Durable medical equipment, often called DME, is used to assist people with disabilities or chronic conditions. This gear can help make everyday activities more accessible and more manageable. Durable medical equipment can be integral to your treatment plan, whether you’re living with a long-term illness or recovering from an injury.
Quality Recovery understands the needs of those with chronic conditions. Read along as our experts share some of their favorite pieces of equipment and how they can help you live a healthier life.
What is a Chronic Illness?
Chronic illnesses are conditions that last for more than three months and cannot be cured. These diseases often require ongoing medical attention and can cause serious health complications. Common chronic illnesses include heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and asthma.
Durable Medical Equipment Can Help!
Durable medical equipment can help people manage their chronic conditions by making everyday activities easier. For example, people with arthritis may use a mobility scooter to get around or a grabber tool to pick up items off the ground. Those with diabetes may use a blood sugar monitor to track their levels throughout the day.
No matter your chronic illness, some DME can likely help you manage it. The most significant thing is to discuss your situation with your doctor. They can help you find the right equipment to fit your needs and budget.
Here are a few DME that may be helpful for common chronic conditions:
Bone Stimulators are used to help treat conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. They work by sending electrical signals to the bones, which allows them to heal and grow stronger.
CPAP Masks – If you have sleep apnea, your doctor may prescribe a CPAP mask. This device is worn during sleep and helps keep your airway open, preventing pauses in your breathing.
Enteral Feeding Tubes – These tubes provide food and fluids to people who cannot eat or drink normally. Doctors use these for people with cerebral palsy, stroke, or cancer.
Insulin Pumps – If you have diabetes, your doctor may prescribe an insulin pump. This device delivers insulin directly to your bloodstream, which helps control blood sugar levels.
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy – is used to treat wounds that are slow to heal or have become infected. It works using negative pressure (vacuum) to remove fluid and debris from the wound site.
Ostomy Pouches – An ostomy pouch is a bag that collects urine or feces after surgery to create an ostomy. Ostomies are often needed after bowel or bladder cancer surgery, but they can be necessary for other reasons as well.
Pacemakers – A pacemaker is a battery-operated device implanted under the skin. It helps control abnormal heart rhythms by sending electrical pulses to your heart.
Takeaway:
As the name implies, Quality Recovery is dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality of care possible. That is why we offer Durable Medical Equipment (DME) services to our patients in Washington DC.
