U.S. Durable Medical Equipment Market (2025 - 2030)

Market Size & Trends

The U.S. durable medical equipment market size was valued at USD 66.81 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.61% from 2025 to 2030. The market is majorly driven by the rising product demand due to the growing geriatric population that is susceptible to various chronic diseases. According to America’s Health Rankings 2023 annual report, approximately 43% of the U.S. population, totaling 133 million people, was suffering from one or more chronic illnesses in 2022. Moreover, in the same year, more than 29 million adults were reported to be suffering from three or more chronic conditions. These chronic conditions, including arthritis, asthma, chronic kidney disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, cancer, depression, and diabetes, collectively contribute to the rising need for hospitalization.

The COVID-19 pandemic has initially disrupted the industry due to the lack of accessibility of the products to customers. The pandemic has affected the operations and financial condition of various market players. The DME suppliers have encountered interruptions in the supply chain, such as significant delays and order cancellations, as a result of public health and economic emergencies related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, rising geriatric population is a significant factor propelling the growth of the U.S. DME industry. As the world's population ages, there is a subsequent increase in the demand for healthcare services and infrastructure to address the unique & evolving healthcare needs of older adults. According to America's Health Rankings 2022 data, nearly 58 million adults aged 65 and above presently reside in the U.S., constituting around 17.3% of the nation's population. Projections indicate that by 2040, this proportion is anticipated to grow to 22%. As the last of the baby boomer generation reaches older adulthood in 2030, estimations suggest that over 73.1 million older adults will be living in the U.S. The geriatric population is more prone to chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, and orthopedic issues. Durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, canes, and crutches play a vital role in facilitating the safe and efficient movement of elderly patients within facilities, supporting their treatment and care. Thus, due to the increasing geriatric population, the demand for durable medical equipment is expected to grow in the near future.

Furthermore, the geriatric population often requires long-term care and assistance, leading to an increased demand for durable medical equipment, especially those designed for long-term care use. This equipment has become integral in different settings such as home care, and hospitals, including acute and chronic hospitals in different regions & states. Therefore, the growing geriatric population serves as a key factor fueling the growth of the U.S. durable medical equipment market, necessitating the development and adoption of innovative & specialized equipment to meet the end use requirements of an aging demographic.

Industry Dynamics

The market growth stage is moderate at an accelerating pace. The market is characterized by a moderate-to-high degree of growth. Key drivers include a combination of technological advancements, aging demographics, and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. The market is characterized by a diverse range of products, including mobility aids, respiratory equipment, and patient monitoring devices. Regulatory frameworks, such as Medicare reimbursement policies, significantly influence market dynamics, shaping the competitive landscape and market entry barriers.

The market showcases a strong trend toward home healthcare solutions, emphasizing patient convenience and cost-effectiveness. Advances in materials and design contribute to durable and user-friendly equipment, while a focus on telehealth integration further propels the market forward. As the healthcare landscape evolves, the industry continues to adapt, offering innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of healthcare providers and patients alike. For instance, in January 2024, Robooter, a mobility device manufacturer specializing in robotic technology for the elderly and disabled, introduced its innovative power wheelchair X40 at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 in Las Vegas. The company expanded its product range with the launch of the E Series in 2023, emphasizing adaptability for both indoor and outdoor use. This strategic move caters to the diverse needs of elders and individuals with disabilities. Robooter's focus on the U.S. market is evident through its active efforts to strengthen partnerships with local collaborators. Participation in CES, alongside esteemed American collaborators, underscores the company's dedication to expanding its presence and advancing accessibility solutions in the U.S. market. The impact of Robooter's technological advancements is poised to contribute significantly to the evolution of mobility solutions within the industry.

The market is marked by a significant degree of innovation, propelled by rapid technological advancements and a heightened adoption of advanced products, especially in home care settings. This innovation surge is fueled by a growing demand for home care services, driving the development and integration of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and remote monitoring within the DME sector. Companies heavily investing in these technological advancements gain a competitive edge, contributing to the market's overall growth and reflecting a dynamic landscape that continually meets evolving healthcare needs through innovation.

Regulations play a pivotal role in shaping the market. Stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly related to reimbursement policies such as those governed by Medicare, significantly influence market dynamics. Compliance with these regulations poses challenges but is crucial for market entry. The regulatory environment fosters a standardized approach, ensuring the safety and efficacy of DME. It also acts as a key determinant in the competitive landscape, affecting product development and market access for companies operating in the U.S. DME sector. Overall, regulations have a profound impact, guiding industry practices and contributing to the market's stability and credibility.

The market is witnessing a notable level of merger and acquisition activities. Companies within the sector are strategically consolidating to enhance their market presence, broaden product portfolios, and achieve economies of scale. M&A transactions are driven by the pursuit of synergies, technological advancements, and the need for strategic partnerships to navigate evolving healthcare landscapes. This trend indicates a dynamic market where businesses are aligning resources to capitalize on growth opportunities and address challenges, ultimately influencing the competitive landscape and shaping the future trajectory of the U.S. DME market.

