A Guide to Medical Equipment Banks
Covered in this guide:
- Understanding Durable Medical Equipment
- What Is a Medical Equipment Bank?
- What You Should Know About Used Medical Equipment
- Types of Medical Equipment
- Where to Access Free Medical Equipment in Each State
- Expert Reviewer
Updated: June 27, 2023 | Reviewed by: Seana Kenefick
There are many devices that can help you maintain your independence as you age. From breathing assistance to mobility and sensory aids, durable medical equipment (DME) can help you stay safe and healthy and decrease your need for caregiver assistance. However, this equipment can be expensive, and it can be difficult to navigate the procedures for Medicaid, Medicare or other health insurance policies to get funding. This is where medical equipment banks can help.
Medical equipment banks are nonprofit or government organizations that assist people in accessing medical devices. It’s estimated that 2.5 million people in the United States use DME. This usage may be temporary or long-term, but it can allow users to better manage day-to-day activities and ease the burden on family caregivers and home care providers.
This guide has information about what DME is and when it's covered through health insurance. It also explains how medical equipment banks can help you access devices and includes a list of banks in every state.
Understanding Durable Medical Equipment
There are a number of terms used regularly when discussing DME, and it helps to understand what's meant by each one.
DME is equipment that's used for a medical reason and can withstand repeated use. Its expected lifetime is at least 3 years, and it isn’t useful to someone who isn’t sick or injured. People often picture wheelchairs or canes when they think of DME, but it can also include non-mobility devices such as breathing apparatus, certain diabetic supplies and infusion pumps.
It should be noted that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services defines DME as “appropriate for use in the home.” This means that Medicare and Medicaid may not cover DME intended for use outside the home, which can limit the equipment available through these programs.
The term assistive technology is also used when discussing DME, which is any device that makes life easier for people with disabilities. Unlike DME, assistive technology doesn’t need to be medical; it can include telephones, computer programs that aid communication, wheelchair ramps and more. Assistive equipment is another term for devices that can help people stay independent.
What Is a Medical Equipment Bank?
A medical equipment bank is a government or nonprofit organization that provides loans of DME and other assistive technology, or access to low-cost equipment. The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 made funding available for medical equipment programs, known as Assistive Technology Act Projects, in every state.
These ATAPs offer a range of services to seniors and people with disabilities. If you’re not sure what type of DME can help you, ATAPs can provide information on different devices and have staff available who can discuss your needs and help you decide what would work best. You can also get training on how to use equipment effectively.
However, the primary purpose of ATAPs is to help people access equipment. To achieve this, most have an equipment library that allows you to borrow DME to see if it works before you buy a device. Those who only need equipment temporarily, for example when recovering from surgery, may only require a loan of equipment.
Most medical equipment banks also sell or give away refurbished equipment. Alternatively, they may facilitate equipment exchanges where people can list second-hand devices for others to buy at a low cost. Some ATAPs also have grant or loan programs to help fund DME purchases or can connect you with financial assistance options.
How Medical Equipment Banks Help Seniors Access Immediate Assistance
Medicare Part B covers various types of durable medical equipment, but the process can take time and may not give you exactly what you require. Firstly, to be covered by Medicare, DME must be prescribed by a doctor. Both the doctor and the DME supplier also must be enrolled in Medicare.
Medicare will generally cover the least expensive option. If you require something more expensive, such as a powered wheelchair, you need to go back to the doctor for additional documentation. Medicare also doesn't cover certain types of DME, including hearing aids and glasses. And because Medicare covers DME for use at home, it can exclude certain devices that help you outside the home, such as a vehicle lift.
Getting DME through Medicaid can be more complicated, because every state has specific rules. States often have multiple programs and waivers with different criteria for funding DME. As a general rule, DME is covered if it’s medically necessary, but this is defined differently in each state. The same problems are encountered by seniors with private health insurance.
Medical equipment banks can help seniors access immediate support without needing to talk to a doctor or insurance company. Additionally, some equipment isn't considered DME for Medicare or Medicaid purposes because it has nonmedical uses, is used outside the home or isn't considered medically necessary. Equipment banks tend to have a broader definition of DME, or they offer assistive technology of all types, so seniors can access a wider range of equipment.
