How to Rent a Hospital Bed
Rent a hospital bed requires careful planning to ensure it fits your medical needs. Follow these steps:
rent a hospital bed
1. Contact a Rental Company
Get in touch with a hospital bed rental company through their website, email, or phone.
– Explain your specific needs, like the bed type and accessories.
– Ask for suitable recommendations.
– Confirm pricing and availability.
2. Obtain a Doctor’s Prescription
A doctor’s prescription is often required, especially if insurance will cover the cost. This document proves the medical need for the bed and ensures insurance compliance.
3. Choose the Right Hospital Bed Model
Hospital beds come in several types:
– Manual beds: Adjusted by hand, usually more affordable.
– Semi-electric beds: Combine manual and electric adjustments.
– Fully electric beds: Fully adjustable with electronic controls for convenience.
Consider features like side rails, specialized mattresses, or overlays for added comfort and safety.
4. Decide on the Rental Period
Discuss the rental period with the company. Include:
– Start and end dates.
– Flexibility for short- or long-term use.
5. Prepare the Necessary Documentation
Make sure you have all the required paperwork, such as:
– Identification and contact details.
– A doctor’s prescription.
– A valid payment method.
6. Arrange Delivery and Setup
Most rental companies provide delivery and installation services. Ensure the bed is properly set up and works well in its location.
7. Understand Rental Fees and Payment Options
Rental costs typically range from $200 to $500 per month, depending on the bed type and added accessories. Check accepted payment options, such as:
– Credit cards.
– Bank transfers.
8. Check Insurance Coverage
Insurance, including Medicare or private plans, may cover part or all of the rental cost. Confirm the bed qualifies as “durable medical equipment” (DME) and meets insurance requirements.
9. Coordinate Return or Extension
When the rental term ends:
– Schedule a pickup with the company.
– If you need to extend the rental, notify the company in advance to avoid interruptions.
Why Rent a Hospital Bed?
Affordable for Short-Term Use
Renting a hospital bed is a smart and cost-effective solution for temporary needs. Instead of paying a large upfront cost to buy one, you can rent it for $200 to $500 per month, depending on the bed’s features.
Perfect for Temporary Medical Care
Hospital bed rentals are ideal for situations like:
– Recovering from surgery
– Managing an injury
– Dealing with an extended illness
– Providing palliative care
This option allows patients to receive care comfortably at home.
Different Beds for Different Needs
You can choose from various types of rental beds, including:
– Fully Electric Beds: Easy to adjust for height and angle with the push of a button.
– Semi-Electric Beds: Some adjustments are electric, while others require manual changes.
These options meet a variety of patient needs and preferences.
Consider Long-Term Costs
While renting is a great short-term solution, long-term rentals can add up. If you need the bed for an extended period, buying may save you money in the long run.
Cost and Financial Considerations
Rental Costs by Bed Type
- Basic Beds: Fully electric home hospital beds cost $140–$200 per month.
- Advanced Models: Beds with adjustable height and modern features range from $250–$500 per month.
Rental Duration and Discounts
- Short-term Rentals:
- Basic electric hospital bed: $195 for one week, $295 for two weeks, $395 for four weeks.
- Long-term care needs: $250 for one week, $350 for two weeks, $450 for four weeks.
- Longer rental periods often have discounts.
Additional Costs
- Delivery and Setup: Delivery fees range from $100–$200, with an additional $100–$200 for pickup.
- Maintenance Services: Some providers charge for maintenance and support during the rental.
Insurance and Assistance
- Insurance Coverage: Some private insurance plans cover rentals if prescribed by a doctor, occupational therapist, or physiotherapist.
- Financial Aid Programs: Programs like Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Veterans Affairs Canada may help cover costs for eligible individuals.
Location and Provider Factors
- Geographical Costs: Providers in remote areas may charge higher fees due to transportation.
- Terms and Conditions: Review rental terms for hidden costs and service conditions.
Rent vs. Buy
- Renting is often cheaper for short-term use.
- For long-term needs, compare rental costs to buying a new or used hospital bed.
Delivery, Installation, and Maintenance
Delivery Service
Many rental companies deliver hospital beds to your home. For example, Canada Care Medical delivers the bed to your chosen room. Some companies, like ADAPT Home Health Care, offer white glove delivery, where technicians handle delivery, setup, and usage instructions.
