Saunders Neck Traction and Medicare

[JAH]

Hi Everyone,
Like many of you, I am looking into the role that cervical instability might play in my CFS. I’ve started to use a cheap over the door neck traction device, which I don’t like it and can’t use by myself, I’ve read some of the threads here about the Saunders and ComfoTrac neck traction devices , and want to get one. Someone posted that they got the Saunders and it was covered by Medicare. I can’t find that post- has anyone here been able to get insurance to cover the cost of one of these neck traction devices? They’re pretty expensive....

thanks,

J

 

[5vforest]

This is random and might not be the most helpful, but I know a family member who coincidentally owns one. It was covered by workmen’s comp because of a repetitive stress injury. (Bad ergonomics at the computer desk or something.) Maybe they are prescribed by doctors/physios for that sort of thing? If you feel like lying?

 

[JAH]

I have no problem with lying😀

but seriously, I’ve emailed a few medical supply stores, and none of them take insurance, so I’m not sure how that would work. I don’t think I can “bill” Medicare.

thanks for your feedback
J

 

[5vforest]

Dang. I assume you have already seen this page? https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/traction-equipment It is one of the top search results.

Obviously the supplier needs to be enrolled, so that is still a problem.

Also, I see you are in Northern CA. If you can manage pickup and want to borrow ours to try out, send me a PM.

ETA: I am in the Bay Area

 

[JAH]

No I hadn’t seen that Medicare page- kind of surprised that no medical supply company I’ve contacted takes Medicare, oh well.
Thanks for the link, I’ll keep looking into it and talk me my doctor

jah