How To Find FREE Medical Equipment In Houston

FREE Medical Equipment in Houston
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Free Medical Equipment in Houston


In this community resource guide, you will learn about nonprofit organizations that offer free medical equipment in Houston. 

If you or someone you know has chronic medical problems you know that medical expenses can quickly add up.

While I don’t have a sure-fire way to lower the cost of your co-payments or insurance premiums I can help you save by offering you leads to free medical equipment in Houston.

Recently I did some digging and discovered multiple local agencies who provide medical equipment to essentially anyone with a disability who asks!

What Is Durable Medical Equipment? 

Durable medical equipment, also known as DME, is a term used to describe a wide range of products that are durable, requiring little to no maintenance, and designed to assist patients with mobility or daily living activities.

Some common examples of durable medical equipment include but are not limited to hospital beds, blood pressure monitors, CPAP machines, canes, and wheelchair ramps.

Patients in need of durable medical equipment may be referred to a durable medical equipment provider by their doctor or healthcare team.

Once the patient has been referred, the durable medical equipment provider will work with the patient and/or caregiver to identify the appropriate type of durable medical equipment needed and ensure that it meets the patient’s individualized needs. If you need to find a DME supplier you can view this listing of medical supply companies in Houston

 

1.) Houston Council for Independent Living

The first agency I’m going to tell you about is the Houston Council for Independent Living or HCIL.

In addition to care coordination and independent living skills, they also offer free medical equipment to those with a disability.  HCIL doesn’t keep a stockpile of equipment although walkers, wheelchairs, and shower seats are common items you’ll find at HCIL from time to time.

To receive medical equipment from HCIL you’ve got to first pick up the phone and call them at 713.974.4621 and ask about donated equipment.

The second thing you or your client must do is enroll in one of their many programs. Again HCIL offers services like care coordination, independent living, referrals to assisted living facilities, and even educates you on your rights via advocacy classes. Enroll in any of these programs and HCIL will potentially assist you with obtaining medical equipment.

For more information on HCIL contact them at 713.974.4621, visit their website HCIL.CC or visit their office at 6201 Bonhomme Rd, Suite 150-S Houston, TX 77036.

2.) RSVP Texas

If you can’t find what you need at HCIL your next option is RSVP Texas.

RSVP is an organization run by nothing but volunteers. The main services they provide are rehabilitation services as well as medical equipment to those with a disability. RSVP receives donations from the community and then offers the medical equipment to those in the community in need.

RSVP only offers medical equipment on the 2nd Saturday of the month. To receive medical equipment you need to show up at 7100 Grand Blvd Houston, TX 77054 on the 2nd Saturday of the month. The individual in need of the medical equipment must attend to ensure there is a proper need, make sure the fit is right and demonstrate the proper use.

In some instances, RSVP will make an allowance for therapists or case managers, but this is on a case-by-case basis.

To donate your medical equipment to RSVP go HERE.

For more information on RSVP services see the contact information below: RSVP Texas 7100 Grand Blvd Houston, TX 77036 – 855.825.7787 – info@rsvptexas.org RSVP provides patients with DME on the 2nd Saturday of each month. 

3.) Medcy.org (Medical Thrift Store In Houston)

This is a medical thrift store that offers affordable wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, hospital beds, shower chairs and more. 

For more information, you can either visit the Mercy.org website or call them at 832.795.8689. 

4.) Assistive Technology Unlimited

ATU is a nonprofit that helps seniors and individuals with disabilities get access to assistive devices to help them increase or maintain mobility and independent living. 

If you have a disability and are seeking low-cost to free medical equipment in Houston, Assistive Technology Unlimited may be able to help you. They offer services like: 

  • Free hearing screenings
  • Hearing aids
  • Help to get telecommunication devices like landlines, cell phones, tablets, headsets, and more. 
  • Wheelchairs
  • Visual aids
  • Specialized computer software and hardware
  • Prostheses

To learn more about how they can help you get low-cost medical equipment in Houston, call Assistive Technology Unlimited at 832.940.2020.  You can also visit their office located at 13831 NW Freeway, Suite 300, Houston, TX 77040. 

