Medical Services, Supplies, and Equipment

Medical care that comes to you

For seniors with mobility limitations, traveling to a doctor's office can be a significant obstacle to getting consistent care. Physicians and nurse practitioners who make house calls bring primary care directly to homes, assisted living communities, and nursing facilities — removing that barrier entirely. Most insurance plans cover house call appointments the same way as standard office visits.

What residential medical services are available?

Providers who specialize in in-home and residential care typically offer a broad range of services, including:

• Ongoing primary care — scheduled checkups and preventive health screenings
• Medical history reviews and comprehensive physical examinations
• Care management and continuous health monitoring
• Pre-surgical assessments and specialist consultations
• Post-hospital transitional care to reduce readmission risk
• Hospice and end-of-life care coordination
• Access to specialty providers when needed
• Rehabilitation services with certified specialists
• Psychological therapy and behavioral health care
• Transportation assistance for clinic or specialist visits
• Emergency response and on-call support, available 24 hours a day

How home-based physicians work

Physicians serving homebound seniors act as the patient's primary care provider — conducting exams, managing medications, ordering tests, and coordinating with specialists. They maintain continuity of care by communicating with hospitals during and after any inpatient stays, helping to ensure a smooth transition back home.

Important preventive screenings for seniors

Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to catch problems early. Three screenings are especially important for older adults:

• Cardiovascular disease — Blood pressure should be checked at every visit; cholesterol levels should be reviewed at least every five years.
• Osteoporosis — Recommended for adults 65 and older, and earlier for those with risk factors like low body weight or a family history of fractures.
• Colorectal cancer — Screening is recommended beginning at age 50, with the method and frequency depending on individual risk factors.

What are durable medical equipment and supplies?

Durable medical equipment (DME) refers to medically necessary devices prescribed by a physician to assist with a health condition or disability. Unlike disposable supplies, DME is built to withstand repeated use over time. For seniors, the right equipment can make the difference between living independently at home and requiring facility care.

Common types of equipment for seniors

• Mobility aids — Canes, walkers, rollators, and wheelchairs to assist with movement and reduce fall risk.
• Power mobility devices — Power wheelchairs and scooters for seniors with limited upper-body strength or endurance.
• Hospital beds and accessories — Adjustable beds, rails, and mattress overlays to support comfort and safe repositioning at home.
• Lift chairs — Powered recliners that assist seniors in standing from a seated position.
• Bathroom safety equipment — Grab bars, shower chairs, tub transfer benches, and raised toilet seats to prevent falls.
• Oxygen equipment — Concentrators, portable tanks, and related supplies for seniors with COPD or other respiratory conditions.
• CPAP and BiPAP devices — Therapy equipment for sleep apnea and respiratory support.
• Blood glucose monitors — Meters, test strips, and lancets for managing diabetes at home.
• Blood pressure monitors — Home devices for tracking cardiovascular health between doctor visits.
• Stair lifts and ramps — Home modifications that extend safe mobility across multiple levels.

Does Medicare cover medical supplies and equipment?

Medicare Part B covers many categories of durable medical equipment when prescribed by a doctor and deemed medically necessary. Coverage typically includes 80% of the approved amount after the annual deductible is met, with the beneficiary responsible for the remaining 20%. Equipment must be purchased or rented from a Medicare-enrolled supplier.

Covered items include wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, CPAP devices, blood glucose monitors, and more. Not all supplies are covered — items considered comfort or convenience items generally are not.

How to obtain equipment through Medicare

• Get a written order or prescription from your doctor documenting medical necessity.
• Confirm the supplier is enrolled in Medicare before making a purchase or rental agreement.
• Ask the supplier to verify your coverage and out-of-pocket costs before receiving the equipment.
• Keep records of all prescriptions, delivery receipts, and correspondence with your supplier.

Renting vs. buying equipment

For some items, Medicare pays for a rental period after which ownership transfers to the patient. For others, a one-time purchase is standard. Renting can be the right choice for short-term recovery needs; purchasing makes more sense for chronic, ongoing conditions. A Medicare-enrolled supplier can walk you through which option applies to your specific equipment.