Finding the Right Fit: Why Choosing the Right Incontinence Product Matters

Finding the Right Fit: Why Choosing the Right Incontinence Product Matters

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

Why Does Fit Matter With Incontinence Products?

Wearing an incontinence product should support your comfort, confidence, and daily life, not add stress or uncertainty.

Whether you are new to managing incontinence or have been using products for years, the right fit can make a meaningful difference. A well fitting product can help reduce leaks, support skin health, and allow you to move through your day with greater ease and dignity.

According to the National Association for Continence (NAFC), up to 80% of adults managing incontinence may be using the wrong product, often leading to discomfort, leaks, and unnecessary expense.

At Home Care Delivered (HCD), our experienced support team helps individuals navigate these challenges every day. We take the time to understand your needs and help identify high quality incontinence products that fit your body, lifestyle, and coverage benefits.

Understanding Different Types of Incontinence

Every person’s experience with incontinence is different, and understanding the type of incontinence you manage is an important first step in finding products that truly support your daily needs.

Today’s high quality incontinence products are far from the bulky options many people remember. Modern designs are thinner, softer, and more discreet, with breathable materials that help support skin comfort and odor control.

Stress Incontinence

  • What it looks like: Light leaks during activities like laughing, sneezing, coughing, or exercising.
  • Product considerations: Discreet options that fit close to the body for everyday movement and comfort.
  • Product Examples: Thin pads or liners designed for light protection.

Urge Incontinence

  • What it looks like: A sudden, strong urge to use the restroom with little warning.
  • Product considerations: Products with higher absorbency and fast moisture lock in to support longer wear and confidence.
  • Product examples: Pull on style underwear or protective briefs designed for moderate to heavy leakage.

Overflow Incontinence

  • What it looks like: Frequent dribbling caused by incomplete bladder emptying.
    Product considerations: Consistent protection that supports steady leakage throughout the day.
  • Product examples: All day protective underwear or briefs with reliable absorbency.

Functional Incontinence

  • What it looks like: Leaks related to physical or cognitive challenges that make reaching the restroom difficult.
  • Product considerations: Easy to use designs with a secure fit that support independence or caregiver assistance.
  • Product examples: Briefs with adjustable closures, along with bed or chair protection for added support.

HCD’s product experts helps individuals and caregivers understand how these differences connect to product features like absorbency levels, product styles, and fit options. Tools like HCD’s Bladder Diary can also help track habits and patterns, offering helpful insights to share with a healthcare provider when needed. This education first approach helps ensure product choices feel informed, supportive, and personalized.

You or a loved one dealing with incontinence?

Let us help you get the supplies you need to feel supported, comfortable, and confident.
If you’re managing bladder or bowel incontinence — from light to heavy needs — our team at HCD will work with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to deliver a personalized product solution that fits your specific situation.

Call 866-938-3906 or share your information through our online enrollment form to get started.

Your Insurance Card Explained: Medicare vs Medicaid Made Simple

Your Insurance Card Explained: Medicare vs Medicaid Made Simple

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

What Does Your Insurance Card Tell You?

Navigating insurance coverage can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re managing your health and need reliable access to medical supplies.

For millions of Americans, Medicare and Medicaid offer essential access to health-related products and services. At Home Care Delivered, we’ve helped customers navigate insurance processes since 1996, handling paperwork and insurance coordination so you don’t have to worry about it.

Whether you have Medicare, Medicaid, or another plan, your insurance card holds key information that helps doctors and companies like HCD verify your coverage.

This guide will help you:

  • Understand the type of coverage you have
  • Locate important plan details
  • Know who to contact with questions

What Your Original Medicare Card Tells You

If you have Medicare, you may have what's called Original Medicare, a government-managed health insurance program that includes Part A and Part B coverage.

You may also hear Original Medicare referred to as Traditional Medicare, or even Medicare Part A and Part B.

Your Medicare card is typically red, white, and blue, and includes:

  1. Your name
  2. Medicare Number
  3. Coverage details (Hospital – Part A, Medical – Part B)
  4. Coverage Start Date

Let’s take a closer look at what each part of Original Medicare covers.

  • Part A (Hospital Insurance)
    Typically includes coverage for hospital stays, skilled nursing support, hospice services, and some in-home health-related support.
  • Part B (Medical Insurance)
    Typically includes coverage for outpatient services like doctor visits, lab tests, medical equipment, screenings, and preventive services.

