Talk to the Doc!

One of the things I've found as we've gone about the process of purchasing medical equipment, is that Parkinson's (as most diseases) is different for everybody AND every body. In other words, if someone tells you you'll need such-and-such at 20 years into the disease, you may or may not have need of it. You may require something entirely different than someone else with the same number of years with the disease.

Another thing that makes buying medical equipment a challenge, is there are not a lot of places you can go and try something out before you purchase it. Most of the equipment is available online, but you cannot try maneuverability, fit, or ease-of-use before you order. Something as simple as a carpeted floor instead of a laminate, can make all the difference. And you won't necessarily be able to access that information from the item's description.

However, I can offer a few places where help and demo equipment is available. Your local Bischoff's or Medical Supply Store usually hires experienced people who know their products. There are always exceptions to the rule, but for the most part the employees know how their equipment works. Things like scooters, walkers, safety bars, lift chairs, and canes are all items carried by most Medical Supply Stores. Most of the stores also have demonstration items you can try on for size.

We recently had to purchase a couple of lift recliners as Jamey is having trouble getting off the couch these days (on the days he can actually get ON the couch!). I was very impressed with Bischoff's selection. They had a sample of each of their 8 lift recliners; everything from 3-positions to 5 positions. It was nice to be able to try the different chairs. I'm glad they had demos because Jamey chose something entirely different than what I would have gotten him, had I been on my own. Amazing how many models they have--and each one is so different! Very important to try-before-you-buy. But not gonna happen if you order on the internet.

But if at all possible, I encourage you to go through your doctor for all your medical equipment. Even if your insurance won't pay for the particular item, talk to your doctor first. They know you best and can order what will suit your needs better than you or your caregiver can determine searching the internet. Most doctor's offices have something in place to help them assess what you need.

For instance, Kaiser has a department called DME (Durable Medical Equipment). It is accessed by their doctors, PTs and specialists who determine what the patient needs. If Jamey's Neurologist identifies a need, he will recommend it to the PT, who will assess the size and ability of Jamey before placing the order. Doctors and PTs work closely to determine what the patient needs. In turn, if I feel Jamey needs something to help him move better, I talk to his Neurologist and he either orders it for him or starts the process through the PT again. When the doctor orders the item, it fits right and benefits the patient much better. I have personally had my own doctor recommend a product and go through the HMO's procedure, even if my insurance isn't going to pay for it. That way I am sure I'm getting something that is right for me! And since I'm paying for it myself, it is all the more important.

The internet has everything you could possibly want to help you with symptoms of illness or disease. But from experience I can tell you, it doesn't always work out if you cannot try it first. Talk to your doctor about your next purchase. Of course, for things like power chairs, patient lifts, and transfer equipment, you should go through your doctor, regardless. But, for everything else, start with your doctor first. If nothing else, he can recommend a superior product or direct you to the best place to buy it!