Medicare Coverage for Durable Medical Equipment: Basics, Costs, and Paperwork
A plain-language overview of how Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment, what paperwork you need, and how costs usually work.
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Medicare Part B generally covers durable medical equipment that a treating practitioner orders for use in the home when it is medically necessary. Durable means the item can withstand repeated use. Examples include walkers, wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen equipment, and CPAP machines. Coverage depends on your diagnosis, the specific item, and the supplier you use.
How do costs usually work?
After you meet the yearly Part B deductible, Medicare typically pays 80 percent of the approved amount and you pay 20 percent, provided the supplier accepts assignment. Supplemental coverage may pay part of your share. The assignment guide explains why the supplier's assignment status matters.
What paperwork is required?
Expect to need a written or electronic order from your treating practitioner and supporting medical records. Some items, such as CPAP devices, also need test results or follow-up documentation. The supplier can tell you which documents are missing, but the clinical records must come from your care team.
Does the supplier you choose matter?
Yes. You should use a supplier that is enrolled in Medicare. In some areas, competitive bidding rules can limit which suppliers can provide certain items, and the rules change over time, so confirm current requirements on Medicare.gov. Compare nearby options with the state directory or the ZIP code lookup.
How does this relate to Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans must cover what Original Medicare covers, but they may use networks, prior authorization, and different cost sharing. If you have an Advantage plan, ask the plan which suppliers are in network before you order.
Frequently asked questions
Does Medicare cover every medical equipment item?
No. Coverage depends on medical necessity, a valid order, and the specific item. Some items are not covered at all.
Is this site an official Medicare resource?
No. This site is independent and organizes public supplier data. Use Medicare.gov for official coverage rules.
Where should you go next?
Continue with a related guide, browse the equipment families this topic touches, or look up suppliers in your state.
- Medicare Assignment Explained
- Rent or Buy Medical Equipment?
- Mobility aids and wheelchairs
- Respiratory and oxygen equipment
- Diabetes supplies
- Suppliers by state
- ZIP code lookup
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Verify coverage details with Medicare, your plan, and your clinician.
- Medicare.gov: Medicare Coverage of Durable Medical Equipment & Other Devices (PDF)
- Medicare.gov: official tool to find medical equipment suppliers
- CMS: DMEPOS information center
- Medicare.gov: Walkers
- Medicare.gov: Hospital beds
- Medicare.gov: Wheelchairs & scooters
Last reviewed: November 11, 2026. This guide summarizes Medicare's published materials in plain language. It has not been reviewed by a licensed clinician. See our editorial policy and methodology.