These two parts work together to support your overall health coverage. Coverage details can vary, so it’s helpful to contact the Member Services number listed on the back of your card for questions about your specific plan.

Understanding Medicare Advantage Cards

Medicare Advantage Plans (also called Part C) are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans combine your Part A and Part B coverage into one plan and may include extra benefits like prescription drugs, dental, vision, or hearing support.

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your insurance card will look different from the Original Medicare card. It will come from your private insurance provider and may include:

  • The name of your plan (e.g., Humana, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare)
  • Your member ID and group number
  • Plan details and issue date
  • Primary care provider (PCP) information, if listed
  • Labels like “Medicare Advantage,” “Part C,” or “MA”

Coverage can vary depending on your plan, and some services may require prior approval. To learn more about your specific benefits, you can call the Member Services number listed on the back of your card.

What’s On Your Medicaid Card

Medicaid is a government-supported health insurance program that helps individuals with limited income access essential health-related services.

While Medicaid is guided by federal standards, each state runs its own program—so coverage, enrollment, and even the look of your card may vary. No matter where you live, your Medicaid card will include important details like:

  • Your Name
  • Member ID
  • Issuer ID
  • Date the card was issued

Medicaid coverage can vary by state, but all programs include key services such as:

  • Hospital care
  • Doctor visits and checkups
  • Lab tests and X-rays
  • Family planning services

Many states also offer additional benefits, which may include:

  • Medical supplies (like the products Home Care Delivered provides)
  • Prescription medications
  • Dental services
  • Physical therapy

To learn more about your specific coverage, call the Member Services number listed on the back of your Medicaid card.

Home Care Delivered Helps You Get the Supplies You Need

Coverage for medical supplies can vary depending on your Medicare or Medicaid plan. Understanding your plan’s requirements is key to accessing the products you need.

When you order supplies through Home Care Delivered, we help simplify the process:

  • We check your insurance to see if you qualify
  • We conduct a clinically focused intake survey to understand your condition and needs
  • We coordinate with your doctor’s office to gather any required paperwork
  • We build a customized product solution based on your coverage
  • We arrange discreet delivery directly to your door

Our team is here to support you every step of the way — so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get the supplies you need to live confidently.

Living with a chronic condition that requires medical supplies?

Let us help you get the products you need — delivered discreetly to your door.

Many people manage ongoing health conditions, and the right medical supplies can make all the difference. The team at HCD works with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to support a wide range of needs, including urological, ostomy, diabetes, and wound care. We’ll help ensure you get the supplies you need to manage your condition with confidence.

Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”

Prediabetes: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Prediabetes: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and How to Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

Understanding Prediabetes and Your Risk for Type 2 Diabetes

Nearly 115 million U.S. adults have prediabetes—and as many as 8 in 10 don’t know it, according to the CDC.

Prediabetes occurs when your blood sugar (glucose) levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. While it may sound less serious, it can be an important early warning and an opportunity to take action.

Left untreated, prediabetes can increase your risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke

The good news? With the right lifestyle changes, many people can delay — or even prevent — type 2 diabetes.

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes happens when your body has trouble using insulin effectively, which can lead to higher-than-normal blood sugar levels over time.

Understanding your numbers and tracking changes can help you feel more informed and prepared to take next steps with your provider.

Blood Sugar Levels Explained

  • Normal fasting blood glucose: 70–99 mg/dL
  • Prediabetes: 100–125 mg/dL
  • Diabetes: 126 mg/dL or higher

Many providers also use the A1C test, which reflects your average blood sugar over 2–3 months:

  • Normal: Below 5.7%
  • Prediabetes: 5.7%–6.4%
  • Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

Not familiar with mg/dL? You’re not alone — A1C is often an easier way to understand long-term blood sugar trends.

Who Is at Risk for Prediabetes?