Who Qualifies for Free Medical Equipment?
Each state and medical equipment bank has specific eligibility rules for receiving free or low-cost devices. Generally, funds are available to people on a low-income who don’t have other ways to access DME. In most cases, seniors don’t need a doctor’s prescription to qualify for equipment through a bank, but they must have a functional need for the device. In most states, the assistance from ATAPs is free, including demonstrations and equipment loans.
What You Should Know About Used Medical Equipment
Not all DME can be reused. Some equipment is designed specifically for one person, with many adjustments to ensure it works optimally. Eyeglasses created to fit an individual's vision needs are a good example.
However, many types of DME can be refurbished and reused. Any equipment you access through a medical equipment bank is sterilized, cleaned and checked that it works correctly. Some equipment may need new parts to ensure it’s safe to use. This is especially true of breathing aids, which require new tubing to avoid passing on respiratory diseases.
Some states have equipment exchanges or marketplaces where people can buy or sell used DME. You should check the policies of these programs to ensure the listed equipment is cleaned and working correctly. If there aren't guarantees, make sure you're confident that the equipment you buy is in good repair or able to be refurbished.
Types of Medical Equipment
Wheelchairs and Accessories
Wheelchairs are used by people who find walking difficult or impossible. This can include people who have weakness in their legs, balance issues or those without the use of their legs.
There are different types of wheelchairs that meet specific needs.
There are different types of wheelchairs that meet specific needs.
- Manual Wheelchairs: A manual wheelchair is moved through human power, either by someone pushing it or the user rolling the wheels. These typically cost $1,000-$2,000.
- Powered Wheelchairs: A motor is used to move powered wheelchairs and are a good choice for people who also have upper body weakness. The average cost of a motorized wheelchair is $7,100.
- Specialized Wheelchairs: There are also specialized wheelchairs such as those designed for sports or the beach. These aren’t considered DME as they’re not medically necessary.
Accessories for wheelchairs include ramps and vehicle lifts.
- Portable Ramps: Generally lightweight and easy to move, portable ramps can be used to enter cars or buildings and ensure you always have wheelchair-accessible access. Costs vary depending on the size and type, but can range from $25 to hundreds of dollars.
- Vehicle Lifts: Used to place wheelchairs into a car, these lifts are commonly used with heavier, motorized wheelchairs or electric scooters. Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle you have, but generally start at $1,500.
Portable ramps and vehicle lifts may not be included in the government definition of DME, as they’re not used in the home. However, you may be able to access them through medical equipment banks.
Personal Mobility Devices
Personal mobility devices include items that help you stay mobile. This includes canes, walkers, crutches and braces. This category also includes larger, more expensive items, such as mobility scooters.
There are variations of each type of mobility device to suit the needs of individuals. For example, single canes can help those who need a small amount of support, while quad canes provide extra assistance to people with balance issues. Likewise, there are two-wheeled walkers for those who don’t need constant help and four-wheeled walkers that are easier to maneuver.
An equipment bank can let you try different types of mobility devices to see which works best for your needs. The cost for manual mobility aids generally range from $15-$100 for canes and $50-$160 for walkers.
Geriatric and Seat Lift Chairs
Geriatric and seat lift chairs are recliner-style seats that tip forward to help people stand. They’re a good choice for those who have difficulty getting out of armchairs, although they can be expensive to purchase with prices ranging from $500-$2,500 or more.
It’s also possible to get stand-assist cushions that have built-in motors. These also tilt forward to help people stand up. However, stand assists are a much more affordable option, with prices as low as $75.
Breathing Equipment
Various types of breathing equipment are classified as DME. Also called respiratory devices, these include:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines for sleep apnea
- Nebulizers for taking aerosolized medicines
- Oxygen masks
- Cannulas
- Oxygen carts
- Tracheostomy supplies, such as tube holders
If you’re using a breathing device, you may need to purchase additional supplies. Refurbished breathing devices may also need new tubes and other fittings.
