SPECIALIZED MEDICAL EQUIPMENT SERVICES PROVIDER IN MICHIGAN

Fatumata Kaba
Jul 27, 2025
3 min read

SUPPORTING INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES THROUGH MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Specialized Medical Equipment Services in Michigan are designed to support individuals with disabilities by providing essential medical devices that enhance their health, safety, and independence. These services are authorized under the Michigan Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers and must follow protocols set by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

1. GOVERNING AGENCIES

Agency: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
Role: Oversees provider enrollment, service authorization, and Medicaid compliance.
Agency: Michigan Medicaid Agency
Role: Handles Medicaid provider enrollment and reimbursement for Specialized Medical Equipment Services.
Agency: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Role: Provides federal oversight and ensures compliance with HCBS waiver rules.

2. SERVICE OVERVIEW

Specialized Medical Equipment Services provide individuals with essential medical devices and modifications to help them manage their health and maintain independence. These services are person-centered and based on individual needs as outlined in the care plan.

Approved providers may deliver:

Assessment and consultation to determine appropriate medical equipment.
Purchase and installation of medical devices (e.g., oxygen equipment, mobility aids).
Training for individuals and caregivers on using and maintaining the equipment.
Routine maintenance, repairs, and device calibration.
Documentation of usage, maintenance, and compliance with safety standards.

3. LICENSING & PROVIDER APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS

Prerequisites:

Register your business with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA).
Obtain EIN from the IRS and NPI (Type 2).
Maintain a physical office or service location in Michigan.
Demonstrate expertise in durable medical equipment and assistive device management.
Hire staff trained in the installation, maintenance, and safety checks of medical equipment.
Maintain clear financial and service tracking systems.

4. PROVIDER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

Initial Interest and Application:

Request the Specialized Medical Equipment Provider Application Packet from MDHHS.
Submit a detailed service plan outlining how services will be delivered and monitored.
Include policies for equipment selection, maintenance, and safety training.

Background & Credentialing:

Background checks for staff involved in equipment setup or direct client contact.
Verification of technical skills related to medical device maintenance and safety.

Program Readiness Review:

Demonstrate the ability to assess client needs and manage medical devices.
Establish protocols for routine maintenance and emergency response.

5. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Articles of Incorporation or LLC Certificate.
IRS EIN Letter.
NPI confirmation.
Lease or proof of office location in Michigan.
MDHHS-Compliant Policy & Procedure Manual including:
- Equipment procurement and maintenance protocols.
- Training and support documentation.
- Safety and emergency response standards.
- Financial tracking and maintenance logs.

6. STAFFING REQUIREMENTS

Role: Equipment Coordinator

Requirements: Experience with durable medical equipment and healthcare safety.

Role: Medical Equipment Technician

Requirements: Certification in medical device installation and maintenance.

All staff must complete:

MDHHS orientation and HCBS Waiver training.
Annual safety, maintenance, and compliance training.
Confidentiality, ethics, and client rights training.

7. MEDICAID WAIVER SERVICES

Michigan Medicaid Waivers that authorize Specialized Medical Equipment Services include:

MI Choice Waiver
Habilitation Supports Waiver
Children’s Waiver Program

Approved providers may deliver:

Assessment and procurement of medical devices
Training for device usage
Routine maintenance and safety checks

8. TIMELINE TO LAUNCH

Phase: Business Formation

Timeline: 0–1 week

Phase: MDHHS Application Review

Timeline: 60–90 days

Phase: Financial Readiness and Program Review

Timeline: 30–60 days

Phase: Medicaid Enrollment

Timeline: 60–90 days

9. CONTACT INFORMATION

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) – Division of Long-Term Care Services
Email: ltcprovider@michigan.gov
Phone: (517) 335-1980
Website: MDHHS Website
Michigan Medicaid Agency – Waiver Services
Website: Michigan Medicaid