Durable medical equipment (DME) means items, supplies or equipment designed for particular medical needs. It is called durable because it is meant to last a long time.

Examples of DME

  • Leg and body braces

  • Crutches

  • Wheelchairs

  • Hospital beds

  • Some medical or surgical supplies

  • Intravenous pumps

  • Nutritional supplements

Usually, your child will need a prescription from a health care provider for DME. DME is provided by companies (usually called DME vendors or providers) that have a contract with your child's health plan. Contact a Member Services Representative or your child's case manager at the plan to learn more about DME services. Refer to the health plan benefits handbook for more information.

Tip: Keep track of your child's DME on the Supplies/Equipment form in Chapter 1.

This information is provided by the Division of Perinatal, Early Childhood, and Special Health Needs within the Department of Public Health.