Many medical devices are rented by Medicare. Most rented items are classified as a “capped rental item”. This means that it will be rented for a period of 13 months. After the 13th month, payment to the provider stops. However, the patient keeps the device as long as it is medically necessary.

Medicare considers the useful lifetime of a product to be five years. They will not purchase another of the same product within that period unless there is a significant change in the medical condition.  This is why it is vitally important that you receive quality products that will last.

One exception to the five year rule are glucometers. They can be replaced after 36 months.

In 2006 Medicare changed their policy regarding oxygen equipment.