5.) Free Durable Medical Equipment From Medicare

If you have original Medicare (Part A and Part B) this is another way to get free medical equipment. 

Medicare Part A 

Medicare Part A is also known as “hospital coverage” because it pays for many services related to admission to the hospital.  If you are discharged from the hospital and require home health care (care from a nurse) then you will qualify for some free medical equipment. Here is a short list of services that Medicare Part A may cover: 

  • Part-time or intermittent nursing care
  • Medical supplies like catheters, ostomy bags
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Diabetes supplies 
  • Physical, speech, or occupational therapy

Medicare Part B

This is known as your “medical insurance” because it covers outpatient services.  “Medically necessary services” that your Medicare Part B will cover are: 

  • Durable medical equipment like wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen tanks, and walkers
  • Outpatient physical, speech, occupational therapy
  • Artificial limbs, eyes, breast prostheses after a mastectomy, 
  • Arm, leg, and neck braces
  • One pair of eyeglasses after cataract surgery
  • Surgical dressings require to treat a wound

To learn more about medical equipment that Medicare covers you can speak with your primary care doctor or contact Medicare at 800.633.4227.

6.) Area Agency on Aging

If you can’t find free medical equipment in Houston at either of the agencies above try the local Area Agency on Aging. Not to be confused with the Largest Motor Club, “Triple A” is the authority on services for seniors.

While AAA may not directly provide you with durable medical equipment, they may be able to refer you to local providers who can help you with wheelchairs, walkers, and more. 

Contact them at 832.393.4301, via email at aging@houstontx.gov, website Area Agency on Aging, or stop by their office at 8000 North Stadium Houston, TX 77054.  

7.) Nextdoor (Free Medical Equipment From Your Houston Neighbors)

Nextdoor is a free social network for your neighborhood. You can use it to keep up with the local news, find a good deal on a used car, or put out an alert about a crime in progress. But one of its best uses is finding free medical equipment and supplies you need to stay well at home – whether that means free blood pressure monitors, diabetes test strips, wheelchairs, or walkers.

To request free medical equipment from your Houston neighbors, simply create a post (just like you would on Facebook) asking for the healthcare equipment that you need.

To learn more about the types of free wheelchairs, shower chairs, or canes, your neighbors may have, visit the Nextdoor website

Editor’s Note: When looking for free medical equipment on social media sites, be cautious. Most folks are genuinely attempting to assist you, but you must remain vigilant. If you decide to accept a medical supplies offered by someone on the Nextdoor app, it’s best to bring a family member or friend with you just in case.

8.) Houston Buy Nothing Groups For Medical Supplies 

Buy Nothing Groups (BNGs) are a free form of recycling for those looking to give unwanted goods away.

These groups allow people to post what they have, as well as what they’re seeking. Whether you are on a fixed income or your health insurance will not pay for specific medical equipment, Buy Nothing Groups offer a good alternative. These groups are very supportive, which is why it is worth considering if you need free medical equipment in Houston. 

Houston Buy Nothing Groups

Here is a list of Houston Buy Nothing Groups that may offer the free equipment that you need: 

If you want to join a Buy Nothing Group the easiest way is to find a Facebook group. You can use the list above to find a neighborhood group. Although I have never used their app, you can also download it to find free medical equipment in Houston. For more information visit the Buy Nothing Project website

Editor’s Note:  When looking for free medical equipment on social media sites, be cautious. Most people are genuinely attempting to assist you, but you must still be careful. If you decide to get medical goods from a Buy Nothing Group because it is a good deal, take a family member or friend with you to be safe.

9.) Easter Seals 

Easter Seals Greater Houston offers free medical equipment to individuals with disabilities in the form of Assistive Technology. 

