FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Deliveries
Q: I normally have my supplies delivered to me by your delivery team. Many days they arrive at my house when I am not home. Can they leave the package someplace like inside my front door?
A: Changes in privacy, security, government and consumer protection regulations no longer make it possible for MeritCare HealthCare Accessories, LLC. itself to leave packages without a signature to verify the delivery. If there is no one available to accept delivery and sign a receipt of delivery, we will leave a note and ship the package via UPS, SpeeDee or another parcel delivery company.
Durable Medical Equipment
Q: I am interested in getting a power wheelchair or scooter to help me get around better. Will my insurance help pay for it?
A: The short answer is yes. However, while power mobility equipment such as a wheelchair or a scooter is a great way to help a person maintain their independence, insurance companies have different qualification requirements which you need to meet before they will help reimburse.
Medicare for example, requires a person to have a face to face examination with his/her physician for the primary purpose of documenting the medical need for the equipment. This visit includes a full, in-depth examination and documentation of how your mobility deficits affect your ability to accomplish your daily tasks. Your doctor also needs to rule out why something less expensive, such as a walker or manual wheelchair will not medically work for you.Following the physician's examination, HealthCare Accessories can provide a well trained Rehab Technology Specialist to determine what type of mobility equipment would best serve you. This service is free of charge with no obligations.
Once these examinations and all the documentation are in hand, we are better able to determine if Medicare and other insurance will help cover the cost of the equipment.
A: Sleep apnea in general refers to a condition that has periods of apnea, a temporary cessation of breathing, as the primary component. Specifically, OSA refers to apnea episodes that are due primarily to the collapse of the upper airway during sleep. The effort to breathe is made but there is no airflow in and out of the lungs. Estimates are that 5% of our adult population has OSA. People with undiagnosed and untreated OSA may experience the following symptoms; daytime sleepiness, fatigue, irritability, headaches, elevated blood pressure and depression just to name a few. Job performance, quality of life and a person's medical wellness may also be affected. Your primary physician can assist in referring you to a Sleep Disorder Center for testing.
Once the diagnosis of OSA is confirmed, common treatment is a Nasal CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Therapy. CPAP involves administering air, usually through a mask, by an external blower at a prescribed pressure that keeps the airway open. HealthCare Accessories has the Respiratory Therapy staff, equipment, supplies, and service to assist people diagnosed with OSA. Please contact us and we'd be happy to answer any additional questions.
Mastectomy
Q: What is the newest in Post-Mastectomy breast forms?
A: The Radiant Impressions TM Custom Breast Prosthesis is the newest in breast forms. This revolutionary prosthesis is custom fit to imitate a woman's removed breast as closely as possible. The front surface and shape are "mirror impression" of the existing breast. Since each surgical site varies after breast removal, the Radiant Impressions TM Prosthesis is custom cast to fit each individual's specific chest wall contours. By this custom casting technique, deep voids and irregular tissue contours blend with the back of the prosthesis to form a congruous unit.
The unique "foam core" material mimics the feel, weight and movement of breast tissue while remaining cool to those wearing the prosthesis. Radiant Impressions TM Custom Prosthesis can be worn with a non-pocketed bra, or adhered to the chest wall.
Q: Do you have swim wear for women who wear a breast prosthesis?
A: Yes, the "Just for Women" department at MeritCare HealthCare Accessories has a large selection of fashionable and high quality swimsuits which are designed to hold the breast prosthesis securely. Some suits are available in mix-n-match tops and bottoms so you can get that better fit.
Q: I find my silicone breast prosthesis very uncomfortable to wear during the hot days. Is there anything available to help reduce this discomfort?
A: Yes there is! Amoena's 458 with climate control technology. The features and benefits of the Climate Light are two-part. 1) An Equalizing effect: The Climate Control gel absorbs excess body heat from the chest wall to keep a woman cooler. 2) An Absorbing effect: The top fabric layer draws heat into the center of the pad and wicks moisture away from the chest wall. This climate control pad attaches to the back of the form by hook and loop tabs and can be removed for washing. Extra climate control gel pads can be purchased so you always can have a cool one ready on those hot summer days. The pad can even be cooled in the refrigerator! Stop into any one of the HealthCare Accessories stores in Fargo, Jamestown, Bismarck, Minot or Bemidji, MN and ask one of our Certified Mastectomy Consultants to show you this new product.
Q: How soon after surgery can I be fitted with post-mastectomy products?
A: The initial fitting is usually done 6 - 8 weeks after the surgery. It is quite important to be properly fitted. Our staff will be able to address all your needs and help with any other questions you may have along the way.
Q: Is it necessary that I get fitted with a weighted breast form or can I just make my own from a fiber fill?
