The Essential Medical Equipment Rental FAQ featured image. A picture of the title over pieces of assorted medical equipment and the Oswald's Pharmacy logo. Equipment pictured: power wheelchir, transport chair, wheelchair, mobility scooter, knee scooter, cold therapy machine, rollator, walker and oxygen concentrator.

The Essential Medical Equipment Rental FAQ

Posted on: September 26th, 2019 by Oswald's Pharmacy Team


Renting medical equipment can be tough, so I’ve put together a list of the most popular rental equipment and the common questions that come with them. All items linked in this FAQ are examples of what specific rentals will look like (styles and extra features depend on your service provider).

This is a comprehensive article. If you are looking for a specific home medical rental item, use the search box below.

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Crutch Rentals

What are crutches rented for?

Crutches are primarily rented for foot and lower leg injuries. Post-op recovery for foot and lower leg injuries can require crutches.

Crutches can also help with balance difficulties. Forearm crutches are primarily used for regular crutch users.

What types of crutches are available?

  • Traditional crutches. Also known as axillary crutches, traditional crutches are standard underarm crutches. Most modern axillary crutches are adjustable.
  • Forearm crutches. Unlike traditional crutches, forearm crutches remove the weight-bearing load from the armpit and move it to the forearm and wrist.
  • Sports-style crutches. Similar to traditional crutches, with a few key differences. Sports-style crutches have handles in a position similar to forearm crutches, allowing users to put more pressure on their wrists and forearms. Many sports-style crutches also have spring-loaded tips, which reduce impact stress and allow quicker movement.

3 common styles of rental crutches. From left to right: Standard crutches in silver with grey accents, a forearm crutch in silver with grey accents, and a pair of sports style crutches in black.

What are the differences between crutches?

Style Underarm Support Forearm Support Adjustable
Traditional Crutches X X
Forearm Crutches X X
Sports-Style Crutches X X X


What should I look for in a crutch rental?

First, you need to know if you’re strong enough to use crutches. If your upper body strength is not up to the stress of crutches you may be at risk for falls.

Second, you need to know approximately how long you’ll need crutches for. If you need crutches for more than a month, you may want to look at more comfortable sports crutch options.

When you figure out the answers to these two questions, check out pricing (listed below). Most crutches are cheap. Renting crutches for over 2 weeks may be more expensive than just buying a new set.

Are there any helpful crutch rental accessories?

Underarm pads and covers. If you have any significant distances to travel on foot (or crutch!) regularly, you may experience rubbing and/or bruising. Underarm padding reduces impact and rubbing with cushioning.

Handgrip covers are also available if you notice your hands bruising or callusing.

What is the price range for crutch rentals?

  • Daily: $5-$20
  • Weekly: $10-$25

Most service providers do not have monthly rental rates for crutches.

What is the price range for crutch purchases?

  • Traditional Crutches: $15-$50
  • Forearm Crutches: $50-$100
  • Sports-Style Crutches: $50-$150

These are the average prices for quality crutches. There are always outliers on both sides of the price range.

What is the break-even point for crutch rental vs. purchase?

Many medical equipment suppliers do not rent crutches due to affordable purchase prices.

I usually recommend purchasing crutches. After renting for 2+ weeks, you have already paid for a new pair of crutches with nothing to show!

Crutches are still widely used for many lower leg injuries. Buying crutches and storing them after use is always a great idea. One of your family members or friends may need a pair at some point!

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Walker Rentals

What are walkers rented for?

Walkers are primarily rented for injury and/or post-op recovery situations. Rentals are also common for travel—situations like visiting family with mobility issues.

What types of walkers are available?

  • Standard Walkers. One of the most common pieces of home medical equipment, standard walkers feature 4 legs.
  • Two-wheel Walkers. Similar to standard walkers, two-wheel walkers have 4 legs, but the front two have wheels instead of tips.

2 common rental walker styles. Left side shows a standard walker with 4 tips. The right side shows a standard walker with 2 wheels in front and 2 tips in back.

What are the differences between walkers?

Style Folding Adjustable Wheels
Standard X X
Two-Wheel X X X

What should I look for in a walker rental?

Walker rentals are straightforward. Rent a two-wheel walker unless your doctor says otherwise. Standard walkers require constant lifting to move. Two-wheel walkers allow some pushing, taking some of the weight burden off the shoulders.

