October 9th, 2021 by WCBC Radio

The Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use Program could benefits thousands of Marylanders- however not many people know about it. This program provides Maryland residents with donated equipment — such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, scooters and even pediatric equipment that have been sanitized and repaired — at no cost. Applicants do not have to meet any income requirements to receive equipment. Marylanders with any disability, illness or injury can receive this equipment regardless of age, according to the program website. Disability healthcare costs in Maryland can reach as high as $21,118 per person each year, according to a 2019 Disability and Health Data report the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued. Ten percent of Maryland adults have a mobility-related disability, according to the CDC report. This makes it the highest reported disability among other types such as cognitive, self-care and independent living. Program Director Ian Edwards said despite numerous attempts to raise awareness for this program, many people still don’t know it exists. Once the majority of Marylanders received their vaccines, Edwards said more equipment started going out to the public in March