| Many individuals look forward to when they turn 65 | | | | to iron lungs and oxygen tents. For those with diabetes, |
| years old. For the majority of them, they finally get to | | | | regardless of what type, Medicare will cover the cost |
| retire after nearly 40 years of work and are now | | | | of blood-testing strips and blood glucose. |
| eligible for the government's health insurance program, | | | | All of the equipment covered by Medicare is subject |
| Medicare, and Social Security. As a result, they know | | | | to necessity of course. Individuals need to prove their |
| they will be taken care of so they can retire without | | | | need with a note from a doctor. Several large and |
| worry. Medicare was signed into law on July 30, 1965 | | | | small companies carry durable medical equipment |
| during the Lyndon B Johnson administration. As part of | | | | because a growing number of US citizens are falling |
| the ceremony, President Johnson handed out the very | | | | under Medicare. If you have Medicare and need a |
| first Medicare card to former President Harry S. | | | | certain item, there is a possibility that it is covered by |
| Truman. Not only will President Truman be | | | | Title XVII. Before you make any expensive purchases, |
| remembered as the United State's thirty-third president, | | | | check with your doctor or a medical equipment supply |
| he will also be known as the first Medicare beneficiary! | | | | company to see if Medicare will cover the cost of that |
| Medicare does not only cover health insurance for | | | | item. Saving money is always a good thing! |
| those over 65 years of age; other special groups of | | | | High quality medical equipment is extremely expensive |
| individuals also fall under its umbrella of care. One such | | | | and that is why so many people are thankful for |
| exception is those who have Amyotrophic Lateral | | | | Medicare in this country. It is a relief to know that you |
| Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig's disease. The term | | | | can get the medical treatment you need after you |
| durable medical equipment is used specifically to mean | | | | retire. Several articles online will tell you more about |
| the equipment for which Medicare is obligated to pay | | | | durable medical equipment. Make sure you know what |
| under Title XVII of the Social Security Act. This | | | | you are eligible for before you pay the expenses out |
| equipment ranges from wheelchairs and hospital beds | | | | of your own wallet! |