Are there any helpful walker rental accessories?

There are many accessories available for walkers. Things like cushions, bags, baskets, grips and more come in all shapes and sizes.

The most helpful accessories available for standard and two-wheel walkers are walker skis. Walker skis (also known as walker glides) replace standard tips, allowing the walker to be pushed. Skis and glides are great for carpet and short thresholds.

Ditch the tennis balls—they collect dirt and germs on top of wearing out fast.

What is the price range for walker rentals?

  • Daily: $10-$25
  • Weekly: $15-$35

Most service providers do not offer pricing for monthly rental periods.

What is the price range for walker purchases?

  • Standard: $35-$60
  • Two-Wheel: $40-$100

These are the average prices for quality walkers. There are always outliers on both sides of the price range.

What is the break-even point for a walker rental vs. purchase?

Many medical equipment suppliers do not rent standard walkers due to affordable purchase prices.

Walkers, like crutches, are products I usually recommend purchasing over renting. If you need a walker for more than a week you will have already paid what you would for a brand-new walker!

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Rollator Rentals

What are rollators rented for?

Rollators (also known as rolling walkers) are primarily rented in the same situations as standard walkers. Rollators, however, are much better for anyone who is on the move. If you are looking for a walker to take on vacation, a rollator may be just what you need.

Most rollators come equipped with a seat, allowing users to take a break just about anywhere.

What types of rollators are available?

  • 3-Wheel Rollators. Three wheels and brakes.
  • 4-Wheel Rollators. Four wheels, brakes, and a seat. No special features.
  • Heavy-Duty/Bariatric Rollators. Four wheels, brakes, and a seat with a greater weight capacity than standard 4-wheel rollators.
  • Extra-Wide Rollators. If you need a standard rollator with more seat room, an extra-wide model is the way to go. Be sure to measure any doorways and see if the rollator will fit through them before renting or purchasing!

4 common styles of rollator rental units. From left to right: A 3-wheel rollator in blue, a 4-wheel rollator in red, a heavy-duty 4-wheel rollator in red with black accents, and an extra-wide rollator in red.

What are the differences between rollators?

Style Basket/Bag Seat Extra Weight Limit
3-Wheel X
4-Wheel X X
Heavy-Duty X X X
Extra-Wide X X X

There are several features to look for beyond just 3- and 4-wheeled variants. These include:

  • Seat height and width.
  • Patient height and weight ranges.
  • Frame styles. Some rollators have more bulk than others.
  • Storage bags and baskets. Think about how much storage space you need for everyday trips.

What should I look for in a rollator rental?

You need to make sure you are getting a rollator that fits your height, weight and build. Having good posture while using a rollator is not just better for your joints—good rollator posture is better for your safety! It’s easier to lose control of your rollator if you are hunched over and putting extra weight on it.

You will also want to check the width of any rental rollator options. Larger or wider rollators may have trouble fitting through doorways in older homes.

Are there any helpful rollator rental accessories?

Rollators have many accessories to make you more comfortable. Extra padding and seat cushions come in many shapes and styles. Cup holders are also available—great for long excursions!

If you are concerned about walking outside in the dark or in a dimly lit home, rollator flashlights are available.

What is the price range for rollator rentals?

  • Daily: $10-$25
  • Weekly: $25-$50

Most service providers do not have special monthly rental rates for rollators.

What is the price range for rollator purchases?

  • 3-Wheel: $75-$150
  • 4-Wheel: $75-$200
  • Heavy-Duty: $150-$400
  • Extra-Wide: $100-$250

These are the average prices for quality rollators. There will always be outliers on both sides of these price ranges.

What is the break-even point for a rollator rental vs. purchase?

Any rental period over 3 weeks. Renting a rollator for a week or two makes sense, most of them time even 3 weeks is fine (depending on your service provider’s rates). If you know you will need a rollator for over a month, you may want to look into a purchase and choose the unit you like best.

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Knee Scooter Rentals

What are knee scooters rented for?

Knee scooters (also known as knee walkers) are primarily rented to help recover from foot and ankle injuries or post-op recoveries. Knee scooters provide more speed than crutches but are more difficult to travel with.