Installation and Assembly
Proper hospital bed assembly ensures safety and warranty compliance. Trained delivery teams, usually two people, handle the setup. White glove services include full assembly to ensure safe use.
Maintenance and Repairs
- Emergency Repairs: Companies such as Canada Care Medical provide same-day or next-day repair services. Technicians can perform repairs at home or in-store, depending on the issue.
- Regular Maintenance: Skilled technicians, trained in hospital bed upkeep, provide reliable maintenance services.
Equipment Quality and Safety
Rental companies focus on high-quality hospital beds with safety features to prevent falls and ensure user security. For example, Help Mobility provides medical-grade foam mattresses with rentals.
Pick-up and Return Process
At the end of the rental period, companies like Canada Care Medical handle bed disassembly and collection. A pick-up fee may apply, as stated in the rental agreement.
Pre-Delivery Preparation
Before delivery, prepare the space where the hospital bed will be placed. Ensure there is enough room for the bed and any additional accessories, such as overbed tables or bed rails.
Accessories and Additional Services
Many companies offer accessories to improve comfort and functionality, such as side rails, trapeze bars, or overbed tables. Some, like ADAPT Home Health Care, also provide assessments to recommend the best bed and mattress for specific medical needs.
Size and Weight Capacity
When choosing a hospital bed, knowing its size and weight limits is crucial for safety and comfort. Here are the main points:
Dimensions of Hospital Beds
- Standard Hospital Beds: These are 80 inches long and 36 inches wide. With the headboard and footboard, the total size increases to 84 inches long and 36 inches wide.
- Bariatric Hospital Beds: Made for larger individuals, they come in various sizes:
- Smaller models: 88 inches long and 42 inches wide
- Mid-range models: 94 inches long and 48 inches wide
- Larger models: 94 inches long and 54 inches wide
Weight Capacity of Hospital Beds
- Standard Beds: Can handle 350-450 pounds.
- Manual Hospital Beds: Support 400-500 pounds.
- Semi-Electric Beds: Typically support up to 450 pounds.
- Bariatric Beds: Built for higher capacities, they can support 600, 750, or even 1,000 pounds, depending on the model.
Weight of Hospital Beds
- Manual Beds: Usually weigh about 346 pounds.
- Semi-Electric Beds: Weigh between 42 pounds for lighter parts and 169 pounds for heavier ones.
- Full-Electric Beds: Bariatric models can weigh up to 276 pounds or more.
Additional Considerations
- The total bed weight includes the mattress, bedding, and accessories, adding around 65 kg (143 pounds).
- Ensure enough space around the bed for caregivers to work and adjust it safely.
These specifications will help you select a bed that fits medical and practical requirements.
Mattress Options
Choosing the right mattress when renting a hospital bed is crucial for comfort and health needs. Below are the main options and their features:
Standard Pressure Relief Foam Mattress
- Included: Usually part of the rental cost.
- Features: Layered foam with a soft top and a firm bottom for back support.
- Benefits: Eases back and pelvic discomfort, making it a practical option for many.
Gel Mattress
- Availability: Offered as an upgrade by some providers.
- Features: Adds pressure relief and cooling effects.
- Cost: May involve extra charges, depending on the provider.
Air Mattress
- Alternating Pressure Mattresses
- How It Works: Uses air cylinders or pumps to vary pressure levels.
- Benefits: Improves circulation and helps prevent bedsores, ideal for bedridden patients or those at high risk of pressure ulcers.
- Low Air Loss Mattresses
- Features: Combines air and foam to reduce pressure while keeping skin cool and dry.
- Benefits: Helps prevent skin shearing and pressure ulcers.
Key Considerations
- Covers: Many mattresses have vinyl or nylon covers for easy cleaning.
- Weight Capacity: Most standard mattresses support 300–450 pounds. Bariatric options can handle up to 1,000 pounds.
- Size: Standard size is 80” x 36”, with larger options available for bariatric beds.
Upgrade Costs
- Upgrades like gel or air mattresses can add to the cost. For example, alternating pressure mattresses range from $300 to $7,000, depending on the model and provider.
Renting a hospital bed ensures comfort, safety, and cost-effectiveness for temporary medical needs. By carefully evaluating options, insurance, and features, you can create a supportive care environment at home. Remember, the right choice balances practicality and patient well-being.