When caring for a loved one, one of your biggest challenges may be learning to juggle your everyday life with your role as a caregiver. It's likely that balancing your budget may be at the top of that list. We've compiled tips and tools to help you find easy and affordable ways to buy bladder control products. These tips will allow you to confidently take on planning for and managing the everyday costs of incontinence supplies, while helping you and your loved one continue to lead a full and fearless life.
Do Medicare or Medicaid Cover Incontinence Supplies?
Your first step toward taking control of your medical supply budget is to find out how and if the government offers help. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover incontinence supplies, but your loved one may get some supplies covered if she has a Medicare supplemental plan. Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer enhanced benefit options for products and services not covered by Medicare Parts A and B.
*Expert tip: When reviewing a new healthcare plan, remember to check the plan’s summary of benefits or contact customer service to find out whether these benefits are available.
Medicaid does cover incontinence supplies in most, but not all, states. Medicaid is a state-run health benefits program, so benefits will vary by state. If you qualify for Medicaid, contact your state Medicaid office to find out what your state’s guidelines are.
Tax Deductions for Medical Expenses
Your loved one may be able to deduct certain medical expenses on her income tax return if they equal a certain percentage of her income. Incontinence products are an eligible expense as long as, according to the IRS, “they are needed to relieve the effects of a particular disease.” Ask your tax professional or consult the IRS to see if this option is available to you.
Affordable Incontinence Products: Fast and in Your Budget
Know your options! There are several ways to plan and purchase incontinence care products that are discreet, make your life easier, and fit into your budget:
Purchasing online: When you purchase online from retailers like Wal-Mart, Amazon, Target, Walgreens, or CVS, not only are the products delivered discreetly to your door, but many online sources offer discounts and savings plans. Sites such as NeedyMeds compile updated discount codes, coupons, and rebates for medications and medical supplies.
Buying in bulk: Many retailers offer discounts when you buy in bulk. Look for specials in bulk stores as well as online.
Promotions: Look for product promotions that allow you to test a product before committing to buying it. Request a free trial or sign up for coupons to give you discounts on the items you’re interested in.
Some suppliers offer subscription services so you don’t need to worry about remembering to reorder the products you need. Often, subscriptions will come with a discount, so it’s also a great way to save!
Choosing Quality and Fit
Choosing high-quality products that fit your loved one’s needs is important to ensure that she feels protected, and it’s also more economical. An array of options are available, from ultra-thin pads to full-coverage briefs for men and women, to compliment a variety of lifestyles. The correct size, fit, and absorbency will keep her more comfortable while helping you reduce the number of products that you need to buy.
Gaining and Reclaiming Confidence and Comfort
Though incontinence represents a change in lifestyle, it doesn’t have to be a stumbling block for you and your loved one. By shopping smart, you can introduce products and tools to help you and your loved one continue to lead a happy and active life. You’re not alone, and there are plenty of products available to help your loved one take control of incontinence and continue to live life to the fullest.
Home Delivery of Incontinence Supplies
HDIS Medicaid, a Medicaid-approved supplier of brand-name incontinence products mailed to your doorstep. HDIS works directly with Medicaid and your loved one’s healthcare provider to obtain Medicaid reimbursement, if available in your state.
HDIS is another large incontinence supply company in the country and has specialized in providing an easy and affordable way for caregivers to purchase incontinence supplies for almost three decades. The company offers a wide variety of products at a great value that are available to customers same day, conveniently, and privately.
Other home delivery companies to try include Quality Homecare Products, Rely, and Total Homecare Supplies .
