Women holding sign that states" Medi-cal saved my mental health. Now I am back to work"

The DME Challenge Part 2

Written by: Christine Fitzgerald, Community Advocate, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center Not all situations and needs are the same, and this extends to medical needs.  Without insurance coverage, many would be forced to choose between DME and basic needs, like food or housing.  As it is, many people already have to make this choice between…

back view of individual in a manual wheelchair

The DME Challenge Part 1

Written by: Christine Fitzgerald, Community Advocate, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center When I think of what life might be like without access to Durable Medical Equipment (DME), it makes me think of living in earlier times.  Not too long ago many of us would have been forced to live in institutions where we would most…

Are insurance companies required to cover durable medical equipment (DME)?

    by: Kim Cantrell CFILC’s Director of Programs Do you know what your health insurance policy covers when it comes to durable medical equipment (DME)? But first, what exactly is durable medical equipment? According to Medicare.gov, durable medical equipment must: have a lifespan of at least 3 years; be used for a medical reason…