Depending on your needs, breathing equipment can be expensive. Prices range from $35 for tracheostomy tube holders to $1,000 or more for CPAP machines.
Hospital Beds
Adjustable hospital beds have a lot of uses within the home. Lifting the knees and back can help improve continence, and these beds can facilitate improved cleanliness to minimize bed sores and UTIs. Hospital beds also increase mobility as they help people get out of bed independently.
For people confined to bed, either short- or long-term, a hospital bed can let them sit up during the day and get a comfortable sleep lying down at night. The bed's assist rails can also make it easier for caregivers to provide personal care.
Due to the size and the electronics involved, a new hospital bed can be expensive. Depending on the features and size of the bed, prices can range from $500-$10,000. Equipment banks can help people get access to a bed at an affordable cost, which is especially useful if it’s only needed temporarily. Some seniors may want to purchase a new mattress if they’re buying a refurbished bed.
Bedside Commodes
Bedside commodes are portable toilets. They consist of a chair with a hole in the seat and a container that attaches under the hole to catch waste. The container is emptied after use.
Commodes can reduce the risk of falls when traveling to and from a bathroom. They also help maintain dignity, as seniors can continue to toilet independently. As bedside commodes encourage an individual to get out of bed, they can reduce the likelihood of bedsores when compared to using a bedpan.
Prices for commodes can range from $45-$250, depending on the features.
Shower Chairs
Shower chairs are waterproof seats that provide a stable, secure platform for people to bathe. They can help those with mobility, strength and balance issues, as well as people who tire easily, maintain their independence and avoid falls.
The cost of shower chairs varies widely. Basic stools and chairs with and without backs can cost as little as $25. Rolling shower chairs equipped with regular or commode seats for use by people in wheelchairs can range in cost from $80 to several thousand dollars.
Sensory Aids
Sensory aids are a broad equipment category that covers any technology that enhances the senses. This includes hearing aids, glasses, magnifiers and speech output devices. Some sensory aids aren’t available through Medicaid and Medicare, including hearing aids and glasses. It can also be difficult to find refurbished sensory devices because they’re adjusted for a person’s specific needs.
However, some hearing aids can be repurposed. Generally, behind-the-ear hearing aids can be readjusted by a professional to ensure they work properly for someone else's needs. Other sensory aids, such as magnifiers, can often be found in equipment banks.
Costs for hearing aids can range from $100-$5,600, while eyeglasses cost an average of $196.
Where to Access Free Medical Equipment in Each State
Many states have multiple medical equipment banks, with some run at a city or county level. The state’s Assistive Technology Act Project is usually the best starting place to find DME resources.
State | Resource | Services | Contact |
Alabama | STAR helps people locate and obtain assistive technology. Services are free and available to all Alabamians, regardless of disability or age. Services include training, demonstrations, short-term equipment loans, equipment reutilization and alternative financing options. | (800) 782-7656 | |
Alaska | ATLA is a statewide resource center that helps people find and utilize the right assistive technology solution for their needs. Residents can also access demonstrations, assessments and short-term equipment loans. ATLA offers a number of programs that help people obtain devices for free or at a lower cost. | (800) 723-2852 | |
Arizona | AzTAP helps offers short-term device loans, operates an online reuse program and has affordable loans to help people purchase equipment. It also provides demonstrations, consultations, training and technical assistance. | (800) 477-9921 | |
Arkansas | iCAN is dedicated to making assistive technology accessible to Arkansans. It has a reuse program that reclaims and redistributes previously owned equipment. The organization also runs seminars and training and can help people find the right device. | (800) 828-2799 | |
California | Ability Tools has a device lending and demonstration center and runs an assistive technology exchange where people can buy, sell or borrow equipment. Ability Tools also operates financial loan and reuse programs and has a repair fund to help people fix broken wheelchairs. | (800) 390-2699 (option 1) | |
Colorado | The Assistive Technology Act Program of Colorado runs an Assistive Technology Clinic where people’s needs can be assessed. The program also has training, demonstrations, a device loan bank, a database of funding sources, can help people apply for funding, and a DME finder that helps people access devices at little or no cost. | (800) 255-3477 | |
