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Frequently Asked Questions
Insurance and Billing
Q: How quickly can I receive my equipment/garments?
A: As quickly as your physician can complete the necessary paperwork.
Q: What can I do to help expedite the process?
A: Call your doctor and check on the status of prescription/detailed written order and supporting medical notes for product. Also call your insurance company to double check your eligibility.
Q: What type of walker is covered by my insurance?
A: Most insurances will cover a standard aluminum walker as well as front wheels if necessary. Rollators are not a covered item.
Q: Is TENS covered by my insurance?
A: Insurance may cover a TENS unit if the treatments are deemed medically necessary. We will verify your insurance eligibility and if not covered, we have affordable self-pay options.
Q: Will my insurance cover post-mastectomy products?
A: Many insurance plans consider post-mastectomy items to be billable with a prescription and supporting medical notes. Your plan may have a deductible and/or coinsurance that you are responsible for. Care coordinators at MedCOR will be happy to contact your insurance provider to determine what benefits you are eligible for and how much out-of-pocket cost you would have for each item. We would need to know your member ID number, which should be located on your member ID card and insurance paperwork. If for some reason we are unable to contact your insurance company or if we are out of network, we can provide you with the verbiage and billing codes to call on your own to ask about submitting a claim. We do offer self-pay pricing when we are unable to bill someone's insurance.
Appointments and Ordering
Q: How do I make an appointment?
A: You can call us at 207-222-2828 Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30 to schedule an appointment. Leave a message if you reach our voicemail and we will get right back to you!
Q: How quickly can I receive my equipment/garments?
A: As quickly as your physician can complete the necessary paperwork.
Q: What can I do to help expedite the process?
A: Call your doctor and check on the status of prescription/detailed written order and supporting medical notes for product. Also call your insurance company to double check your eligibility.
Q: Do I need an appointment for Post-Mastectomy?
A: Yes! Calling ahead to schedule an appointment will guarantee that a fitter will be available for you without having to wait. If billing insurance, we will communicate with you and your doctor's office ahead of time to make sure we have all necessary paperwork. Our hours are 8:30AM-4:30PM Monday through Friday. Call 207-222-2828 to make an appointment.
Mobility
Q: How will I know which type of mobility aid will work best for me?
A: Our friendly staff will ask questions to learn about your lifestyle and mobility challenges. We will then show you all the options we have available and let you try them for fit and comfort.
Q: How can I get the brakes on my walker or wheelchair adjusted?
A: We can make adjustments on most models of walker or wheelchair. Call us at 207-222-2828 or visit our store to inquire about your brand and model.
Q: Do you sell replacement parts for walkers or wheelchairs?
A: We can order replacement parts for several brands of walkers and wheelchairs. Call us at 207-222-2828 or visit our store to inquire about your brand and model.
Bath/Home Safety
Q: Do you have products to help me get in and out of the shower safely?
A: Yes, we carry a variety of bath safety items to help you bathe safely.
Compression
Q: How do compression stockings work?
A: Compression stockings are more snug at the ankle/wrist and less snug as it goes up your leg/arm. In this way it increases your circulation and helps decrease swelling.
Q: How long should my compression stockings last?
A: After wearing compression every day the compression strength will decrease month after month. We recommend getting new garments after 4-6 months of consistent use.
Q: How should my compression stockings feel?
A: They should feel comfortably snug, but not tight.
Q: How do I care for my compression stockings?
A: Wash in warm or cold water with a mild liquid soap (not Woolite). You can hand wash and air dry or machine wash/dry using a laundry bag and delicate setting.
Q: How important is it to work with a professional fitter for compression garments?
A: Being measured ensures you are getting the correct fit as well as instructions on how to don (put on) and doff (take off) the stockings.
Q: My compression garment has a tear in it, does it need to be replaced?
A: Compression garments should be replaced every 4-6 months. Call us at 207-222-2828 to discuss your situation or to make an appointment.
Bracing
Q: What conditions/injuries are back braces designed to treat?
A: Physicians and therapists prescribe or suggest braces for various reasons. Common indications include, but are not limited to: chronic low back pain, undiagnosed pain relief, sprains/strains, decompressive procedures, degenerative disc disease, bulging or herniated disc, fracture management, spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, spondylosis, structural kyphosis, SI dysfunction, postoperative support.
Q: Should I wear the back brace under my clothes?
A: Yes, back braces can be worn under clothing, but an undershirt is recommended next to skin for enhanced comfort.
Q: For how long should I wear the back brace?