Assistive Technology is any piece of software, device, or equipment that helps people work around any physical challenges they may have. Examples of Assistive Technology tools are: 

  • Computers either desktop or laptop
  • Smartphones and tablets
  • Text-to-speech devices
  • As well as Assistive technology for reading, writing, listening, and more

Easter Seals offers an AT&T Assistive Technology lab which gives you the opportunity to try out computers with modified devices and software.  There are a number of supportive services for individuals with disabilities. This includes infants, children, teens, adults, and veterans, therefore if you have a need for medical equipment Easter Seals may be able to help you. 

For more information about Assistive Technology or other services provided call 713.838.9050, visit the Easter Seals website, or their office at 4888 Loop Central Drive, Suite 200, Houston, TX 77081. 

10.) Medical Equipment at Thrift Stores

Thrift shops are all over Houston and inside those locations, you can find deals on everything including medical equipment.

On a recent trip to Sand Dollar Thrift Store, I found crutches, canes, and a car seat for a baby all for under $4. You’ll have to hunt for deals, but the payoff is completely worth it if you can save $100 searching for medical equipment at a thrift store.

Find Free Used Medical Equipment In Any State

If you live outside of Houston and want to know about states that offer free medical equipment near you, refer to our guide titled How To Find Free Medical Equipment In All 50 States. There you will find nonprofits that offered free DME like shower chairs, walkers, canes, and even motorized wheelchairs. 


Conclusion

When searching for free medical equipment in Houston your first options should be your health insurance and then friends/family. Your Care Coordinator with your health insurance plan will be able to tell you about durable medical equipment you can likely receive for free. 

Friends and family can likely provide you with leads on finding free medical equipment or help you with the purchase if it’s a reasonable amount. 

Once you’ve exhausted both of those options then you should turn to agencies on this list. If an agency does not have the equipment you need, simply ask them about other places you can call. Many of these organizations have connections to medical suppliers, therefore they can also help you with alternatives to find free medical equipment in Houston

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12 thoughts on “How To Find FREE Medical Equipment In Houston

  1. Martha Garcia Reply

    Looking for a electrical hospital bed, bed sore prevention therapeutic foam mattress in houston, tx
    Free, rental

  2. Nick Bryant Post authorReply

    Hi Martha, I think your best bet for those things (especially the hospital bed) is RSVP Texas. Every 2nd Saturday they give away medical equipment like that. If your person has Medicare its possible they will pay for 80% of the cost of a bed. Craigslist or Facebook marketplace may provide even more options for that electric hospital bed. Hope that helps you.

  3. Robert Marshall Reply

    I’ve been perscribed a electrical scooter but can’t afford one. If you can help in any way please contact me.

    • Nick Bryant Post authorReply

      Hi Robert! If you’ve already tried:

      * RSVP Texas at 855.825.7787
      * Houston Center for Independent Living 713.974.4621
      * Houston Area Agency on Aging 832.393.4301

      Here are other suggestions…assuming you have Medicare.

      Contact your Medicare plan, especially if you have Medicare Advantage or a Medicare Supplement Plan. Some of these plans will pay all or half of your coinsurance cost. With traditional Medicare, you’re probably looking at 20% of the cost of the scooter.

      Another option is renting a scooter. According to the link below, after 13 payments you take ownership of the equipment. The only thing to consider if you go this route is buying from a DME supplier who accepts Medicare assignment. You can find DME stores that accepts Medicare by calling 1-800-MEDICARE and asking for “DME suppliers in your zip code”.

      Info on DME rentals: https://www.medicareinteractive.org/get-answers/medicare-covered-services/durable-medical-equipment-dme/renting-and-buying-dme

      Again definitely follow up with Area Agency on Aging (and the other numbers list) and ask them if they know of programs to help you with the costs.

      I hope that helps you my man. God bless!

