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The Loan Closet of Howard County is a Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use program. Many residents of our county require the use of durable medical equipment (DME) such as wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, and other assistive devices, in order to maintain their safety and mobility either on a short term or long term basis. Often the cost of this equipment is a financial burden, not only to uninsured residents, but also to insured residents whose insurance will not approve the equipment needed or whose approval is delayed. We provide DME to Howard County residents with any injury, illness, or medical status, regardless of age, at no cost.

1. ​Step 1: The Referring Provider (MD, PT, OT, DO, PA, or CRNP only) assesses the need for DME & obtains a Healthcare Referral Form. The Healthcare referral form is necessary to ensure that the client is safe & able to use the prescribed equipment.
2. Step 2: The Referring Provider fills out the Provider Information section, checks off the equipment they are recommending for the client & signs the form. The Client Information section can be filled out by the Referring Provider or the Client/Caregiver.
3. Step 3: Once all sections of the Healthcare Referral Form are completed, the form should be submitted (by either party) to our program via fax: 410-313-0369 or email: loancloset@howardcountymd.gov  
4. Step 4: Once the Loan Closet receives the completed Healthcare Referral form, we will contact the client/caregiver via the phone number provided. If the equipment is in stock, a pick-up appointment will be scheduled. The appointment ensures that the Loan Closet Staff can verify that the requested equipment is in stock, cleaned & ready to distributed by the scheduled pick-up time. Note: If the pick-up appointment needs to be scheduled with a party other than the Client, please put their name & phone number in Section 4(Person Picking Up Equipment).

• Equipment Flow Chart Graphic