It is now easier to get certain prescriptions and medical supplies through Essentia Health pharmacies. This year, Essentia’s pharmacies were accredited by The Joint Commission to bill Medicare Part B for durable medical equipment. This means patients will now have better access to diabetic supplies, nebulizer solutions and insulin that is used with an insulin pump, as well as certain medications for transplants, oral chemotherapy and supportive care for cancer treatment.

This applies to all of our pharmacies in Minnesota and Wisconsin – with the exception of our newest pharmacy in Deerwood, MN – allowing us to better care for our patients regardless of their location.

To offer this, pharmacies must be accredited by The Joint Commission, which uses an “objective evaluation process to help health care organizations measure, assess and improve performance in order to provide safe and high-quality care for their patients.” Accreditation is awarded after a successful on-site survey conducted by a specially trained Joint Commission team, which assesses compliance with Joint Commission standards.

To learn more about what is covered, please visit Medicare.gov