Anyone can develop prediabetes, but certain factors increase your risk. According to the NIH and CDC, you may be more likely to develop prediabetes if you:

  • Are overweight or have obesity
  • Are 45 or older
  • Have a family history of diabetes
  • Had gestational diabetes during pregnancy
  • Eat a diet high in processed foods, red meat, or sugary drinks
  • Are physically inactive
  • Have high blood pressure or high triglycerides
  • Have low HDL (“good”) cholesterol
  • Have obstructive sleep apnea
  • Use or are exposed to tobacco
  • Are Black, Hispanic, American Indian, or Asian American

At Home Care Delivered, we understand that managing your health can feel overwhelming, especially when changes happen gradually and without clear symptoms. That’s why we focus on helping individuals access the supplies and support they need to feel confident and in control of their health journey.

Are There Warning Signs?

Prediabetes often has no noticeable symptoms, which is why testing is so important.

However, some people may develop:

  • Darkened skin in areas like the neck, underarms, or groin (a condition called acanthosis nigricans)

If prediabetes progresses to diabetes, symptoms may include:

  • Increased thirst or hunger
  • Frequent urination
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
  • Unintentional weight loss

When Should You Get Tested?

Because symptoms are often silent, screening is key. Your healthcare provider may recommend testing based on your:

  • Age
  • Risk factors
  • Family history
  • Overall health
  • Common Tests for Prediabetes include:
  • Fasting blood glucose test
  • A1C test
  • Glucose tolerance test
  • Random plasma glucose test

If you’re concerned about your blood sugar, don’t hesitate to ask your provider about testing. Early detection makes a big difference.

Can Prediabetes Be Reversed?

In many cases, yes.

Prediabetes doesn’t have to progress to diabetes. With consistent lifestyle changes, many people are able to bring their blood sugar levels back into a normal range.

How to Prevent Prediabetes from Becoming Diabetes

If you’ve been told you have prediabetes, taking small, consistent steps can support your long-term health. It’s always a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider about what approach is right for you.

Here are some changes that may help support healthy blood sugar levels over time:

1. Focus on Balanced Eating
Choose foods that help keep blood sugar more stable, such as:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Lean proteins like chicken or fish
  • Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts

Try to limit sugary drinks, highly processed foods, and refined carbohydrates when possible.

Tip: Small changes over time can be easier to maintain.

2. Get Moving

Physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively.

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
  • Walking is a great place to start
  • Build consistency before intensity

3. Lose a Small Amount of Weight

Even modest weight loss can make a big impact.

  • Losing 5–7% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Work with your provider to find a safe, sustainable plan

4. Take Medication if Prescribed

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your provider may recommend medication.

  • Take medications exactly as directed
  • Continue lifestyle changes alongside treatment

5. Monitor Your Blood Sugar

  • Tracking your blood glucose can help you better understand how your daily habits impact your numbers.

Monitoring at home gives you insight into how your diet, activity, and routine affect your numbers. For some individuals, using tools like traditional glucose monitors or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can make it easier to spot patterns and stay informed between provider visits.

Need Extra Support?

If making lifestyle changes feels overwhelming, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to do it on your own.

The CDC and American Diabetes Association offer the National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP). This evidence-based program provides:

  • Structured lifestyle coaching
  • Nutrition and activity guidance
  • Support from others with similar goals

Learn more and take the risk test: https://doihaveprediabetes.org/reverse-prediabetes/

Many programs may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance.

Take Control of Your Health Today

Prediabetes can be a warning, but it can also be a chance to take meaningful steps forward. With the right knowledge, support, and tools, many individuals are able to better understand and manage their blood sugar over time.

At Home Care Delivered, we’re here to help simplify the process. We work with your provider and health plan to help you access high-quality diabetes supplies that fit your lifestyle.

We can help with:

  • Traditional glucose monitors
  • Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
  • Ongoing supply support and reordering

We’ll check your insurance to see if you qualify and work with your health plan to help minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Visit Diabetes CGM - Home Care Delivered to learn more or get started today.

Living with a chronic condition that requires medical supplies?

Let us help you get the products you need — delivered discreetly to your door.

Many people manage ongoing health conditions, and the right medical supplies can make all the difference. The team at HCD works with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to support a wide range of needs, including urological, ostomy, diabetes, and wound care. We’ll help ensure you get the supplies you need to manage your condition with confidence.

Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”

Incontinence and Urology Supplies — What’s the Difference?

Incontinence and Urology Supplies — What’s the Difference?

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

Key Differences Between Incontinence and Urology Supplies

At first glance, incontinence and urological supplies might appear to be quite similar; They both treat urinary conditions and help manage bladder control. But that’s where the similarities end.

