Funding Criteria: Durable Medical Equipment

The ARK Foundation recognizes that durable medical equipment is essential to improving the quality of life, comfort, and independence of children with rare, chronic, or complex medical needs. We are committed to reducing the financial burden associated with medically prescribed equipment and supplies by offering targeted support to families across Montana.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) includes items prescribed by a licensed medical professional that are:

• Primarily and customarily used to serve a medical purpose,
• Able to withstand repeated use, and
• Appropriate for use in the home or community setting.

Examples of eligible DME include, but are not limited to:

• Mobility equipment: wheelchairs, walkers, standers, gait trainers, AFOs, and other orthotic supports.
• Feeding and respiratory equipment: feeding tubes, tracheostomy supplies, suction machines, and associated accessories.
• Assistive communication devices (AAC): speech-generating devices and communication tablets prescribed for medical use.
• Vision and hearing supports: prescription eyeglasses, specialized lenses, and hearing-related devices not covered by insurance.
• Daily living aids: adaptive utensils, positioning supports, or safety equipment prescribed for medical necessity.

Whenever possible, The ARK Foundation will make payment directly to the provider, supplier, or manufacturer to ensure timely delivery and reduce administrative burden on families. 

Families must provide an itemized list of requested equipment and supplies along with supporting documentation from the prescribing provider.

For recurring medical supplies (such as tracheostomy or feeding tube components, filters, or consumables), funding will typically cover a one-month supply per approved request.

Families may apply for DME assistance once per calendar year.
Each family may receive funding for DME-related needs up to three times per lifetime through The ARK Foundation.

• Custom AFOs or orthotic bracing not fully covered by insurance
• Adaptive strollers or wheelchairs for mobility and comfort
• Speech-generating devices for nonverbal communication
• Feeding tube supplies or tracheostomy care kits
• Prescription eyeglasses or visual aids for medically diagnosed conditions
• Specialized bedding or seating systems prescribed for medical positioning