Connecticut | CTTAP provides increased access to technology. It offers device demonstrations and a low-interest financial loan program to help people purchase devices. CTTAP works with a community partner that refurbishes gently used DME and resells it at a significant discount. | (800) 537-2549 | |
Delaware | DATI is run by the University of Delaware and operates Assistive Technology Resource Centers across the state. Visitors to the centers can describe what they need to specialists who can help them find a solution. It also has demonstration and loan programs, and runs an exchange for people looking to buy or sell equipment. | (800) 870-3284 | |
District of Columbia | The DC Assistive Technology Program provides education about the selection and use of assistive technology. It offers device demonstrations and loans and runs a DME recycling program that provides reused equipment free of charge to eligible residents. The program also has alternative financing for DME. | (202) 547-4747 | |
Florida | Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) | FAAST has a range of programs to help Floridians access DME and other assistive technology. This includes device loans, demonstrations and a reuse program. It also provides training, information and assistance and has a statewide financing program to help people afford devices. | (844) 353-2278 |
Georgia | Tools for Life aims to increase access to DME for Georgians of all ages. It provides demonstrations, evaluations and assessments to help people find the right tool. Additionally, the organization can help individuals access funding, has equipment available to borrow and offers reused equipment for free or at a low cost. | (404) 894-0541 | |
Hawaii | ATRC links people with assistive technology. It has a loan program so people can try DME before they make a purchase and also offers training on the use of devices. In addition, ATRC provides technical help for assistive technology. | (888) 202-4449 | |
Idaho | The Idaho Assistive Technology Project provides information and education about assistive technology and DME. In addition, it offers low-interest loans and other funding options to help people access DME. The IATP can also connect people with organizations that refurbish and distribute used DME. | (800) 432-8324 | |
Illinois | IATP helps people in Illinois access and properly use assistive technology and DME. Seniors can see and try devices, find training and access financial loans to purchase DME. In addition, IATP has a reuse program that provides gently used equipment at no cost to people in need and facilitates a buyer and seller exchange. | (800) 852-5110 | |
Indiana | In addition to equipment loans, demonstrations and training, INDATA can help Indianans access funding to purchase a device. The project also refurbishes some DME and has a free online equipment exchange for people who want to buy or sell gently used devices. | (888) 466-1314 | |
Iowa | Easterseals Iowa's Assistive Technology Program is available to Iowans of all ages and abilities. It can help people select the right device through evaluations, demonstrations and short-term loans. The project can also help people access funding to purchase devices. | (866) 866-8782 | |
Kansas | ATK serves Kansans throughout the state who require assistive technology. People can access product information, demonstrations, training, funding assistance and assessments. The program also has devices available for loan and a reuse and recycle program. | (800) 526-3648 | |
Kentucky | The KATS Network offers a range of services to help Kentucky residents access DME. This includes a library program for short-term equipment loans, demonstrations and assistance obtaining funding. In addition, it collects, refurbishes and redistributes devices to people in need. | (800) 327-5287 | |
Louisiana | LATAN offers a wide range of services for people who need assistive technology. This includes information and advice, technical assistance and training. LATAN can also loan devices to people and help Louisianans access alternative sources of funding for DME. | (800) 270-6185 | |
Maine | Maine Consumer Information and Technology Training Exchange (CITE) | Maine CITE helps improve access to assistive technology for residents of all ages. It offers a device loan program, demonstrations and training activities. In addition, there’s an equipment reuse program where people can buy, sell or donate used DME. | (207) 621-3195 |
Maryland | MDTAP has devices for loan at library locations across the state. In addition, it conducts demonstrations and consultations and offers a low-interest loan program. Marylanders can also access reused DME and a device exchange program. | (800) 832-4827 | |
Massachusetts | Massachusetts Maximizing Assistive Technology in Consumers’ Hands (MassMATCH) | MassMATCH has regional centers where people can learn about, try or borrow devices and an alternative finance program to help them purchase equipment. In addition, refurbished equipment is available free of charge to people in need. | (877) 508-3974 |