There’s actually a big difference between incontinence and urological supplies and understanding the difference is important to successful urinary care and good health.

What’s the Difference?

Incontinence and urological supplies are actually two separate classifications of products. This is because each product serves different purposes. Absorbent Incontinence products, such as bladder control pads and briefs, are made for people who leak urine. Urological supplies, like straight catheters, are for people who have trouble urinating on their own.

Because they are classified differently, insurance coverage may vary on which products are covered as a benefit. For example, some Medicaid plans cover incontinence supplies, while Medicare does not.

Incontinence Supplies

Incontinence supplies are products that help manage the involuntary and unexpected leakage of urine. They usually come in the form of soft, absorbent pads or briefs that are worn underneath clothing. The interior of the products are filled with a special polymer that absorbs liquid and locks it away, which helps to keep skin and clothing dry.

Common incontinence supplies include products such as Bladder Control Pads, Male Guards, Protective Underwear, and Adult Briefs (Adult Diapers). Each type of incontinence product is made to handle a different level of leakage.

Urological Supplies

Urological supplies are products designed for people who have urinary retention and need help removing urine from the body. This could be caused by many things, such as a blockage in the urethra, or an issue with the nervous system that won’t allow the bladder muscles to relax. The supplies themselves consist of smooth, thin tubes (called catheters) that are inserted into the bladder through the urethra, allowing trapped urine to leave the body. Urine travels through the tube and often collects in a drainage bag

Common urological supplies include products such as catheters, drainage bags, and insertion trays. There are many different types of catheters, each one made to accommodate a different medical need.

Condom/External Catheters

Condom catheters are unique among urology supplies, in that they do not manage urinary retention. Instead, they manage incontinence. They also are not inserted into the body through the urethra but are used outside of the body.

There are three basic parts to a condom catheter: the external condom, the tubing, and the drainage bag. The external condom goes over the penis and attaches to the tubing, which is then attached to the leg bag. When leakage occurs, it travels down the tubing and is collected in the drainage bag.

Which Product Is Right for Me?

To find out what product is right for your needs, talk with a doctor and get a diagnosis. Your doctor can help you determine what’s causing your leakage and put together a plan to treat it.

Once you’ve spoken to a doctor, sign up online or speak to us about getting supplies. We’ll find you the perfect product for your needs. Your insurance could even cover the cost.

variety of medical supply categories diabetes incontinence ostomy wound

Living with a chronic condition that requires medical supplies?

Let us help you get the products you need — delivered discreetly to your door.

Many people manage ongoing health conditions, and the right medical supplies can make all the difference. The team at HCD works with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to support a wide range of needs, including urological, ostomy, diabetes, and wound care. We’ll help ensure you get the supplies you need to manage your condition with confidence.

Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”

What Is Insurance Preauthorization?

What Is Insurance Preauthorization?

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

What Is Insurance Preauthorization and Why Is It Required?

If you’ve received medical care and have insurance, you’ve probably heard of insurance preauthorization. It can be a necessary step in getting the supplies or treatment you need to be covered by your insurance plan. But it can also be confusing. What is insurance preauthorization and how does it affect people who need medical supplies? Get the answers to these questions and more below.

What is Preauthorization?

Preauthorization, sometimes call pre-certification, predetermination, or prior approval, is a requirement from an insurance plan to authorize a healthcare service or product before it is provided. That means the insurance plan approves medical supplies before treatment or supplies are provided.

Why do I need preauthorization?

Preauthorization allows insurance plans to review supplies or services to help make sure you are receiving the right products for your needs. During preauthorization, reviewers confirm that the requested supplies are needed to treat your specific medical condition and that you’re receiving the correct quantity. This is also important for you, since you will have a better idea of what is covered or not covered, which could potentially leave you with the responsibility of covering the cost.

When do I need preauthorization?

Preauthorization requirements are different for every insurance plan and condition. Whether or not you need preauthorization to receive supplies can depend on a few factors, including:

  • The insurance plan type
  • Coverage requirements
  • Type of supplies

If you use Home Care Delivered to receive your medical supplies, you don’t have to worry about finding out if preauthorization is needed. We keep track of each insurance plan’s specific requirements, so you don’t have to. If you need preauthorization for your supplies, we’ll always let you know and also retrieve it for you.

How do I get a preauthorization?

