When a person with MS needs equipment, the Gateway Area Chapter’s Care Management Program helps coordinate social, economic and health care resources to meet individual needs and prevent costlier care. Some determining factors include: eligibility for assistance must be determined, the individual must be registered with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Gateway Area Chapter, a confirmation of their diagnosis must be on file, have a doctor’s prescription, and have a financial assistance form completed with every request, and the item is covered under the chapter’s Financial Assistance program. Through individualized attention we help promote a better quality of life so people with MS can achieve the highest level of independence through difficult times.
- When you are considering the purchase of equipment and would like to receive financial assistance, you must first contact the chapter for authorization prior to purchase. You can then go to the vendor of your choice or be referred by the chapter to vendors in your area. The Chapter does not reimburse after a purchase has been made.
- All equipment requests will be subsidized according to the total amount of the balance after all third party payments have been made. Third party payments include: private insurance, HMOs, Medicare, rehabilitation services and any donation by another individual and/or organization.
- The items covered under this program include: wheelchairs, canes, bathroom safety equipment, scooters, patient lifts, leg braces, hospital beds, wheelchair and power mobility parts, seating systems, portable and fixed ramps, lift chairs, vehicle modifications, cooling vests, adaptive equipment, air conditioners, exercise equipment, and incontinent supplies.
- The Chapter also has a loan closet for durable medical equipment. Hospital beds and used bathroom equipment are not accepted
- The Chapter also allows individuals to post marketplace ads for sale of gently used equipment, that you can view to see if they meet your needs.