Where OTs Find FREE DME (or a Smokin' Deal) for Patients

Where to Find FREE DME Supplies for OT Patients

In an ideal world, all of our occupational therapy (OT) patients would be able to get all the adaptive equipment and DME supplies that they need and get it paid for. This, of course, is not the reality and many occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) end up scrambling around to find durable medical equipment (DME) that our patients can afford, help with their independence and safety in daily living.

I typically recommend all OTPs have a DME supplies list of local places that patients and their families can either get DME for free, at a low price or purchase. The list would include phone numbers and the websites of all the businesses that they can contact (or for you to contact if you are helping!) for easy reference.

 

As an OTP, trying to find DME supplies for patients can be a challenge - check out this list! | OTflourish.com

 

Many times this information is very location specific, but here is a starting point of groups to look into or help spur some creative thinking on how we can get some of this equipment our patients

Free and Discounted DME Medical Equipment

 

Facebook: If you check out your local “Swap” group, many times, patient’s/families can request a donation of used bedside commodes, shower chairs, etc or even search for items that people are donating. An example of DME supplies near me is my local Facebook Community Swap where I see DME supplies all the time!

Loan Closets: Many communities have loan closets, but the trick is figuring out where to find them! Here are a few examples of places to contact to see if they loan DME for free or a small fee:

  • Social Clubs: Elks Club, Eagles, Moose Lodge, VFW, American Legion Auxiliary, VFW, Lions
  • Hospice Organizations
  • Senior Centers
  • Churches

Craigslist.org: This is an online classified advertisement website. Under the “For Sale” section on the site, there is both a “Free” tab, where you might be able to find some DME or find a good deal on some equipment under the “For Sale” section.

There is also a “Wanted” tab that may be worth putting out feelers for any durable medical equipment that a patient may need.

theDMElist.com: Started by a physical therapist, this website lets people post durable medical equipment they want to get rid of, as well as lets people post what types of equipment they are looking for – many more options in bigger cities.

Freecycle.org: This is a website that is all about connecting people that are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns and neighborhoods, including DME.

Thrift Stores: Many shops have a special section in their stores just for DME.

Local Newspapers: There is usually a section in the classifieds labeled, “Medical Equipment,” that is worth looking into.

As an #OT, trying to find DME for patients can be a challenge - check out this list! | OTflourish.com #geriatricOT #occupationaltherapy

Non-Profit Organizations and Foundations: There are a number of these groups that can help either financially or by providing free, long term loans of DME. A few of these include:

State Funded Programs

 Where have you found free or discounted DME for patients?

 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Join us!

    Not feeling confident working with older adults in your OT practice? If you are new to working in SNF or Home Health, we are here to level up your practice! Join the OT Accelerator today! | OTflourish.com/membership
  • Learn👇 how to write OT goals that WON’T be denied & make treatment planning easier!

    Occupational therapy Goal Writing & Goal Bank Guide ebook teaches you the step-by-step approach to writing rock solid COAST goals & practical tips for goal setting in an easy color coded format with outcome measure examples & a goal bank of LTG and STGs. | OTflourish.com
  • Medbridge promo code: FLOURISH for $150 off unlimited CEUs

    Medbridge Promo code: FLOURISH for $150 off unlimited CEUs | OTflourish.com
  • OccupationalTherapy.com promo code: FLOURISH13 & get 1 extra month FREE of unlimited CEUs

    Use promo: FLOURISH for 1 extra month free of unlimited OT CEUs | OTflourish.com
  • Share
    Share