Where to Begin

There’s an infinite amount of adaptive technology (AT) that may be helpful to individuals. AT obtained through insurance is known as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). There’s a limited number of items to pursue through insurance, and this page provides information about how to do so! For equipment that is not covered by insurance, check out More AT

In order to obtain DME you will need a prescription from a medical provider. Usually the insurance company will also require that a licensed therapist (PT, OT or ST) do a formal assessment. This assessment is documented in a “letter of medical necessity” (LMN) that is co-signed by the physician. The DME Vendor rounds out the team by bringing in a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) to help in the selection of appropriate technology, provide training, and maintain and repair the equipment. The vendor submits paperwork for insurance company review. Once approved the equipment is ordered. Delivery and fitting by the ATP ideally takes place with a PT present. The entire process, start to finish, ideally is completed within about 3 months.

Identifying a therapist is a key step in the DME process. To help with this step, click here for a directory of therapists in our region. It is also important to keep in mind that where equipment is used determines who writes the LMN.

For an overview of the DME process, check out vendor flowsheets below. You can also create an account with your vendor’s online portal system to track in-progress equipment orders. For assistance in identifying a DME vendor to work with, click here.

• National Seating and Mobility

  • DME Flowsheet

  • Online Tracking Portal

• Numotion

  • DME Flowsheet

  • Online Tracking Portal