With Original Medicare
Medicare.gov says that if Original Medicare already paid for durable medical equipment or supplies that were damaged or lost in an emergency or disaster, Medicare will cover the cost to repair or replace them in most cases, but only when you get them from a Medicare-approved supplier. If your equipment needs repair, Medicare will usually cover a rental, such as a loaner wheelchair, in the meantime. CMS's disaster training explains how replacement works:
| Type of equipment | What happens if it's lost or destroyed |
|---|---|
| Equipment you own (for example, a manual wheelchair or walker) | Medicare pays for a replacement. |
| Capped-rental items (for example, a CPAP or hospital bed) | Replaced by starting a new rental period, such as 13 months for a CPAP. |
| Oxygen equipment | Replaced, with a new 36-month payment period, with proper documentation. |
| Items needing frequent and substantial servicing (for example, ventilators) | Medicare doesn't pay to replace these; they're paid as an ongoing rental (42 CFR 414.222), so call the supplier. |
With Medicare Advantage
CMS says Medicare Advantage plans must make sure members can access or replace equipment after a disaster. When it's medically necessary, the plan must let you repair or replace equipment out of network at in-network rates, so an evacuated member pays what they would have paid at home. Call the plan; the number is on your card, or 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048) can give it to you.
What to do after a flood
- Call your supplier first. Report what was lost or damaged and ask what documentation it needs. Take photos if you safely can.
- If you evacuated without your equipment, ask for a temporary replacement. An alternate Medicare-enrolled supplier near where you're staying can provide one.
- Find a supplier through Medicare's medical equipment supplier directory or 1-800-MEDICARE.
- Using oxygen? Ask your supplier how it will reach you. CMS says the supplier is responsible for arranging for your needs before an emergency and may switch you to tanks during a power outage.
- Keep receipts for anything you pay for, and appeal any denial using your Medicare Summary Notice.
In North Carolina
Hurricane Helene's federal disaster declaration, DR-4827-NC, gave individual assistance to 39 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, most of them in the western mountains and foothills. If you live in a flood-prone county, take photos of your equipment and its serial numbers now, and keep your supplier's phone number with your medicine list. FEMA assistance (DisasterAssistance.gov) is separate from Medicare.
More in hurricanes, floods and Medicare in North Carolina, or request a call from a licensed insurance agent.
Related questions
What happens to my Medicare after a hurricane?
What changes after a declaration.
Can I get an early refill before a hurricane?
Drug plans and North Carolina law.
Can I see an out-of-network doctor after a hurricane?
Medicare Advantage disaster rules.
Sources
- Medicare.gov — Getting care in a disaster or emergency
- CMS — Replacing DME and Prescription Drugs after a Disaster
- eCFR — 42 CFR 414.222, items requiring frequent and substantial servicing
- Medicare.gov — Find medical equipment and suppliers
- FEMA — DR-4827-NC, Tropical Storm Helene
More questions in this guide
- Can I get an early prescription refill before a hurricane in North Carolina?
- Can I see an out-of-network doctor after a hurricane in North Carolina?
- Is there a Medicare special enrollment period after a disaster in North Carolina?
- What happens to my Medicare after a hurricane in North Carolina?
Part of the guide: Hurricanes, Floods and Your Medicare in North Carolina · All questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a disaster declaration for Medicare to replace equipment?
No. CMS says equipment lost or destroyed without a presidential disaster declaration can be replaced through standard procedures. A declaration with a public health emergency can add temporary flexibilities under Section 1135 waivers.
Does replacing rented equipment restart the rental?
Yes. CMS says replacing a rented capped-rental item starts a new rental period, such as a new 13-month period for a CPAP, and replacing lost oxygen equipment starts a new 36-month payment period.
Can I get a temporary wheelchair or bed if I evacuated?
Yes. With Original Medicare, if you couldn't bring your equipment, an alternate Medicare-enrolled supplier can provide a temporary replacement until you return to your regular supplier. Call your supplier or 1-800-MEDICARE to find one.
Medicare in your North Carolina county
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