A: If your prescribing physician or therapist gave you a protocol, follow their protocol. Otherwise, we suggest using the back brace as a situational tool. This means wearing only during activities that cause discomfort in your back. Back braces are not meant to be worn 24/7.
Q: How do I clean a back brace?
A: Use a mild soap and water to clean the brace by hand washing. Rinse thoroughly and pat out any excessive moisture. Allow to air dry completely. Do not use harsh chemicals or machine wash/dry.
Q: How important is it to work with a professional fitter for my brace?
A: Being measured by one of our experienced fitters will ensure that you are getting the correct fit for your brace and understand the use and care of the product.
Post Mastectomy & Maternity
Q: How important is it to work with a Certified Mastectomy Fitter?
A: Our caring Certified Mastectomy Fitters are here to help you. You will be personally fit for garments to ensure appropriate size and comfort and we will review all your product options with you. Please call us at 207-222-2828 to schedule an appointment with our certified fitters.
Q: Will people be able to tell I'm wearing a breast prosthesis?
A: No, MedCOR Professionals certified fitters will measure you in our private and comfortable fitting rooms and help you select the best products to fit your body and lifestyle.
Q: Does insurance cover post-mastectomy products?
A: Yes, if you have a physician's prescription, most insurance providers, including Medicare, cover post-mastectomy products and supplies.
Q: Do you carry breast pumps?
A: Yes, we carry a Single Electric Breast Pump that is covered by many insurance plans with a valid prescription.
Q: Will I be able to try on my bra before buying it?
A: Our caring Certified Mastectomy Fitters are here to help you. We will schedule an appointment with you, so we have plenty of time to review all your options. All our customers are personally fit for garments to ensure appropriate size and comfort. Please call us at 207-222-2828 to schedule an appointment with our certified fitters.
Q: I have recently had breast surgery. What products will I need?
A: Depending on the type of surgery you have had and how long ago that surgery took place, we offer a variety of products. For immediately after surgery, we carry cotton camisoles with front closures for something easy and comfortable to wear while recovering. These camisoles have the option for attachable drain pouches and lightweight (fiber fill) prostheses. Within the first six weeks of recovery, you may be ready to transition from the camisole to leisure bras, which are commonly made with high cotton content and front or back closures. Compression bras can be great during this time as well. Beyond six weeks after surgery and/or when your doctor determines you are ready, you can get silicone prostheses and pocketed bras. If you had a lumpectomy (removal of portion of breast), a silicone partial prosthesis works great to smooth out and create more symmetry. If you had a mastectomy (full removal of one or both breasts), a silicone prosthesis can replace the missing breast(s). There are a lot of shapes and styles to choose from, so working with a fitter can help make the selection process easier. Any prosthesis can be fit into pocketed bras. These bras are crafted by manufacturers who strive for comfort, ease of wear, and beauty in their designs. Many colors, strap and closure options, fabrics, and styles are available.
Q: How soon after surgery can I be fitted for my breast prosthesis?
A: After surgery, your doctor will likely recommend the appropriate timeline for you to start wearing a prosthesis. For you to have your first fitting for a silicone breast form, it usually takes four to six weeks after your surgery for the necessary healing to occur. All wounds must be closed, and stitches must be removed for you to come for a fitting appointment. Often, doctors will write a prescription for post-mastectomy items (bras & prostheses) when they determine readiness. Your doctor can fax the prescription to MedCOR at 207-221-9622 and a customer care representative will be in touch within 24 hours to let you know we received the referral and discuss the process for setting up an appointment.
Q: I have elected to have reconstruction on one side following a mastectomy. My breasts are noticeably different in shape & size and the reconstructed one is higher than my natural side. What can I do?
A: A partial prosthesis can be the perfect fit. They come in many sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Even in cases of reconstruction, retail bras may not be the best fit because of the way they are designed to be filled out by the structure of natural breasts. You may consider anything from a partial prosthesis to a stick-on nipple to a well-fitting structured bra. A fitter can help you choose the right products to match your skin color and individual needs.
Q: I've lost/gained weight since my reconstruction and now my reconstructed side is different than my natural size.
A: Restoring weight and balance after breast surgery and getting symmetry back sometime means wearing a partial on the natural side. We gain or lose breast tissue when we gain or lose weight. This is perfectly normal.
Q: Why do I need to be specially fitted for a breast form and bra?
A: Breast shapes, skin tones, surgeries, and body types vary. A Certified Mastectomy Fitter has been specially trained to help you choose a breast form that best matches your natural breast and will help restore balance and symmetry. The fitter will also measure you for pocketed bras to hold your form in place and discuss the benefits of a properly fitting bra and breast form. Education will be provided on the use and care of all products you are fitted with.
