If you or a loved one needs a walker, wheelchair, commode chair or incontinence supplies, the first question is usually the same: does Medicare cover medical supplies? The answer depends on the type of coverage you have, the item you need and the supplier you use.

This guide explains how Medicare and Ohio Medicaid coverage works for durable medical equipment (DME) and supplies in 2026, what Medicare costs, and the questions to ask before you order. ABD Medical is a medical supply provider in Dayton, Ohio, enrolled in Medicare and Ohio Medicaid.

The Four Parts of Medicare at a Glance

Medicare coverage is organized into four main parts. Knowing which one you have is the first step to understanding your equipment benefits.

Coverage	What it does
Part A (Hospital Insurance)	Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice and some home health care
Part B (Medical Insurance)	Covers doctor visits, outpatient care and durable medical equipment
Part C (Medicare Advantage)	Private plans approved by Medicare that bundle Part A and Part B, and usually Part D
Part D (Drug Coverage)	Helps pay for prescription drugs

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) is a separate private policy that works with Original Medicare. It can help pay costs Medicare does not, such as the 20% coinsurance. You cannot buy Medigap if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan.

Does Medicare Cover Durable Medical Equipment?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment that is medically necessary and ordered by your doctor or other health care provider for use in your home.

Medicare considers an item DME when it is durable, used for a medical reason, typically useful only to someone who is sick or injured, and expected to last at least three years.

Examples of DME Medicare May Cover

• Canes, crutches and walkers
• Commode chairs and hospital beds
• Wheelchairs and scooters
• Blood sugar monitors, test strips and lancets
• Oxygen equipment and CPAP devices
• Infusion pumps and supplies

This list is not complete. Coverage for any item depends on your medical need and your doctor's documentation.

How Much Does Medicare Pay for Medical Equipment in 2026?

Under Original Medicare, you pay 20% of the Medicare approved amount for covered DME after you meet the Part B deductible, as long as your supplier accepts assignment.

• 2026 Part B deductible: $283 per year
• 2026 standard Part B premium: $202.90 per month

Source: CMS 2026 Medicare Parts A and B Premiums and Deductibles

A Medigap policy may help cover your 20% share. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your costs follow your plan's rules, and plans set a yearly limit on what you pay for covered services.

Why Supplier Assignment Matters

Medicare only pays for equipment from suppliers enrolled in Medicare. A supplier that accepts assignment agrees to the Medicare approved amount, so it can only charge you the coinsurance and deductible. A supplier that does not accept assignment may charge you more. For rented equipment, the supplier must accept assignment for every rental month, or you may have to pay the full cost upfront and wait for Medicare to reimburse you.

Depending on the item, Medicare may require you to rent it, buy it, or let you choose. Some rented items become yours after a set number of payments.

Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage for Equipment

Question	Original Medicare	Medicare Advantage
Which suppliers can I use?	Any Medicare enrolled supplier	Usually suppliers in the plan's network
Do I need approval first?	In most cases, no	Some items may need prior authorization
Can I add Medigap?	Yes	No
Yearly out of pocket limit?	No, unless you have supplemental coverage	Yes, set by the plan

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your plan to confirm whether a supplier is in network before you order.

Does Ohio Medicaid Cover Medical Supplies?

Ohio Medicaid covers durable medical equipment and medical supplies when they are medically necessary and meet state rules. Many items need a prescription, and some need prior authorization. If you are enrolled in an Ohio Medicaid managed care plan, contact your plan to learn its approval requirements.

Ohio Medicaid Coverage for Incontinence Supplies

Original Medicare does not cover incontinence supplies or adult diapers. Ohio Medicaid covers them for eligible members under Ohio Administrative Code 5160-10-21:

• A certificate of medical necessity from your provider is required, listing the diagnosis, type of incontinence, and the items and quantity prescribed
• Coverage is available for individuals at least 36 months old
• Supplies are dispensed one month at a time
• Prior authorization is needed for quantities above the standard limit or a change in item type
• A certification period lasts up to 12 months

ABD Medical is an Ohio Medicaid provider. Browse our incontinence supplies and adult diapers and underwear, or call us with questions about Medicaid coverage.

If You Have Both Medicare and Medicaid

If you qualify for both programs, call the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline at 1-800-324-8680 to learn how your coverage works together and whether you qualify for help with Medicare costs.

Questions to Ask Before You Order Medical Equipment

• Is this item covered by my plan, and what will I pay?
• Do I need a prescription or a certificate of medical necessity?
• Does my plan require prior authorization?
• Is the supplier enrolled in Medicare and does it accept assignment?
• Is the supplier in my plan's network?
• Will I rent or buy this item?
• Are there quantity or replacement limits?

What Insurance May Not Cover

Insurance coverage is based on medical necessity, so upgraded features, comfort extras and convenience items may not be covered. Some families choose to buy everyday items like shower chairs and raised toilet seats on their own to make home life safer. Our aging in place checklist can help you decide what your home needs, and you can browse mobility and daily living aids online.

How to Get Covered Equipment from ABD Medical

1. See your doctor. Ask whether the item is medically necessary for you and request a written order or prescription.
2. Send us your documents. Fax your prescription, certificate of medical necessity and insurance information to 1-888-224-5006, or have your doctor's office fax them for you. You can also call (513) 988-8550 with questions.
3. We check your coverage. Our team verifies your Medicare, Ohio Medicaid or other insurance benefits and explains what to expect.
4. We handle the billing. We submit the claim and any required paperwork to your insurance.
5. Receive your equipment. We let you know how and when your item will be provided.

ABD Medical is accredited by HQAA and the BBB and accepts Medicare, Ohio Medicaid and most insurance plans. Insurance billing is available for patients in Ohio only. Customers outside Ohio can buy products online at abdmed.com and pay directly.

Free Help with Medicare and Medicaid Questions in Ohio

• Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP): free, unbiased Medicare counseling at 1-800-686-1578
• Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline: 1-800-324-8680
• Medicare: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or medicare.gov
• ABD Medical: call (513) 988-8550, fax insurance documents to 1-888-224-5006, or visit 270 Regency Ridge Dr, Suite 104, Dayton, OH 45459

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare cover medical supplies?

Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment and some supplies, such as diabetic testing supplies, when they are medically necessary and ordered by your doctor. You usually pay 20% of the Medicare approved amount after the Part B deductible.

What is the Medicare Part B deductible in 2026?

The 2026 Part B deductible is $283. The standard Part B premium is $202.90 per month.

Does Medicare cover adult diapers or incontinence supplies?

Original Medicare does not cover incontinence supplies or adult diapers. Ohio Medicaid covers them for eligible members with a certificate of medical necessity. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, contact your plan to ask about coverage.

Do I need a prescription for Medicare to cover equipment?

Yes. Medicare covers DME only when your doctor or other health care provider orders it as medically necessary for use in your home.

How do I know if a supplier accepts Medicare?

Ask the supplier whether it is enrolled in Medicare and accepts assignment. You can also search the supplier directory on medicare.gov.

How do I send my documents to ABD Medical for insurance billing?

Fax your prescription, certificate of medical necessity and insurance information to 1-888-224-5006, or have your doctor's office fax them. Call (513) 988-8550 with any questions.

Can I get insurance billing if I live outside Ohio?

ABD Medical provides insurance billing for patients in Ohio only. Customers in other states can buy products online at abdmed.com and pay directly.

This article is for general information only and is not legal, medical or insurance advice. Coverage depends on your specific plan, eligibility and medical need. Medicare figures are current for 2026. Contact Medicare, Ohio Medicaid or your plan for decisions about your coverage.