a reduced price.

Paying Out of Pocket

If your older loved one requires home care equipment that is not covered by private insurance, try looking into equipment rental options or previously owned items such as wheelchairs, scooters and accessible vans. Second-hand equipment may be found in disability publications and on websites such as www.Craigslist.org, www.ebay.com, and www.unitedaccess.com.

If you need help looking into or covering the costs of home care equipment, contact the San Diego home care team at San Diego Home Caregivers today. We can provide a complimentary in-home consultation, make equipment recommendations, arrange for order and delivery, and answer any other home care questions you may have. Contact us online or call us at (619) 487-9000. We’re pleased to provide in-home care in San Diego, La Mesa, Carlsbad, and throughout San Diego County.