A: A breast prosthesis provides much more than an improved aesthetic appearance. Wearing a correctly fit breast form that matches a remaining breast in size and shape replaces the breast weight which helps to keep the body's equilibrium and alignment evenly balanced. Silicone breast forms have a very natural feel and are available in several shapes and sizes. They are designed to weigh approximately the same as a natural breast. It is also very important for someone to be fitted with the correct size of a post-mastectomy bra. A properly fit bra is essential to the fitting of the breast form.
Q: I was fitted with my first silicone breast prosthesis years ago, I found it very comfortable and had no problems until recently. The breast form now doesn't seem to fit properly and I am experiencing some shoulder discomfort. Why is this happening?
A: With time, the body changes, and even though you may not have had a weight loss or weight gain your current breast form may no longer be the most appropriate in size, shape or weight for you. It is suggested that every year, you should have a re-evaluation with your Mastectomy Consultant to ensure you have the appropriate fit. There are new lightweight silicone breast prostheses that are approximately 30-50% lighter in weight than traditional ones, which may reduce or eliminate your shoulder discomfort. Sometimes it is an ill-fitting bra that causes the discomfort and not the prosthesis. If you have not seen your Mastectomy Consultant within the last year or two I strongly encourage you to make an appointment to see her, or call HealthCare Accessories for a free consultation.
**A new prescription may be necessary to replace your post-mastectomy products.
Q: I had a mastectomy years ago and I have always bought the same style of prosthesis and bras. Are there any new products available?
A: HealthCare Accessories carries a wide variety of Post-mastectomy products to choose from. Some of the newer forms are made of a lighter weight silicone, approximately 25% lighter than the traditional forms. These have been extremely popular since they are cooler and cause less stress on the shoulders and neck. The self-adhering form can be worn directly on the chest or in the bra pocket, giving you versatility. One of the leading manufactures in post-mastectomy products now has a matching bra and panty set available.
HealthCare Accessories carries a full line of comfortable, supportive bras, we also have exercise bras, tank tops, leisure bras and swim wear. Contact HealthCare Accessories for an appointment with one of our consultants and have them recheck your fit. They will also be able to show you all the new products now available.
Q: How often do insurance companies allow for coverage of post-mastectomy products?
A: Most insurance companies allow for coverage of post-mastectomy products on a yearly basis. Medicare does however require a new prescription for the replacement of a breast prosthesis. You should consult your individual insurance policy for more exact terms and conditions.
**A new prescription may be necessary to replace your post-mastectomy products.
Compression Garments
Q: My job requires long periods of standing in one place. By the end of the day my legs are tired and aching and my ankles are swelling. What can I do to alleviate the aching feeling and swelling? There is also a history of varicose veins in my family. What are varicose veins and is there anything I can do to help prevent them from forming?
A: A gradient compression stocking in a mild to moderate compression of 8 15 mmHg or 15-20 mmHg (millimeters of Mercury Pressure) may be all that is needed. These are available in knee length, thigh length and panty hose for the ladies and a knee length for the men. These are ideal for relief of tired, aching legs, minor ankle, leg and foot swelling and relief from pain associated with spider veins These are available without a doctors prescription. An ankle and calf measurement is all that is needed for fit you into the appropriate size.
HealthCare Accessories has a large selection of compression stockings in a range of compression levels, styles and colors for Men and Women. For the Ladies: UltraSheer, beautifully sheer-medically effective in 6 fashion colors of knee high, thigh high, pantyhose and maternity. For the Men: Jobst for Men knee high in 5 colors, ribbed design for business and casual occasions.
**Depending on your medical need, it may be necessary to see your doctor to insure you are being provided the correct compression for your health needs.
Q: How am I supposed to get my compression stockings on, they are so hard to put on and take off? I have arthritis in my hands and do not have the strength to pull my stockings on, what can I do? Isn't there an easier way to put my compression stockings on?
A: Gradient compression garments are designed to assist with circulation and force fluids from the most distal (farthest away from the body center) part of the body toward the heart. Compression stockings have the greatest compression at the ankle and decrease in pressure as it moves up the body. Since it is the tightest at the ankle, getting your foot into place is the most difficult. HealthCare Accessories carries a line of Stocking Donning Aids to make getting your compression garments on easier. Rubber donning gloves are the most popular, however the Easy Slide Too is also a very successful aid. Donning Aids reduce stress on both the wearer and the stockings. Using donning aids make it much easier for arthritic hands to get the stockings on thus increasing compliance. Please stop by our showroom and inquire about the different aids available to make your life easier.