What types of knee scooters are available?

  • Standard Knee Scooter. 4-wheels, locking brakes, and a pad to rest your leg on.
  • Heavy-Duty Knee Scooter. All the features of a standard knee scooter with a higher weight capacity.
  • Tall Knee Scooter. All the features of a standard knee scooter built for taller people. Some brands combine the heavy-duty and tall units into one heavy-duty or ‘XL’ unit.

3 common styles of knee-scooter rentals. From left to right: A standard knee scooter in silver with black accents, a heavy-duty knee scooter in red with black accents, and a tall knee scooter in blue with black accents.

What are the differences between knee scooters?

Style Adjustable Extra Height Extra Weight Limit
Standard X
Heavy Duty X X
Tall X X

Knee scooters are straight-forward pieces of medical equipment. The main differences between models and brands is height and weight ranges. Beyond sizing, knee scooters may have different wheel sizes and knee pad styles. Larger wheels are great for any ‘off-roading.’

What should I look for in a knee scooter?

Before renting be sure that the unit you’re looking at will accommodate your height and weight. You will want to make sure the knee pad is comfortable—if the pad is stiff you may need to cushion it yourself with an accessory.

Are there any helpful knee scooter rental accessories?

Extra padding and covers are the most common accessories purchased together with a knee scooter rental. Add-on items like cup holders, flashlights, and bags can also make your recovery period easier.

What is the price range for knee scooter rentals?

  • Daily: $25-$40
  • Weekly: $40-$80
  • Monthly: $120-$180

What is the price range for knee scooter purchases?

  • Standard Knee Walker: $200-$500
  • Tall Knee Walker: $400-$600
  • Heavy Duty Knee Walker: $400-$600

These are the average prices for quality knee scooters. There will always be outliers on both sides of these prices range.

What is the break-even point for a knee walker rental vs. purchase?

Around 6 weeks. Knee scooters are on the more expensive side of home medical equipment purchases. If you know you will need a knee walker for 4+ weeks, you may want to start looking at purchase options.

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Wheelchair Rentals

What are wheelchairs rented for?

Wheelchairs are primarily rented for two reasons.

The first reason is short term use for those who have difficulty with mobility, including trips to the doctor or a long day of shopping/events.

The second reason is a wheelchair is needed for travel or for home use due to visiting relatives.

Other reasons wheelchairs are rented include hosting large events and returning home after major surgery.

What types of wheelchairs are available?

  • Standard. 18” seat width, standard footrests
  • Extra-Wide/Heavy Duty. 19”-24” seat width, added weight capacity, standard footrests
  • Pediatric. Seat height and width built for pre-teens, standard footrests

3 common wheelchair rental styles. From left to right: A standard wheelchair in black, a heavy-duty (24" seat, 450 lb weight capacity) wheelchair in black, and a pediatric wheelchair with a yellow frame, black seat & black accents.

Extended leg footrests are available for most adult wheelchair rentals.

Many specific wheelchair options are hard to find rentals for. Features that are hard to find for a rental period include reclining seats, seat widths greater than 24”, and specialized leg rests (pediatric extended and other specialties).

What are the differences between wheelchairs?

Style Locking Brakes Extended Legrests* Size Options
Standard X X
X-Wide/Heavy-Duty X X X
Pediatric X

The main difference between wheelchairs from brand to brand is general construction including seat padding, back support, and wheel composition (rubber, plastic/spoked, non-spoked).

Seat padding and back support may be an issue with some users. Some manufacturers build wheelchairs with back support in mind (although finding them for rental periods can be difficult).

*Added rental fee

What should I look for in a wheelchair rental?

Accommodating height and weight specifications are the primary concerns you should have before renting a wheelchair. Forcing a person into a wheelchair that is too large or small for them can lead to problems.

Are there any helpful wheelchair rental accessories?

A large selection of seat cushions is available for wheelchairs. Foam, gel, and composite cushions are available for wheelchair seats 18”-24” in width.

What is the price range for wheelchair rentals?

  • Daily: $20-$40 | Pediatric: $35-$50
  • Weekly: $30-$75 | Pediatric: $45-$80
  • Monthly: $90-$150 | Pediatric: $120-$200

Pediatric wheelchairs are much more expensive than standard wheelchairs—rental rates correspond to this.

