Dr. Jeffrey Oster (Myfootshop.com) Advises on Buying Medical Goods on Internet

In these days of high deductibles and consumer directed health plans, patients are becoming savvy shoppers. One of the most common purchases that patients are faced with is that of durable medical goods. Durable medical good include non-disposable items such as braces, casts, hospital beds, wheelchairs and scooters – anything that can be used over and over again by the patient.

Durable medical goods are usually dispensed from your doctor’s office or medical supply company. But many patients are now turning to the internet as a source of discounted durable medical goods. Are Internet purchases of durable medical goods a good idea? We asked Dr. Jeffrey Oster, medical director of Myfootshop.com about purchasing durable medical goods on the Internet.

"Traditionally, durable medical goods have been a staple in medical practices." Oster said. "Doctors offer durable medical goods as a convenience to their patients, but often charge much more than the market rate. The Internet represents a unique opportunity for many patients to find value in the purchase of durable medical goods."

Dr. Oster suggested the following tips when buying durable medical goods on the Internet;

Ask your doctor to write down the name of the product that he/she wants you to use. If you are unsure of the intent for which the product is to be used, be sure to contact your doctor.
Be sure to ask your doctor for instructions for use. For example, how long should a device be worn, how often should it be changed or how often should it be used.
Verify web site credentials. Health care web sites that sell durable medical goods are often credentialed by The Better Business Bureau, HON (Health on the Net) or other organizations that are indicators of good business practices.
Seek advice from the web retailer as to which product is most popular for your condition or use.
Spend a bit of time evaluating your web retailer for accuracy of medical information including the date and author of written content.


"Pricing is transparent on the Internet" said Oster. "A walking cast that may cost $400 in your doctor’s office may cost less than $50 on the internet. And it’s so easy to shop and compare prices." Dr. Oster stressed that you seek the guidance of both your doctor and the web site from which you make your purchases.

As the cost of healthcare spirals out of control, individuals are asked to assume a greater role in purchases and payment of services. The Internet represents a unique and wonderful opportunity to save on the cost of durable medical goods for those patients who are willing to invest the time in doing a little homework