Q&A: Are DME companies (providers / manufacturers) considered "essential business" during COVID-19?

Published in Member Communities on March 20, 2020

A: (note: VGM is seeking further clarification from expert sources)

The short answer it typically yes, they are considered essential and allowed to remain open and continue working. Many of them are carrying their ID badges for work (not sure whether you have those or not), or are carrying emergency travel exemption letters to show to authorities if/when they are questioned as to why they are out and about. Unfortunately, none of the guidance that has been issued has come out and named DME providers and manufacturers specifically as “essential,” but we have seen examples of where DME was approved as essential at a local level, and have not seen examples of them being told they can’t continue operations.

All that said, we suggest that you reach out to your local Public Health officials to get clarity from them at your local level. Certain cities/municipalities may be treating things a little differently than others. They may even go as far as to say that providers who supply oxygen and ventilators and other life-sustaining equipment can continue operations, but those that do not must close.

*Update: See updated answer here.

From Our Experts

Setting Up Your HME for Enrollment Success thumbnail Setting Up Your HME for Enrollment Success Unlock enrollment success for your HME business with tips on provider enrollment, CMS compliance, and avoiding pitfalls. Stay prepared and compliant. September Shift: From Busy to Better—Owning the Home in HME thumbnail September Shift: From Busy to Better—Owning the Home in HME Discover how HME providers can shift from busy to better this September. Learn strategies for enhancing patient experiences, improving operational efficiency, and navigating payer complexities. Join us in building lasting customer relationships and fostering community engagement for a successful Q4 and beyond. The Role of DMEPOS in Value-Based Healthcare thumbnail The Role of DMEPOS in Value-Based Healthcare Explore how DMEPOS providers contribute to value-based care by enhancing patient outcomes, reducing costs, and promoting healthcare transformation. VGM Expands Expertise with Industry Consultants thumbnail VGM Expands Expertise with Industry Consultants VGM & Associates is excited to announce the expansion of its VGM Professional Services team with the addition of Steve Baker, Brian Bersano, & Tonya Williams. A Data-Driven Approach to Unlocking Growth in the HME Industry thumbnail A Data-Driven Approach to Unlocking Growth in the HME Industry Discover how to enhance your HME business growth with data-driven strategies with actionable tools and resources. VGM & Associates Launches “IM: Unfiltered” Podcast Series thumbnail VGM & Associates Launches “IM: Unfiltered” Podcast Series VGM & Associates is proud to announce the launch of its new podcast series, IM: Unfiltered, created with members of the VGM community in mind. This dynamic new series delivers candid conversations, expert insights, and timely updates that matter most to home medical equipment (HME) providers. Expanding Your DME Offerings for Breastfeeding Awareness Month thumbnail Expanding Your DME Offerings for Breastfeeding Awareness Month Discover how DME providers can celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Month in August 2025 by expanding their offerings to include mother/baby products. Key Insights from MedPAC's July Data Book for DME Providers thumbnail Key Insights from MedPAC's July Data Book for DME Providers Learn about the evolving Medicare landscape, the impact of an aging population, and the shift towards home healthcare from MedPAC's July 2025 Data Book.