Michigan | The MATP is part of the Michigan Disability Resource Center. It maintains a directory of devices. In addition, people can access device loans, demonstrations and an exchange site for buying and selling used equipment. | (800) 578-0280 | |
Minnesota | Minnesota’s STAR program is also known as a System of Technology to Achieve Results. Its mission is to help people with disabilities access the tools they need in their daily lives. In addition to loan, exchange and demonstration programs, STAR promotes the reuse of refurbished equipment. | (888) 234-1267 | |
Mississippi | Project START offers device loan, reutilization and refurbishment programs to increase access to DME for Mississippi residents. People can also access device demonstrations to help decide which equipment will work best for their needs. | (800) 852-8328 | |
Missouri | Missouri Assistive Technology has a range of programs for people who would benefit from using AT devices. There are demonstration centers throughout the state where people can see and try devices. It also has a loan service and can help people find low-cost devices or funding for purchasing DME. | (800) 647-8557 | |
Montana | MonTECH, provides technology, support and other services to residents with disabilities. The program also has devices available to borrow and many can be shipped free of charge anywhere in the state. People can also access the community buy and sell program, and MonTECH has financial loans available to help individuals purchase devices. | (406) 243-5511 or (406) 657-2089 | |
Nebraska | The Assistive Technology Partnership helps people learn about and use assistive technology. Equipment loans and demonstrations are available at local offices, and the organization can help people find funding sources to purchase equipment. In addition, it has a reuse network that helps connect Nebraskans in need with gently used equipment. | (877) 713-4002 | |
Nevada | NATC provides device demonstrations and loans to help people make an informed choice about what they need. The organization also has a reutilization program that refurbishes, cleans and sells or gives away donated equipment to people in need. Repairs can also be undertaken to help delay the need to purchase a new device. | (800) 216-7988 | |
New Hampshire | ATinNH operates the state’s Assistive Technology Act Program. It provides training and outreach through classes and workshops. ATinNH also has equipment available for demonstrations and loans, and it partners with organizations that refurbish equipment and provide it to people at a reduced cost. | (603) 862-4320 | |
New Jersey | The Assistive Technology Advocacy Center makes assistive technology more accessible to people with disabilities throughout the state. It has devices available to borrow and conducts demonstrations to help people choose the right AT. In addition, its device reutilization program sells refurbished equipment to people at a greatly reduced cost. | (800) 922-7233 | |
New Mexico | NMTAP offers device loans that allow residents to try new equipment before they make a purchase and demonstrations and training to help ensure devices are used correctly. NMTAP also has a device reutilization program and provides loans to people who need help purchasing a device. | (877) 696-1470 | |
New York | The TRAID, or Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities, program helps New York residents access assistive devices. Regional TRAID centers offer device loans and hands-on training. In addition, TRAID centers accept donations of used equipment for repair and reutilization. | (800) 624-4143 | |
North Carolina | The North Carolina Assistive Technology Program provides services to people of all ages and abilities across the state. Residents can access device demonstrations and short-term loans, and the program also reutilizes gently used equipment. | (919) 855-3500 | |
North Dakota | North Dakota Assistive is a nonprofit organization that helps people access equipment through demonstrations, short-term trials and an equipment reuse program. It also has a Senior Safety Program that provides equipment to eligible people aged 60 and over. North Dakota Assistive can help people access loans and grants to purchase DME. | (800) 895-4728 | |
Ohio | Assistive Technology of Ohio has a lending library that can help people try a range of devices including aids to daily living. It also offers demonstrations so people can understand how best to use devices. The organization has a refurbishment and reutilization program and can provide technical assistance and training. | (800) 784-3425 | |
Oklahoma | The core programs of ABLE Tech are device loans, demonstrations and reutilization. The organization also has a financial program that provides low-interest loans to help people purchase DME. In addition, ABLE Tech offers education and training programs to help disabled people and the public better understand adaptive technology. | (800) 257-1705 | |
Oregon | Access Technologies, Inc. provides information and services to help people access DME. It has a demonstration and lending library so individuals can explore their options, provides information on alternative financing solutions and connects people with affordable new and used equipment. | (800) 677-7512 | |
