OXYGEN: Beware of upcoming cost

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) refers to more than wheelchairs, etc., but also includes oxygen equipment and supplies.

In 2012 these items have been covered 100 percent by Medicare and Medicare supplemental insurance at no out-of-pocket cost to the insured. However, in 2013, people needing oxygen and oxygen supplies to live will be required to pay 10 percent to 20 percent of the total cost of the oxygen. For some that will mean out-of-pocket costs of $60 at 10 percent to $120 at 20 percent, depending upon their insurance carrier.

There is only one carrier listed in the 2013 Medicare and You, U.S. government handbook, pages 136 to 136(i) for Idaho, with a monthly premium of $202, which provides 100 percent coverage for these items and is only available in certain counties in Idaho. Right now there is no information to the increase in Medicare premium rates and deductibles from Medicare because according to the handbook on page 4, last paragraph, it states, “The 2013 Medicare premium and deductible amounts weren’t available at the time of printing.” The www.medicare.gov website includes the same statement.

Since these changes affect all those using oxygen and oxygen supplies, I do hope that you will print this letter. Since a member of my family has to have oxygen, I have firsthand personal knowledge of the total cost, which right now is more than $600 per month.

GENEVA DeLONG

Post Falls