During your recovery from a work or auto accident injury, having the right support can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and ability to heal. Durable Medical Equipment (DME) refers to items prescribed by your doctor to aid your recovery. At Advantage Healthcare, we facilitate access to necessary DME, ensuring you have the braces, supports, mobility aids, or pain management devices needed to protect your injury, improve function, and manage symptoms effectively.
What Problems Does DME Address?
DME is used to provide:
- Support & Stability: Braces for knees, ankles, wrists, or back support belts to stabilize injured areas.
- Mobility Assistance: Canes, crutches, or walkers to help you walk safely while recovering.
- Pain Management: Devices like TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units for drug-free pain relief at home.
- Protection: Slings for shoulder injuries, splints for hand/wrist issues.
- Improved Function: Ergonomic aids or adaptive equipment recommended by your therapists.
How Do I Get DME?
Prescription
Your doctor or therapist at Advantage Healthcare will assess your need for specific DME based on your injury and treatment plan. If needed, they will provide a prescription.
Coordination
Our staff assists in coordinating with DME suppliers who work with your workers’ compensation or auto insurance carrier.
Fitting & Training
When appropriate, you will be properly fitted for the device, and your therapist will instruct you on its safe and effective use.
What Are the Benefits of Using Appropriate DME?
- Protects the injured area, promoting proper healing
- Reduces pain and discomfort
- Improves stability and reduces the risk of falls or re-injury
- Allows for greater independence and mobility during recovery
- Can help manage pain without relying solely on medication (e.g., TENS)
Why Obtain DME Through Advantage Healthcare
- Needs Assessment: We ensure the DME prescribed directly supports your specific diagnosis and rehabilitation goals.
- Coordination Assistance: We help streamline the process of obtaining authorization and delivery through approved suppliers.
- Proper Training: Our therapists ensure you know how to use your equipment correctly for maximum benefit and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I need to use the equipment?
Your doctor or therapist will advise you on the duration based on your healing progress.
Is DME covered by my work comp or auto insurance?
Medically necessary DME prescribed by your doctor related to your covered injury is typically covered by work comp and auto insurance. Authorization from the adjuster is usually required.
What if my brace or device doesn’t fit right or breaks?
Contact our clinic or the DME supplier directly. Adjustments, repairs, or replacements can usually be arranged. Do not continue using ill-fitting or broken equipment.
Get the Support You Need to Heal.
If you have questions about durable medical equipment related to your injury, please discuss it with your provider at your next appointment or contact our office.