If you’re an HCD customer, you don’t have to! We take care of the paperwork on your behalf, including preauthorizations. If you need a preauthorization from your insurance plan, we’ll collect all the necessary paperwork from your doctor and send it to your insurance plan for approval. After we receive the completed preauthorization, we’ll ship your supplies.

Taking care of preauthorizations is just one of the many things HCD does to take the stress out of receiving medical supplies. If you’d like to sign up for supply deliveries, enter your phone number in the bottom left of this screen and we’ll give you a call. When you do, you’ll experience for yourself why we’re the highest-rated medical supplier.

variety of medical supply categories diabetes incontinence ostomy wound

Living with a chronic condition that requires medical supplies?

Let us help you get the products you need — delivered discreetly to your door.

Many people manage ongoing health conditions, and the right medical supplies can make all the difference. The team at HCD works with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to support a wide range of needs, including urological, ostomy, diabetes, and wound care. We’ll help ensure you get the supplies you need to manage your condition with confidence.

Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”

How To Get Incontinence Supplies By Mail

How To Get Incontinence Supplies By Mail

Blog

Tag:

Published:

Summary

Getting Incontinence Supplies Delivered

More people than ever are choosing to have their insurance-covered incontinence supplies delivered directly to their homes. Unlike retail purchases, medical supply delivery allows you to access products covered by your insurance plan — often with little to no out-of-pocket cost. That means less time spent shopping, fewer trips to the store, and supplies delivered right to your door. Getting started is quick and simple. Continue reading to learn how we can help you place your first order in just a few easy steps.

Signing Up

Different kinds of incontinence supplies are covered through most Medicaid plans and certain private insurance plans when they are considered medically necessary. If you haven’t talked to your doctor about incontinence, it’s important to schedule a visit so they can document your needs and help determine the right products for you.

Once your medical need is established, you can speak with our team to start the process to get incontinence supplies based on your individual requirements. Or you can reach out to us first, and we will start the process of working with you, your insurance plan, and your physician to see if you qualify for incontinence supplies.

If you are already getting supplies through another supplier and want to work with someone different, we can speak to you to get your new order set up with us, if we are networked with your plan. Reordering each month is fast and convenient.

megaphone

Are you a Medicaid member? You can start the process to see if you qualify online.

How to Get Supplies

At Home Care Delivered, you can enroll online or over the phone (866-938-3906) to receive incontinence supplies delivered to your home. Prefer that we call you? Simply enter your phone number on our contact us form and select the button that you are an individual looking to see if you are a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.

Our team will work directly with your doctor and insurance provider to collect the necessary paperwork, so you don’t have to. We’ll also check in routinely to ensure your supplies continue to meet your needs.

Why People Love Home Care Delivered

Our compassionate customer service team, our product knowledge, our industry expertise, have helped HCD earn exceptional customer satisfaction, with 91% or higher customer satisfaction year after year.

Reliability Founded in 1996, we are experts in the Home Medical Equipment (HME) industry, with highly trained customer service team members who know the products well. And, we are a leader in compliant process for your paperwork, minimizing the risk of delays with your medical supply order.

  • Personalized Product Solution
    Our team works closely with you to understand your specific condition and needs. We work directly with your insurance company and with your physician to provide a personalized product plan that meets your unique needs – with products in the right amount and right fit.
  • Convenience
    We handle the paperwork, contact your doctor, and provide easy digital tools to reorder each month, including text-to-reorder.
  • Fast and Reliable Delivery
    Once we receive all the paperwork and have your approval to ship, your supplies are shipped and typically arrive within two business days.
  • Secure Data Process/HIPAA Compliance
    We collect only the information required to process your order, and your data is always secure and confidential.
  • Nationwide Service
    We work with health plans across the United States, including Medicaid, Managed Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Commercial plans, with the ability to deliver supplies to all 50 states.
graphic illustrating online way to see if you qualify graphic of shipping truck over an arrow pointing to delivered HCD supply box

You or a loved one dealing with incontinence?

Let us help you get the supplies you need to feel supported, comfortable, and confident.
If you’re managing bladder or bowel incontinence — from light to heavy needs — our team at HCD will work with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to deliver a personalized product solution that fits your specific situation.

Call 866-938-3906 or share your information through our online enrollment form to get started.

hcd plugin logo
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.