Which statement about Durable Medical Equipment (DME) coverage is true?

• A. DME is always rented with no option to purchase.
• B. DME coverage includes rental or purchase options with a monthly cap.
• C. DME is never covered by Medicare.
• D. DME requires prior authorization for all items.

Answer: (B)

Durable Medical Equipment coverage is designed to fit real needs by offering options rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. When Medicare covers DME, you can obtain the equipment either by renting it or purchasing it, depending on what’s appropriate for the item and how long it’s needed. A monthly cap on rental charges helps control costs while you use the equipment. If you expect to need the device long-term, purchasing may be the better option. That combination—rental or purchase with a monthly rental cap—is what makes this statement true. The other options don’t fit Medicare coverage in the same way: DME isn’t always rented, it can be purchased, Medicare does cover DME when criteria are met, and prior authorization isn’t universally required for every DME item.