How Durable Medical Equipment Delays Drive Up Claim Costs — And How to Stop It

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) plays a critical role in helping injured workers recover and return to work. But when there are delays in securing necessary items — braces, crutches, wheelchairs, or other aids — recovery stalls. According to Sedgwick’s 2022 Annual Claims Report, DME delays contribute to 15% longer disability durations, adding significant cost to indemnity and medical payouts.

The problem is often compounded by a maze of approvals, vendor backlogs, and communication breakdowns. This leaves injured employees waiting, frustrated, and unable to progress through their care plan.

JAG Source solves this through end-to-end DME coordination:

• We handle approvals, sourcing, and delivery, ensuring no step falls through the cracks.

• Our network of trusted vendors allows us to match need to availability quickly.

• We provide real-time updates, so adjusters and claimants always know when equipment is on the way.

  
  

The result:

• Recovery stays on track, helping control costs.

• Claimants feel supported, reducing dissatisfaction and litigation risk.

• Adjusters spend less time managing vendors and more time adding value.

DME shouldn’t slow down claims — with the right partner, it becomes a recovery accelerator.

Reference: Sedgwick, 2022 Annual Claims Report.