If you are a care-giver then you may already know a lot about home medical supplies. But for many, the world of home medical supplies and equipment is a complete mystery. It can be challenging enough to have to provide home health care but it may be frustrating trying to learn how to use the aids that make life easier for those who need nursing care. If you have never cared for anyone before then you are going to need to learn a lot about the various types of medical supplies that can be used at home.
People who are caring for someone in the short term could consider hiring home medical supplies. But full time care-givers who are looking after someone for the long term may find it easier to buy invalid medical equipment. In the first instance you will need to determine the type of home medical equipment you need to hire or buy. If you are baffled by the amount of invalid equipment on offer then ask the nurse or physician for advice.
There are numerous online stores that sell medical equipment and it is advisable to locate an online supplier that has been trading for many years. It may not prove too difficult to operate a walker of a wheelchair but it could prove far more challenging to learn how to use other medical devices. If you are expected to use a nebulizer, an infusion pump or any other respiratory assist device then you will need some form of instruction. In general the home medical supplier should proffer some help.
When the home medical equipment is delivered the suppliers should ensure that is set-up correctly. The home environment should be safe and suitable so that the medical apparatus can be used properly. The suppliers should offer training to the patient and the caregivers. They need to be able to use, clean and maintain this equipment properly. Naturally the care-givers and the patient will have responsibilities and the home medical equipment suppliers should remind them of their obligations. Some medical equipment that is used within the home will need regular maintenance and in general that is the supplier’s job.
If you need to hire or buy home medical equipment then you should check out your health insurance. Medicare and medical health insurance will often cover the costs of any home health apparatus needed. A senior family member who does not have health insurance may be provided for under a son or daughters health insurance policy.