What is the price range for wheelchair purchases?

  • Standard: $150-$1000
  • Extra-Wide: $250-$1200
  • Pediatric: $400-$2000

These are the average prices for quality knee scooters. There will always be outliers on both sides of these prices range.

What is the break-even point for a wheelchair rental vs. purchase?

6 weeks. If you know that you will need a wheelchair for more than a month, you may want to look into the merits of purchasing a unit you like.

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Transport Chair Rentals

What are transport chairs rented for?

Transport chairs are basically lightweight wheelchairs. The key difference, however, is that transport chairs cannot be self-propelled. Transport wheelchair users must have someone to push them.

What types of transport chairs are available?

  • Standard. Standard transport chair features (seat, footrests, folding arms), standard unit weight.
  • Lightweight. Standard features, lightweight unit.
  • Deluxe. Standard features along with adjustable arms, larger wheels, and extra brakes.

3 common transport chair rental styles. From left to right: A standard steel transport chair in grey with black accents, a lightweight aluminum transport chair in red with black accents, and a deluxe transport chair model with large wheels & detaching breaks in blue with black accents.

All transport chairs come with a seatbelt for patients with dexterity and/or strength problems.

What are the differences between transport chairs?

Style Folding Arms Lightweight Frame Deluxe Features
Standard Steel X
Lightweight Aluminum X X
Deluxe X X

Transport chairs differ from brand-to-brand, model-to-model primarily by features. Things like wheel size, seat style, and folding features are different on most transport chair styles.

What should I look for in a transport chair rental?

As with most things on this list, make sure that the dimensions for any transport chair rental match your needs. If you plan on using a transport chair outside, you may want to look at larger wheel sizes, as they deal with uneven terrain better.

Are there any helpful transport chair rental accessories?

Transport chair accessories are similar to wheelchair accessories. Foam, gel, and composite cushions are available for transport chairs.

What is the price range for transport chair rentals?

  • Daily: $20-$35
  • Weekly: $30-$60
  • Monthly: $90-$150

What is the price range for transport chair purchases?

  • Steel: $125-$300
  • Aluminum: $150-$400
  • Deluxe: $250-$600

These are the average prices for quality knee scooters. There will always be outliers on both sides of these prices range.

What is the break-even point for a transport chair rental vs. purchase?

6 weeks. As with wheelchairs, you should look at purchasing a transport chair if you know you will need it for over a month.

Transport chairs are great rental items—they are lightweight, easy to transport, and have many of the same functions as a wheelchair. Transport chair purchases are primarily made by caregivers or family members who live close by the user.

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Mobility Scooter Rentals

What are mobility scooters rented for?

Long outdoor trips or large indoor events (sports games, graduation ceremonies, conventions). Scooters give mobility and speed to those who are unable to walk long distances.

What types of mobility scooters are available?

  • Standard Mobility Scooter. Comes in 3- and 4-wheel variations. Small to midsize scooters that do not break down or fold for travel.
  • Travel Mobility Scooter. Travel scooters come in 3- and 4-wheel variations. Small to midsize scooters that breakdown or fold for easy travel.
  • Full-Size. Large scooters available in 3- and 4-wheel models. Full-size scooters need special accommodations when traveling (car lift).

3 common types of mobility scooter rentals. From left to right: A standard mobility scooter in blue, a foldable travel mobility scooter in white/silver, and a full-size mobility scooter in red with grey accents.

What are the differences between mobility scooters?

Style 3 or 4 Wheels Rent Breaks Down
Standard X X
Travel X X X
Full-Size X

Standard and travel models are typically rented. Full-size scooters are too large to fit in most cars. Full-size scooters are usually on-site rental units (at amusement parks). Make sure you are able to travel with any rental you decide on!

What should I look for in a mobility scooter rental?

Battery life! Make sure any scooter you rent holds a charge, travels the distance you need, and is easy to recharge.

If you’re looking at mobility scooter styles there are a few other things you may want to consider.

Wheel size can matter if you’re doing a lot of outdoor riding. Grass, gravel, and (the worst) mud can be handled easily by large wheels and a decent ground-unit clearance.

