Which component of Medicare provides coverage for durable medical equipment?

Part B of Medicare provides coverage for durable medical equipment (DME). This includes items like wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen equipment that are deemed medically necessary for treating a specific condition. Under Part B, beneficiaries generally must pay a monthly premium and may also be responsible for a deductible and a coinsurance percentage for the cost of the equipment.

Part A primarily covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health services, but does not cover most DME. Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, includes all benefits from Parts A and B and often offers additional coverage through private insurance plans; however, the actual rules and coverage specifics can vary by provider. Part D focuses on prescription drug coverage, thus it does not include DME.

Therefore, the correct response is that Part B is the component that specifically addresses coverage for durable medical equipment, making it essential for beneficiaries who need these types of items for their healthcare.