Q: Can I bring someone with me to the fitting appointment?
A: Absolutely! Many patients bring someone. This is your time, and we want it to be an informative and pleasurable visit. You can come alone or bring someone with you; it's up to you.
Q: What is the importance of wearing a prosthesis?
A: The fitting of a breast prosthesis is not only for aesthetic appearances, but also a therapeutic measure that replaces the weight of the breast. When fitted with a breast prosthesis that matches in size to the remaining breast, the weight equilibrium of the body is kept in balance.
Not wearing a prosthesis or wearing one that is too heavy or to light can result in the following - spinal curvature, shoulder drop, muscle contracture with accompanying discomfort such as neck or back pain and balance problems.
Not wearing a prosthesis or wearing one that is too heavy or to light can result in the following - spinal curvature, shoulder drop, muscle contracture with accompanying discomfort such as neck or back pain and balance problems.
Q: How long will my prosthesis last?
A: Most breast prostheses are warranted against manufacturer's defects for two years from the date of purchase. The warranty does not cover damage to the form from punctures, burns, or from erosion to the outer layer due to lotions or fragrances. With proper use, care and storage, your form should provide years of comfortable wear. Most insurance companies follow this timeline and allow you to get a new form every two years. With these benefits, a new prescription every two years would mean a new form every two years. We have heard many patients mention that they will use old forms for different activities as they accumulate more over time. For example, one patient likes to use her old forms for swimming. Another patient keeps one set at her residence in Maine and an old set at her residence in Florida.
Q: How do I care for my prosthesis?
A: Skin oils can break down the outer layer of a prosthesis and shorten its useful life. We recommend that you hand wash it with mild liquid soap (avoid strong perfumes) and water and pat dry daily as you would a natural body part. Allowing perspiration, body acids, oils, chemicals from perfumes, bath powders, etc. to build up for an extended period will reduce the life of your product. The form should be stored in the breast form box to help preserve its shape. Consider removing jewelry from your hands before handling your breast form to avoid scratching/puncturing it. Take care when playing with your pets. Sharp nails/claws can puncture the product through your clothing.
Q: Will wearing a breast form restrict my activities?
A: Not at all. You can participate in all your normal activities! When breast prostheses are fit correctly in a pocketed bra, they are meant to feel natural and comfortable. If you feel that a regular prosthesis hinders performance in certain activities, you might want to explore specialty forms, such as swim forms and active forms. These specialty prostheses are crafted with features for enhanced performance.
Q: Can I wear my breast form while swimming?
A: Yes. Regardless of the form you wear during your water activities, be sure to clean it thoroughly afterward to remove chlorine, salt, and other residues. They do make specialty swim prostheses that have channels for more efficient water drainage. These are great for people who love to participate in water sports like surfing, swimming, water polo, scuba diving, etc.
Q: Are there special bathing suits for my prosthesis?
A: Yes! Some of our vendors do make bathing suits with pockets for prostheses. We do not carry bathing suits in stock, but they can be special ordered. We have catalogues in the breast care suite where items not in stock can be viewed and ordered.
Q: I have been getting prostheses and pocketed bras for many years. Can MedCOR order these items for me even though I got them somewhere else in the past?
A: We do our best to fulfill specific requests. We will work with you to determine the exact manufacturers and item codes of the items you wish to order if you are unsure of the details. Then, we will do our research, contact our vendors if necessary, and let you know if we are able to order the items for you. Keep in mind that costs and billing procedures may vary among different suppliers.
Q: I have an appointment for my first fitting. What can I expect?
A: When you arrive, we will bring you into our breast care suite. You can sit down and relax for a discussion with your fitter about why you are there. You might talk about the type of surgery you had, your lifestyle and activities, and your style preferences to help decide what breast form is best for you. You will be measured by our certified fitter. We will then assist you in trying on breast forms and bras in your size to help you find the perfect fit. We carry a wide selection of different breast forms and bras in many materials, styles, and colors. Education will be provided around how to use and care for your new items. If it is your first fitting your appointment will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. You will be given the contact information of your fitter so that you can reach out by phone or email to ask questions, share concerns, and communicate about refills and other needs moving forward.
Q: My oncologist mentioned something about lymphedema. What is lymphedema?