Seat styles can also be a make or break deal when it comes to scooter rentals. Make sure that any scooter you plan on renting has decent cushioning. If you plan to spend a lot of time on a rental scooter, seat comfort matters almost as much as battery life!

Are there any helpful mobility scooter rental accessories?

If you can’t find a scooter with a halfway-decent seat, cushions are the way to go. Wheelchair and transport chair cushions can double for mobility scooter cushions in a pinch.

Most mobility scooter accessories are quality-of-life upgrades. Things like cupholders, extra basket space, and visibility flags. If you need a specific upgrade for your scooter rental, be sure to ask your service provider.

What is the price range for mobility scooter rentals?

  • Daily: $50-$100
  • Weekly: $100-$250
  • Monthly: $300-$500

These are rental prices based on standard and travel mobility scooters. Most providers do not rent full-size mobility scooters.

What is the price range for mobility scooter purchases?

  • Standard: $750-$2000
  • Travel: $800-$2500
  • Full-Size: $1500-$5000+

Please note that mobility scooter purchase prices vary more than most home medical equipment prices. Many companies offer custom features that can significantly raise the price of any scooter purchases.

Full-Size mobility scooters also include custom scooters (think mobility scooters built to look like a motorcycle or a Model T), which tend to be very expensive.

With that said, the above price ranges are generally what you can expect to pay for a mobility scooter if you decide to buy instead of rent.

What is the break-even point for a mobility scooter rental vs. purchase?

8+ weeks. Mobility scooters are primarily rented short-term for special events and vacations. If you are thinking about renting a mobility scooter for more than six weeks, you should also think about purchasing.

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Power Wheelchair Rentals

What are power wheelchairs rented for?

Short-term use for indoor events and visits. Power wheelchairs can also be rented in place of a mobility scooter for those without the strength or dexterity to handle a scooter.

What types of power wheelchairs are available?

  • Travel Power Wheelchairs. 4-wheeled units controlled by a joystick. Power wheelchairs in the travel category can breakdown into several pieces for easy travel.
  • Standard Power Wheelchairs. 4- to 6-wheeled units controlled by a joystick. Standard power chairs are much heavier than travel versions and usually need special accommodations to travel.

2 common styles of power wheelchairs. The left image shows a small, folding power wheelchair in green with black accents. On the right is a full-size Jazzy power wheelchair in red with black accents.

What are the differences between power wheelchairs?

Most rental power wheelchairs are travel models. Standard power wheelchairs are specialty or custom products and not good options for short term rentals.

What should I look for in a power wheelchair rental?

Ease-of-use. Power wheelchairs are controlled by a hand joystick and take some getting used to. Renting a power chair blind (meaning the user never tries it before the rental begins) can end in disaster if the user can’t get used to the controls.

Are there any helpful power wheelchair accessories?

Wheelchair/transport chair cushions can make a world of difference covering firm seats. Specific power wheelchair options are limited. The best way to find out what’s available is to ask your service provider what they carry.

What is the price range for power wheelchair rentals?

  • Daily: $50-$150
  • Weekly: $100-$250
  • Monthly: $300-$500

These price ranges only take travel-style power wheelchairs into consideration. Most service providers do not offer standard power wheelchair rentals.

What is the price range for power wheelchair purchases?

  • Travel: $1300-$3000
  • Standard: $2500+

Standard power wheelchairs include units like the synonymous Pride Jazzy series and go up from there. Most Standard units are for regular power wheelchair users and not recommended to rent (if you find one).

What is the break-even point for a power wheelchair rental vs. purchase?

6+ weeks. Travel power wheelchair rentals are normally very short term. Travel power wheelchairs can be a big help in the right situations (cramped living spaces, crowded events).

If you have been looking at mobility scooter rentals, but think that even the travel-sized units are too big, a power wheelchair rental may be just what you need.

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Ramp Rentals

What are ramps rented for?

Accessibility to older or non-ADA compliant homes and buildings.

What types of ramps are available?

2 common styles of ramp rental units. On the left is a standard, middle-folding ramp in silver with black grip tape. The right side shows a tri-fold ramp in silver with black grip tape.

What are the differences between ramps?

Length, weight capacity, and unit weight. Length is the most important—make sure any ramp you rent is long enough to bridge stairs at a safe incline.