For instance, in November 2023, Humana Inc., a health and well-being company, partnered with national organizations Rotech Healthcare Inc. and AdaptHealth Corp. to provide DME services. This collaboration is set to commence on July 1 under a value-based structure that aims to enhance health support for Humana Medicare Advantage HMO members in their homes. Each national DME provider will serve specific regions of the country, marking a strategic move in the evolving DME market.

Product substitutes vary depending on the specific equipment category and the intended use. In mobility aids, lightweight manual wheelchairs or powered exoskeletons may substitute traditional motorized wheelchairs. For respiratory equipment, portable oxygen concentrators and wearable CPAP devices are gaining traction as substitutes for bulkier traditional machines due to their convenience and ease of use.

The market is experiencing notable regional expansion as companies strategically broaden their geographic footprint. This trend reflects a proactive approach to tap into diverse healthcare needs across different regions, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and establish a stronger market presence. Regional expansion allows DME providers to adapt their offerings to local requirements and regulations, fostering increased accessibility and enhancing their competitive position in the dynamic U.S. healthcare landscape.

End Use Insights

The hospital segment dominated the market in 2024, driven by a surge in patients with rising chronic diseases in the country. Hospitals, equipped with advanced medical technology and skilled healthcare professionals, are the primary facilities for addressing these disorders. Moreover, the growing number of hospitals is expected to drive the demand for durable medical equipment. For instance, in September 2023, Orlando Health introduced Florida’s first orthopedic hospital to provide physician training, orthopedic care, and rehabilitation space. Thus, the increasing number of hospitals is expected to boost the demand for durable medical equipment, including mattresses, bedding devices, and patient positioning devices, thus helping drive segment growth in the coming years.

Home healthcare is expected to witness the highest growth rate over the forecast period due to the cost-saving approach for the patient to get remote healthcare services. The rising preference for home-based care aligns with a broader trend in the healthcare industry, emphasizing convenience, reduced healthcare costs, and the comfort of receiving medical services within the familiar environment of one's home. This surge in demand for durable medical equipment within the home healthcare setting reflects a transformative shift in patient care delivery. As the industry continues to adapt to these changing dynamics, the market stands ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future landscape of patient-centric healthcare.

Product Insights

The monitoring and therapeutic devices segment held the largest revenue share of over 91.40% in 2024 due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases requiring long-term care. In addition, increasing patient preference for at-home medical treatment or remote medical services over an in-patient setting is contributing to the segment growth. In monitoring and therapeutic devices, neuromonitoring techniques are expected to witness growth over the forecast period as they are becoming a part of standard medical practices and are routinely used during many surgical procedures. According to the data published by the CDC in May 2024, about 38 million individuals in the U.S. have diabetes, and approximately 98 million American adults are prediabetic. Moreover, as per the data published by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute in October 2023, COPD affects around 16 million adults in the U.S. Thus, the growing patient population suffering from chronic diseases across the U.S. is anticipated to support the segment growth in the coming years.

The personal mobility devices segment is anticipated to register the fastest growth rate during the forecast period. The growing geriatric population and rising chronic illnesses are expected to create more need and demand for mobility products over the forecast period as these factors generally reduce the ability to move and perform physical tasks to maintain independent functioning. Moreover, aged people are more prone to falls, which can cause fatal or non-fatal injuries.

Key U.S. Durable Medical Equipment Company Insights

Key companies in the U.S. DME market are proactively driving industry evolution through strategic initiatives like mergers & acquisitions, regional expansion, and innovative product development. With a focus on capturing a substantial market share, these players introduce cutting-edge technologies and diversified products. The market landscape is characterized by a mix of major players, local distributors, and suppliers. The key emphasis is on providing cost-efficient products with remote usability. Notably, trends such as strategic home healthcare solutions, artificial intelligence integration, and expanded telehealth capabilities are pivotal, addressing evolving healthcare needs and propelling overall market growth. This dynamic landscape sets new industry standards, fosters healthy competition, and enhances the overall quality of products and services in the industry.

Recent Developments

• In August 2024, Medline successfully completed the acquisition of the surgical solutions business from Ecolab Inc. This acquisition strengthens Medline's position in the surgical products sector, expanding its portfolio of offerings to healthcare providers.

• In June 2024, Abbott received U.S. FDA clearance for two new over-the-counter CGM systems. These advanced CGM systems are designed to offer individuals greater accessibility and convenience in managing their glucose levels without requiring a prescription.

• In June 2024, Boston Scientific Corporation announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Silk Road Medical, Inc. This medical device company has developed a pioneering platform for preventing stroke in patients with carotid artery disease through a minimally invasive procedure known as Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR).

• In March 2024, Sunrise Medical introduced the QUICKIE Q50 R Carbon, the lightest folding power wheelchair in the QUICKIE lineup, weighing just 32 lbs. This compact and easily transportable wheelchair is designed for effortless storage and maneuverability, offering an ideal solution for individuals who wish to stay active & independent without the hassle of a bulky and heavy mobility device.

• In January 2024, Novo Nordisk entered research collaborations with Omega Therapeutics and Cellarity to explore novel treatment approaches for cardiometabolic diseases.

U.S. Durable Medical Equipment Market