A: Lymphedema is a painful swelling that happens when your body's lymphatic fluid is unable to circulate properly and results in accumulation of fluid in your soft tissues instead. It usually occurs in an arm or leg, but it can happen anywhere in the body. If you have had lymph nodes removed during breast surgery, this can result in issues related to lymphedema on the affected side. Often, doctors will prescribe compression garments post-surgery for the affected arm and hand even before swelling is observed to prevent these issues from arising later down the line. Sometimes it takes years for lymphedema to flare up because of an injury or overexertion on the side where the lymph nodes were removed. Having well-fitting compression at home for these scenarios is key for long-term health.
Q: How do I keep lymphedema in check?
A: Talk to your doctor about seeing a lymphedema specialist and/or physical therapist if you have not already. Treat the symptoms as soon as possible. Along with swelling of the affected limb, the most common problems are pain, hardening of the skin, and loss of mobility. If left untreated it can get worse and may cause permanent damage. Exercise can help. At MedCOR we are always talking about how "movement is medicine." Manual lymph drainage (MLD) massage is a method of treatment. This massage helps move the fluid out from where it is settled. Treatment may involve wrapping affected limbs in bandages that are padded with foam or gauze. Compression garments are commonly prescribed with a diagnosis of lymphedema. These garments can help drain the lymph fluid. Often, it is a good to get compression even before swelling is observed because you will want to have it ready to use in the case that swelling does appear. It is important to wear compression when flying, riding in a car for an extended period or performing any repetitive movements with the affected limb.
Scratches, cuts, and insect bites can cause flare ups in lymphedema. Clean the affected area and apply an antibiotic ointment. If you notice redness or swelling, contact your doctor immediately and put on compression garments if you have them at home. If getting a manicure bring your own supplies and ask them not to cut your cuticles. Avoid carrying heavy luggage, packages, or shoulder bags. This puts stress on the affected limb and may cause additional pain. Always feel confident about asking your doctors and therapists questions you have about lymphedema. Mastectomy and compression fitters at MedCOR provide evaluations, measurements, fittings, and education on off-the-shelf and custom-made compression garments.
Scratches, cuts, and insect bites can cause flare ups in lymphedema. Clean the affected area and apply an antibiotic ointment. If you notice redness or swelling, contact your doctor immediately and put on compression garments if you have them at home. If getting a manicure bring your own supplies and ask them not to cut your cuticles. Avoid carrying heavy luggage, packages, or shoulder bags. This puts stress on the affected limb and may cause additional pain. Always feel confident about asking your doctors and therapists questions you have about lymphedema. Mastectomy and compression fitters at MedCOR provide evaluations, measurements, fittings, and education on off-the-shelf and custom-made compression garments.
Q: What else does MedCOR have for breast care patients?
A: MedCOR is a durable medical equipment shop with a wide variety of commonly prescribed items in the categories of non-narcotic pain solutions, bracing and supports, mobility aids, and compression garments. There is also a boutique section at MedCOR, which has a selection of headwraps and hats, cozy socks, decorative items, lotions, jewelry, and more. Gift cards are available if you are looking to give something special to a friend or family member.
Pain
Q: What type of pain management products do you carry?
A: We offer a variety of non-narcotic pain management options, like cold therapy cream, E-Stim units like TENS and Cervical Traction devices and a variety of off the shelf bracing options.
Q: What is TENS?
A: A TENS unit is a portable electrical stimulation device that uses electrical ​impulses to interrupt nerve-to-brain signals and increase production of natural endorphins. Adhesive patches are placed on the skin surrounding the pain site. These electrodes are connected to the TENS unit by leadwires. The TENS unit allows you to control the type, intensity and duration of electrical signals used to control your pain.
Q: Are TENS electrodes reusable?
A: Yes, they can be reused for about a month. We offer a TENS supply program to ship replacements to you.
Q: How long will my electrodes last for my TENs unit?
A: About a month with regular use and proper care.
Q: Are TENS units safe to use at home?
A: Some Tens units are designated for use in a hospital or healthcare facility. What we provide is safe to use at home. Tens therapy subdues hyperalgesia (abnormally increased sensitivity to pain). The pain may be located anywhere on the body.
Q: Can you overuse a Tens/Estim Unit?
A: Using a TENS unit as prescribed offers safe and effective relief from many types of pain. Overusing TENS may cause your body to accommodate or get used to the sensation which can thereby decrease its effectiveness. If you feel like your TENS unit is not providing sufficient pain relief please call us at 207.222.2828.
Customer Service
Q: What is your return policy?
A: We have a strict 7-day return policy for most items. Call us at 207-222-2828 to discuss the return policy for your item.
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- 152 US-1, Suite 7, Scarborough, ME 04074 (207) 222-2828