      • kimberly ray Reply

        when i called area on aging i got laughed at not only by the person who answered the phone but people in the back ground like if i was on speaker needless to say i felt imbarrassed and now i wont ask 4 the help i need so please beware

        • Nick Bryant Post authorReply

          Hi Kimberly, I’m sorry that happened to you, those workers are highly unprofessional. You did nothing wrong by simply asking a question. Even if AAA cannot give you medical equipment from their agency, they should have details on agencies that can offer assistance. Again I’m sorry that you had that encounter with those workers.

          RSVP is probably the best option for free medical equipment in Houston, however, the pandemic may have impacted their hours of operation. If they cannot help consider using the Nextdoor app. There are many people on this app and in your neighborhood who have unused medical equipment in their spare bedrooms and garages, so definitely check that option.

          If you have more questions, I’m always here, so send me a message anytime Kimberly!

          Nick

  4. Bill Fischer Reply

    I’m looking for a used electric/hydraulic sit to stand lift. Will consider a manual operation, but prefer an electric one.

    • Nick Bryant Post authorReply

      Hi Bill, no guarantees that they have this but RSVP is probably your best option in Houston if you are looking for free equipment. You can visit their website at https://rsvptexas.org/ or call them at 855.825.7787. Even if they dont have what you are looking for they are likely more knowledgable about alternative places you can go to find this specific piece of equipment.

  5. Eve Bedingfield Reply

    Hi! I am so grateful to you for offering your time and resources. I recently had spinal surgery and I am required to walk. I’m a I interested in trying arm cuff crutches. I have normal weakness after this type of surgery but feel these would allow me to begin my walking regiment without fear of falling. I would use them and donate them back. Can you offer any suggestions on where I might be able to find these? Thank you.

    • Nick Bryant Post authorReply

      Thank you so much for the kind words Eve, that really means alot! Seriously!

      Regarding your need for arm cuff crutches, I would say try RSVP, Houston Center For Independent Living or even the Easter Seals of Greater Houston may be able to provide you with leads on the crutches.

      If they cannot provide you with the medical equipment you are looking for I think they can probably point you in the right direction.

      Thanks again and I hope you find your arm crutches.

      Nick

  6. Angela Reply

    Hi Nick!
    I am a coordinator for total joint replacements. I have some patients ask where to get low cost or free equipment since they only use it for 2-4 weeks post op. I usually tell them to check with insurance first. I have directed to online options and Goodwill. The usual items are standard 2 wheeled walker, toilet seat lift, shower seat/bench and/or 3-in-1 commode. I explain these items in the pre op class and I learn a lot from the patients themselves, but have also been asked this question.
    I like to have options. I looked at the websites you named above and almost feel that would be taking from those who have disabilities and need it more. In turn, I would also let the patients know they could donate back or if they purchase they could donate to those you mentioned. Appreciate your input and thoughts! Blessings!

    • Nick Bryant Post authorReply

      Hi Angela, really good questions! My wife works as a discharge planner in a rehab hospital and she’s much more qualified to answer this. She had the following thoughts on this topic:

      * Insurance should cover 2 wheeled walkers and 3 in 1 commodes. It likely won’t cover the toilet lift seat and shower seat/bench.
      * Definitely refer them to insurance first especially if they have Medicare. Her thought is the insurance company would probably rather pay $40 for a walker as opposed to the cost of another night in the hospital.
      * In her experience Amazon has had the cheapest DME and of course the delivery is super fast.
      * Online communities like Nextdoor and Buy Nothing Groups often have people who will give those items away for free.
      * She also said that Goodwill will give you medical equipment from their stores if you can show a prescription from a doctor. I’ve gotta fact check her that one tomorrow, but if its true that’s a really good deal.

      Lastly, she said if you need a list of DME companies that respond fast just let me know and I’ll get it to you.

      Thank you again for the love and be careful at those the hospitals!

      Nick

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