Q: I am diabetic and I have been experiencing slight swelling at my ankles the past month. My doctor gave me a prescription for mild compression stockings. My concern is my feet are extremely sensitive. I find if difficult to find a stocking that does not irritate my feet, especially the seam at the toe area. I need to wear a compression stocking to keep the swelling under control, but I don't was to deal with the irritation. Is there anything available that will work?
A: Yes, there is a stocking that will provide mild compression without discomfort. The stocking, SensiFoot TM was designed for sensitive feet associated with conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. The stocking provides a mild compression of 8-15mmHg. They have an antimicrobial finish which inhibits fungal and bacterial growth on the sock, moisture-wicking fibers to help keep feet dry, a soft padding in the foot and toe area for added protection against pressure points and the toe seem is flat and smooth. For more information on this product and other compression garments available, stop into HealthCare Accessories or call our office.
Medicare Coverage
Q: I am diabetic and I've heard that Medicare will pay for shoes for me. Is this true and what is needed for this?
A: The quick answer is yes, Medicare will help pay for this service if prescribed by you diabetic doctor. Medicare allows for up to one pair of therapeutic shoes (diabetic shoes) and 3 pair of inserts for people with diabetes per calendar year. There are rules that providers need to follow and you must qualify for this service as well. The guidelines are summed up nicely in Medicare's diabetic coverage booklet. Please review this booklet or call 1-800-MEDICARE for more specific information. You may also use the following link for information regarding Medicare coverage. Medicare.com
Prosthetics
Q: Recently there has been a lot of media coverage relating to amputees and the conflict in the Middle East. What type of new technology is helping these young soldiers get back to a more active and independent lifestyle? Also, is this type of prosthetic technology available to amputees that are not in the military?
A: One of the more remarkable advances in prosthetic technology is the C-Leg. This is the world's first computer controlled prosthetic knee. The on board microprocessor can analyze how an amputee is walking 50 times a second. The C-Leg allows an individual to walk at different speeds, traverse down stairs and has a unique stumble recovery system. HealthCare Accessories was first to bring this technology to North Dakota and has been fitting them to the general public since September of 2000. Our qualified staff would be able to help you decide if a C-Leg is right for you. Call HealthCare Accessories today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Q: I have been wearing a prosthesis for three years. During this time I have seen Television programs illustrating advances in prosthetic care. I was wondering if new technology could make my existing prosthesis more functional?
A: The field of prosthetics is very dynamic. Every year a new type of foot or knee is developed. If you have activities or goals you wish to achieve but feel limited by your current prosthesis, Health Care Accessories may be able to help. Our certified prosthetic staff are available to do free consultations. At this time we could discuss your current prosthetic problems and how we could use the latest technology to to get the results you are looking for.
Q: Three years ago I had my leg amputated below the knee as a result of a traumatic accident. Recently I have been experiencing more discomfort when I wear my prosthesis. Also I have to stop and take more breaks when walking further distances. Do you know why this is happening and what should I do to alleviate these problems?
A: First, weight gain or loss could explain this. Fluctuation of your body weight does directly affect the overall comfort of your prosthesis, even as little as 5-10 lbs. An amputee's weight will usually change before the prosthesis actually breaks or wears out, so it is imperative that the prosthesis fit intimately in order to stay comfortable. Secondly your prosthetic components may be excessively worn. Prosthetic feet tend to loose some of their dynamic properties over 3 to 5 years. This is a normal occurrence, which happens because of the day to day stress placed on the prosthetic feet from walking or running. The more active a person is the sooner the components will fatigue and need replacement. The good news is that each year researchers develop new prosthetic feet that are stronger and can closely mimic movements of the human foot for a natural gait pattern. These new types of dynamic feet may allow you to walk further while using less energy.
Q: I had an amputation below my knee five years ago. I have had problems with sores, excess perspiration and just overall comfort. Is there any new prosthetic technology available that could help some of these problems so he could lead a more active life?
A: Yes, HealthCare Accessories has been involved in fitting the new Harmony prosthetic system. The Harmony system consists of a vacuum pump that connects the prosthetic socket and foot together. The pump will apply a vacuum seal to an amputee's residual limb, which creates many benefits for the user. First, shear forces are decreased because the pump helps keep the limbs volume constant. This decreases the possibility of skin breakdown and adverse redness. Secondly, because the Harmony pulls air out of the sealed socket it greatly reduces moisture and perspiration for a more hygienic prosthesis. Finally, the Harmony system can aid in a more active lifestyle for an amputee. The elevated vacuum leads to heightened knowledge of wear the prosthesis is in space. This leads to increased balance, stability and control over the prosthesis. The shock absorption the Harmony provides can make an amputee's gait pattern smoother and aid in activities such as golf. To see if you're a candidate for the Harmony vacuum system contact HealthCare Accessories for a free evaluation.