The general rule for having a safe incline is 1 foot of ramp per 1 inch of step. This is not always true: this guide by EZ Access gives a more fleshed-out version of how to measure for ramp size. Remember to check any guides from specific manufacturers before renting any ramp.

What should I look for in a ramp rental?

Ramps are easy. Make sure that any ramp you rent is long enough and can support the weight that will be put on it. Most ramps support 750+ lbs. Just remember to consider patient weight, equipment weight (wheelchair, scooter) and the weight of anything else (caregiver) that will be on the ramp at the same time.

Also be sure to discuss any installation issues with your service provider. Most ramps don’t have an installation process, but you want to make absolutely sure that you are using your ramp correctly.

Are there any helpful ramp rental accessories?

Most ramps do not have accessories.

What is the price range for ramp rentals?

  • Weekly: $30-$150
  • Monthly: $90-$450

Most service providers do not have daily ramp rental prices listed. These may seem like broad rental price ranges—that’s because they are. Rental ramps can be anywhere from 1’-12’ long and the price changes for longer ramps.

What is the price range for ramp purchases?

  • Standard Folding Ramps: $150-$750
  • Tri-Fold Ramps: $500-$1500

Most ramps are standard fold. The breaking point, where a folding ramp turns into a tri-fold ramp, is around 10 feet.

What is the break-even point for a ramp rental vs. purchase?

4-5 weeks. If you think you may need a ramp for over a month, purchasing could be the way to go. Most ramp rentals are for visiting family and friends with disabilities. If you know a visitor will need a ramp, you should give them a call before they arrive—it could save you some time looking for a rental unit!

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Hospital Bed Rentals

What are hospital beds rented for?

Hospital beds are primarily rented for those recovering at home after major surgeries.

What types of hospital beds are available?

Most service providers that rent hospital beds only rent standard-size beds. Hospital beds become much more expensive for any special additions.

An example image of a hospital bed rental unit. The unit is shown without a mattress or rails, with the spring-frame headboard raised to a 45-degree angle.

What should I look for in a hospital bed rental?

Weight capacity and bed dimensions. Make sure the bed you are renting will fit the person who needs it and fit in the room where you plan on putting it.

Also, MAKE SURE that the hospital bed you plan on renting is an electric model. Some providers still rent manual hospital beds that require cranking to raise up or down!

Are there any helpful hospital bed rental accessories?

Most service providers sell mattresses separately (and they don’t rent mattresses). Make sure to find a mattress that is comfortable and easy to move after the recovery period.

Bed rails are also common accessories that go with bed rentals. Some providers include bed rails with hospital bed rentals while others don’t. Bed rails also come in many varieties, so you may find a purchase option more appealing than the comes-with-the-rental option.

What is the price range for hospital bed rentals?

  • Weekly: $100-$300
  • Monthly: $250-$750

What is the price range for hospital bed purchases?

Hospital bed costs start at around $600 for a bed of decent quality and top off around $3500. This price range is for basic, home medical equipment-style hospital beds.

Home medical hospital bed mattresses retail for around $150-$300. These are not typical mattresses, they are designed to be lightweight and flexible so they can move with the hospital bed frame.

Airflow and other specialty mattresses start at $400. If your doctor mentions any type of specialty mattress for recovery, make sure to call your service provider to see if they stock it.

This price range doesn’t take medical-grade hospital beds into consideration, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

What is the break-even point for a hospital bed rental vs. purchase?

One Month. If you need a hospital bed for over a month, you should look into purchasing over renting. Purchasing allows you to choose whatever model you want so you can sleep comfortably over a longer period of time.

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Patient Lift Rentals

What are patient lifts rented for?

Patient lifts are mainly rented for short-term use before purchasing a patient lift.

What types of patient lifts are available?

  • Standard Patient Lift/Hoyer Lift. Patient lifts are sometimes called Hoyer lifts, after the manufacturer (like calling tissue Kleenex). Patient lifts lift patients up via a sling (sold separately and usually not rented) attached to a mechanical arm. Standard lifts come in manual and electric versions, so be sure to get the type you need.
  • Stand-Assist Lifts. Stand-assist lifts are designed to help patients who still have upper body strength transfer from one seat to another. Similar to standard patient lifts, stand-assist lifts need a sling to function properly.

