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The Maryland Department of Aging and the Maryland Department of Disabilities are announcing a joint initiative to provide Marylanders who have mobility, medical, and accessibility needs with equipment to help them remain independent in their community.
The new collaborative initiative, Maryland Equips, aims to provide free medical equipment and assistive technology to Marylanders with any disability, illness, or injury who need additional support to remain comfortable and connected. Products available from Maryland’s Durable Medical Equipment Re-use program and High-Tech AT Reuse Center include wheelchairs, power scooters, speech communication devices, bathroom chairs and railing, adapted computer equipment and telephones, home hospital beds, mechanical lifts, magnifiers, and eye-gaze systems, among other adaptive products and services.
Maryland Equips will launch on June 22, 2024, the 25th anniversary of the Olmstead Act, which substantially advanced the rights of people with disabilities.
“The Olmstead decision was so significant because it shifted public policy to require states to support independence and integration for people with disabilities,” said MDOD Secretary Carol A. Beatty. “Maryland Equips will complement disability programs in Maryland by providing adaptive technology and equipment at no cost to those who need it, impacting thousands of lives by fostering inclusive, community-based options.”
The collaboration between the Maryland Department of Disabilities and the Maryland Department of Aging is part of Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM), a multisector plan to address the challenges and maximize the benefits of an expanding aging population in Maryland. It aligns with Governor Moore’s goal to enhance coordination of services across state agencies and LRM’s goal to optimize health, wellness, and mobility to benefit Marylanders of all ages.
“We have a very robust set of medical equipment and supportive technology programs among our respective departments,” said MDOA Secretary Carmel Roques. “Unfortunately, not enough Marylanders are aware of what is available, and how to get it. Our Maryland Equips collaboration is intended to consolidate resources so we can move more equipment into the homes of Marylanders who need support to live full lives in the community.”
Supportive equipment and technology can improve mobility, make daily activities safer, and foster communications between people with disabilities and the outside world. Any Maryland resident who has an injury, illness, or disability, and could benefit from supportive equipment or technology is encouraged to apply—regardless of age or income. The equipment is free, and the application process is often less complicated and with faster turnaround times than going through most insurance providers.
“Without the equipment, I would not have been released from the rehabilitation center,” said Patrick O’Malley, advanced power wheelchair, powered hoyer lift, and home hospital bed recipient. “ I’m not sure what would’ve happened to be honest with you. Having this equipment is a godsend.”
For more information about the programs offered through Maryland Equips, visit aging.maryland.gov/MarylandEquips or contact Colleen Doyle at colleen.doyle@maryland.gov.
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