Obtaining Medical Equipment and Accessible Transportation

As parents of children with disabilities, we sometimes need specific medical equipment—e.g., wheelchairs, hospital beds, walkers, or assistive technology. We also often need accessible transportation. Too often, Medicaid and private insurance do not cover these.

Here are a few agencies that may help:

• The Muscular Dystrophy Association has resources and an online application for certain types of medical equipment.
• Special Kids Fund helps families who may need accessible transportation they cannot afford. It may take a while to obtain, but it is worth the effort.

There are other ways to find funding for medical equipment. Local businesses may donate resources. You can also search online for agencies that can help you connect to these potential donors.

Here is an example:

A family needed an orthotic helmet for their infant, who was diagnosed with plagiocephaly. The infant needed the helmet prior to turning 1 year old or it wouldn’t help. The helmet was partially covered by Medicaid, but the balance was owed by the family.

A local agency, Paso del Norte Children’s Development Center, reached out to a local business that was willing to help. The business provided the extra money needed to buy the orthotic helmet. That same business also helped another family whose child had a heart condition.

It can be difficult to find such help. But be persistent. Do the research. In the end, it could pay off greatly.

Supplies and Durable Medical Equipment for Children with Disabilities has more information you may find helpful.