20%Your share after the deductible
$283Part B deductible, 2026
13 monthsTypical rental period for many items
36 monthsOxygen equipment rental
What counts as durable medical equipment
Part B covers equipment that is medically necessary, ordered by your treating doctor for use in your home, able to withstand repeated use, and generally expected to last at least three years.
Commonly covered items
- Walkers, canes, and crutches
- Manual and power wheelchairs and scooters when you meet the requirements
- Hospital beds
- Oxygen equipment and supplies
- CPAP machines for sleep apnea
- Blood sugar monitors and test strips
- Nebulizers and some other respiratory equipment
What is generally not covered
- Home modifications such as grab bars, stair lifts, and ramps
- Most bathroom safety items and convenience items
- Over-the-counter supplies not prescribed as equipment
What you pay
| Item | Your cost in Original Medicare |
|---|---|
| Covered equipment | Part B deductible ($283 in 2026), then 20% of the Medicare-approved amount |
| Rental items | 20% of the approved monthly rental amount |
| If the supplier does not accept assignment | They can charge more than the Medicare-approved amount |
Rent or buy?
Medicare handles many items as rentals. For many items, once you have rented for 13 months you own the equipment. Oxygen equipment is rented for 36 months, after which the supplier must keep providing it for up to two more years (five years in total).
How to get equipment covered
- Your doctor must see you and write an order that states your medical need, and for some items, document a face-to-face exam.
- Use a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment, so you pay only the 20%.
- Ask whether the item needs prior authorization. Some items, such as certain power mobility devices, do.
- Confirm the supplier will provide repairs and replacement within the rental period.
Use the right supplier. A supplier who does not participate in Medicare can charge more and may require payment up front. Search for enrolled suppliers at Medicare.gov. With Medicare Advantage, use your plan's network suppliers.
Medigap Plan G covers the 20% coinsurance after the Part B deductible. See Plan G vs Plan N, and home health coverage.