2 common styles of patient lift rentals. The left image shows a standard electric patient lift with a 4-pronged sling holder connected to one arm lift. On the right side there is a manual stand-assist lift in white with black shin and shoulder pads.

What are the differences between patient lifts?

Standard patient lifts are for users who do not have the ability to move from one place to another without assistance. Stand-assist lifts are for users who need help transferring from one seat to another, basically a high-tech version of a wheelchair transfer board.

Both types of rental patient lifts come in manual and electric motorized versions. Most people need the powered version, so be sure to get the correct lift when you’re ready to rent!

What should I look for in a patient lift rental?

Patient lift rental customers usually know exactly what they need. Renting a patient lift is expensive and usually the stopgap before purchasing a unit. Your doctor or physical therapist should tell you what type of unit you need.

Sling options are the area of patient lift rentals/purchases users need assistance with. Be sure to ask your provider about sling options.

Are there any helpful patient lift rental accessories?

There are hundreds of sling options available for patient lifts and stand-assist units. Be sure to get a patient lift sling that suits your needs!

What is the price range for patient lift rentals?

  • Weekly: $125-$300
  • Monthly: $375-$800

What is the price range for patient lift purchases?

  • Manual Standard Patient Lift: $700-$3000
  • Electric Standard Patient Lift: $900-$4000
  • Manual Stand-Assist Lift: $500-$2500
  • Electric Stand-Assist Lift: $800-$4000

Top-end units (brand names like Hoyer) cost much more than the ‘generic’ options. The low ranges above represent high-quality, non-brand name options. The high ranges represent brand name patient lifts and custom-style units.

Remember, there will always be outliers on both sides of these prices range.

What is the break-even point for a patient lift rental vs. purchase?

Patient lift rentals should not be looked at with a ‘is it better to rent or buy’ mindset. Patient lifts are not built to travel, so short-term vacation/hosting rentals don’t come up often.

You should look at renting a patient lift while you wait for your purchased unit to ship or if you want to test a unit your service provider offers.

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Cold Therapy Machine Rentals

What are cold therapy machines rented for?

Cold therapy machines are primarily rented to aid in your body’s recovery process. Athletic injuries and post-op recovery are the most common reasons for considering a cold therapy machine rental.

What types of cold therapy machines are available?

Cold therapy machines differ from provider to provider, but all non-hospital rental units are similar. A small tank that holds ice water is connected to a circulation pad.

Example image of a cold therapy machine rental unit. The DonJoy Iceman 3 unit is shown next to an example 'universal' cold therapy machine pad.

The main difference between cold therapy machines is how various manufacturers designed their pads. Don’t worry—all manufacturers have a ‘universal’ pad that will work in almost any situation.

What should I look for in a cold therapy machine rental?

Take a look at the pad styles that are available. If your service provider doesn’t have a pad specific to the injured area, ask if they can order one. As versatile as universal-style cold therapy machine pads are, they can’t replace specific knee, shoulder, thigh etc. pads.

Are there any helpful cold therapy machine rental accessories?

Some service providers may offer covers for the pads. Covers provide a barrier between the skin and the circulation pad. Cold therapy pads get very cold! If this sounds like something you need, don’t sweat it too much—a towel or rag will do in a pinch.

What is the price range for cold therapy machine rentals?

  • Weekly: $30-$75
  • Monthly: $90-$150

Remember that pads are not included with rental prices. Cold therapy machine pads are always sold separately due to hygienic issues.

What is the price range for cold therapy machine purchases?

Modern cold therapy machines sell for $200, give or take. Universal pads are generally included with cold therapy unit purchases, but not rentals. Pads typically retail for $30-$70, based on style and size.

What is the break-even point for a cold therapy machine rental vs. purchase?

Cold therapy machines are very rental friendly units. Usually, 1-2 weeks of renting will cover any doctor recommendation. If your doctor or physical therapist says you will need a cold therapy machine for more than one month of use, you should think about purchasing one.

Medical Equipment Rentals From Oswald’s Pharmacy

If you are in the Naperville or Chicago area and need any of the products listed above, don’t hesitate to give us a call or send us an email. Our Medical Equipment Showroom team members will be happy to answer any questions you have or help set up a rental reservation for you.

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