Pennsylvania | TechOWL is Pennsylvania’s assistive technology program. It has a lending library, used equipment program and device demonstrations. TechOWL also uses new 3D printer technology to design and create personalized devices for free to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. | (800) 204-7428 | |
Rhode Island | The Rhode Island ATAP is an umbrella organization that consists of smaller groups with a targeted assistive technology focus. ATAP partners include groups centered on education, telephone equipment and independent living. The organizations concentrate on device loans and demonstrations, equipment reuse and information and referral services. | (401) 462-7873 | |
South Carolina | SCATP has a team of specialists who demonstrate devices and provide training and workshops. It facilitates an exchange where people can buy and sell used equipment and also collects and refurbishes used equipment to distribute to people in need. In addition, SCATP loans out devices so residents can try them before they make a purchase. | (800) 915-4522 | |
South Dakota | South Dakotans can access assistive technology evaluations, device demonstrations and equipment loans through DakotaLink. The organization also has used equipment for sale and administers low-interest loans to help people purchase assistive devices. | (800) 645-0673 | |
Tennessee | TTAP is a statewide service that provides funding assistance, device demonstrations, equipment loans and device reutilization to increase access to assistive technology. It partners with assistive technology centers throughout the state to offer these services to people with disabilities wherever they live, and also works closely with communities to encourage people to make use of these devices. | (800) 732-5059 | |
Texas | TTAP has 17 demonstration centers around the state where people can see devices in use and try a number of options to determine the most appropriate choice for their needs. It also offers a loan library, reuse program and financing options to help people access DME | (800) 828-7839 | |
Utah | UATP aims to put assistive technology into the hands of people who need it. It has three locations in the state where people can see demonstrations or borrow devices. There's also a device reuse program and classified ad site where people can buy or sell used equipment. | (800) 524-5152 | |
Vermont | VATP offers opportunities for people to try DME with an access specialist and also has a loan program so individuals can try devices prior to purchase. VATP facilitates an equipment exchange where people can buy and sell affordable used devices and maintains a funding guide to help them find financial assistance to buy equipment. | (800) 750-6355 | |
Virginia | VATS maintains a device exchange program where people can sell or donate gently used equipment and supports reuse sites across the state that refurbish and redistribute DME. It also offers demonstrations and short-term equipment loans and can help people connect with low-interest loans to purchase assistive technology, including vehicles and home modifications. | (800) 552-5019 | |
Washington | WATAP is located at the University of Washington Center for Technology and Disability Studies. It has a device loan program and provides demonstrations of equipment. WATAP helps people acquire DME through alternative financing, a classified service and an equipment reuse program. | (800) 214-8731 | |
West Virginia | WVATS offers a needs assessment survey to identify devices that can help seniors and has equipment available for short-term loans. It also offers device demonstration and training, technical assistance and a reuse program that provides equipment to residents free of charge. | (800) 841-8436 | |
Wisconsin | WisTech provides information on selecting, financing and using assistive technology. Residents can attend training, see a demonstration or borrow equipment. WisTech also operates a reutilization and exchange program and has financial loans available to help people buy equipment. | (608) 514-2513 | |
Wyoming | WATR offers information and assistance to answer questions about assistive technology and help people identify device and funding options. It also conducts training and demonstrations and has a reuse program. Additionally, WATR offers a special program, WyRamp, that allows people to borrow access ramps for the home. | (888) 989-9463 |
Expert Reviewer
Seana Kenefick
LinkedIn Profile
Seana Kenefick is a Resource Coordinator for the Center for Healthy Aging in Hartford, CT, who provides in-home assessments, connections to services and assists with long-range planning. In times of stress, navigating the healthcare and social systems can be overwhelming. Seana helps guide people through this complicated maze. Seana is committed and compassionate about helping individuals and their families. She is a strong advocate and experienced in connections to community resources, state programs and CHOICES counseling.
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