Community Care
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Requirements–Information for Providers
The information below provides information specific to Veterans for prosthetics, orthotics, DME and sensory aid fulfillment services.
All routine DME requests (not needed urgent or emergently during the visit) should be requested within twenty-four (24) hours or the next business day after completion of healthcare services from which the prescription was generated. To request routine DME, prosthetics or orthotics for a Veteran, complete VA Form 10-10172, Request for Services (RFS), and return it to the local VA facility community care office. Page 2 of the form is dedicated to these specific requests. For additional information, please review the Request and Coordinate Care–Request for Service requirements.
If a provider determines that DME is needed emergently or urgently to stabilize or decrease the risk of further injury it is covered under the authorization for the visit and can be provided by the community provider. Implantable devices are covered under the authorization for the primary problem or procedure.
DME rentals are only covered for the first 30 days. The Community Care Network (CCN) will not pay for DME rentals beyond the initial 30 days. If the DME rental is required beyond 30 days, a Request for Service Form must be submitted to VA in advance to ensure proper care coordination and no disruption to rental services.
More Information
VHA Rehabilitation and Prosthetic Services website
Pharmacy Requirements
Information on the requirements for prescribing medications to Veterans for prescription fulfillment services is on the Pharmacy Requirements–Information for Providers page.
