Why AT Reuse?
What is AT Reuse?
Why AT Reuse?
- AT Reuse fills the gap when Californians are unable to obtain the new devices they need.
- AT Reuse saves money for the person using the equipment.
- AT Reuse saves health care costs by preventing secondary disabilities that would have developed without it.
- AT Reuse keeps useable equipment out of the landfill, which is good for the environment.
- AT Reuse ensures efficient and effective use of California’s resources by using equipment to its full potential.
What are AT Reuse Programs?
AT Reuse programs accept donations of AT and/or DME, and then clean, repair and distribute the devices to people in their communities who need them. Some programs charge a small fee for this service and other programs offer the used equipment free to the new owner. Most of California’s AT Reuse programs focus on the redistribution of durable medical equipment.
How AT Reuse Helps Californians
The California Health Benefits Review Program estimates approximately 5.5% of people who have health insurance will use durable medical equipment each year. When people no longer need their DME, the item may still have value. Many pieces of equipment in good condition can be distributed back into the community.
AT Reuse fills the gaps when Californians are unable to obtain the new devices they need. Who needs used devices?
- The 18% of Californians without health insurance.
- The 1.3 million Californians who have health insurance without DME coverage.
- Californians with partial DME coverage and large out-of-pocket costs.
The Hidden Need for DME Among the Insured
Californians who have health insurance with a durable medical equipment benefit have less coverage than ever before. Many insurance companies implement annual DME benefit limits that typically total $2,000 to $3,000. This means that people with private insurance coverage, both group and individual plans, are paying more out-of-pocket for durable medical equipment. Approximately 72,000 insured DME users currently have to pay $26.6 million in expenses for non-covered benefits. Often people with health insurance can’t afford the out-of-pocket costs to purchase the DME they desperately need to improve their health, functioning, or to recover from an injury or surgery. Without the needed DME, they may not be able to return to work, get around the house, or engage with the community.