Medical Equipment Rentals in Russia
For expatriates living in Russia, accessing medical equipment such as wheelchairs, crutches, and other mobility aids can be essential for managing health conditions, recovering from surgery, or accommodating temporary injuries. Russia offers a variety of options for renting medical equipment, especially in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, where private healthcare facilities and specialized suppliers cater to both residents and expatriates. This guide will help you navigate the options available for renting medical equipment in Russia, including where to find rental services and what to expect.
Why Rent Medical Equipment in Russia?
Renting medical equipment is a practical and cost-effective option for expatriates who need temporary mobility aids or medical devices without having to purchase them. Here are some common reasons why renting medical equipment might be necessary:
- Short-Term Needs: After surgery, injury, or illness, you may only need medical equipment like crutches or a wheelchair for a few weeks or months.
- Rehabilitation: Mobility aids can play an important role in physical therapy and recovery. Renting equipment allows you to access what you need without long-term commitment.
- Traveling or Relocating: When moving to Russia, especially on a temporary visa, renting medical equipment can be more convenient than shipping personal medical devices.
- Cost Efficiency: Purchasing certain types of medical equipment can be expensive. Renting allows you to save money and only pay for the equipment as long as you need it.
Types of Medical Equipment Available for Rent
In Russia, various types of medical equipment are available for rent, from basic mobility aids to specialized devices for more serious medical conditions. Here’s an overview of the most commonly rented items:
1. Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are one of the most commonly rented items, offering vital support for individuals with mobility issues. Options available for rent include:
- Manual Wheelchairs: These are ideal for individuals who need occasional assistance but can still use their arms to propel themselves. Manual wheelchairs are typically lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Electric Wheelchairs: For those who need continuous support or have difficulty using a manual wheelchair, electric wheelchairs provide motorized assistance. They are often bulkier but provide greater comfort for long-term use.
- Transport Wheelchairs: Lightweight and easy to transport, these are typically pushed by another person. They’re ideal for short-term use or for patients who need mobility assistance during recovery.
2. Crutches and Walking Aids
Crutches, canes, and walkers are essential for individuals recovering from surgery or injury. These devices help with balance and mobility, reducing the strain on injured limbs. Options for rent include:
- Standard Crutches: These are typically used for lower leg injuries or surgery. They are adjustable to suit different heights and are usually made of wood or aluminum.
- Forearm Crutches (Canadian Crutches): These provide more support than standard crutches and are often preferred for longer-term use or when more weight-bearing is required.
- Walkers and Rollators: These devices provide additional stability for individuals who need more support than a cane but do not require a wheelchair. Rollators come with wheels for easy maneuverability, while traditional walkers may require the user to lift them.
3. Hospital Beds and Mattresses
Renting a hospital bed or specialized mattress can be a good solution for individuals who need to recover at home after surgery or during prolonged illness. These beds are adjustable for comfort, allowing for easier positioning for activities like eating, reading, or resting.
- Adjustable Hospital Beds: These beds allow the head and foot sections to be raised, which can help reduce pressure on the body and make recovery more comfortable.
- Pressure Relief Mattresses: Available for patients who are bedridden or recovering from surgery, these mattresses help prevent pressure sores and improve circulation.
4. Oxygen Equipment and Respiratory Devices
For individuals with respiratory issues or conditions such as asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), rental equipment can help manage breathing difficulties.
- Oxygen Concentrators: These devices provide a continuous supply of oxygen, which can be necessary for individuals with chronic respiratory issues.
- Nebulizers: Used for delivering medication directly to the lungs, nebulizers are commonly used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions.
5. Patient Lifts and Hoists
Patient lifts are specialized devices that help caregivers move individuals with limited mobility. These are particularly useful for people recovering from surgery or those with significant physical disabilities.
- Portable Patient Lifts: These lifts help caregivers safely move patients from a bed to a chair, or from a wheelchair to a bed, with minimal risk of injury to both the patient and caregiver.
- Slings and Hoists: Some rental companies offer slings and hoists, which can be used in combination with patient lifts to assist with lifting and repositioning patients.
Where to Rent Medical Equipment in Russia
Several medical equipment rental companies and healthcare providers offer a variety of mobility aids and other devices across Russia. Here’s where you can rent medical equipment:
1. Large Pharmacy Chains with Rental Services
Some well-established pharmacy chains in Russia, particularly in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, offer medical equipment for rent. These pharmacies often provide delivery and setup services to your home, making it easier for expatriates to access mobility aids and other devices.
- Pharmacy Chain 36.6
- Zdravzona
- Apteka.ru
These pharmacies may rent out equipment like wheelchairs, crutches, and walkers, and they often stock international medical devices that expatriates may be familiar with.
2. Specialized Medical Equipment Rental Companies
There are numerous companies in Russia dedicated to renting medical equipment. These companies typically offer a broad range of devices, including wheelchairs, hospital beds, and respiratory devices. They may also provide delivery services and offer flexible rental periods.
- MediTech is a company offering a wide range of medical devices for rent, including mobility aids, oxygen equipment, and home healthcare products.
- Medina is another popular medical equipment rental service with a large selection of wheelchairs, crutches, and other healthcare products available for short- and long-term rentals.
3. Private Healthcare Clinics
Some private hospitals and clinics also offer rental services for medical equipment. These facilities may offer more personalized care for individuals recovering from surgery or requiring extended mobility assistance.
- European Medical Center (EMC) in Moscow is one such example where patients can rent medical equipment, including mobility devices, from the hospital directly.
4. Online Medical Equipment Rentals
Several online platforms cater to individuals looking to rent medical equipment in Russia. These platforms typically have a wide range of products available for short-term or long-term rental, and they often offer delivery services.
- Apteka24 is an online pharmacy that offers medical equipment rental services, including mobility aids and orthopedic devices.
- RentAmed is another online service that rents medical equipment, providing an easy-to-use website and fast delivery options.
Renting Medical Equipment: Costs and Rental Terms
The cost of renting medical equipment in Russia varies depending on the type of equipment and the duration of the rental. Basic items like crutches or walkers are typically less expensive than more advanced equipment like electric wheelchairs or hospital beds.
- Wheelchairs: Manual wheelchairs can range from 500 to 1,500 rubles per week, while electric wheelchairs may cost between 3,000 and 6,000 rubles per week, depending on the model.
- Crutches: The rental price for standard crutches is generally around 200-500 rubles per week.
- Hospital Beds: Renting a hospital bed can cost anywhere from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles per week, depending on the type and features (adjustable, with or without accessories).
- Oxygen Concentrators: These can cost around 1,000 to 3,000 rubles per week.
Most rental companies offer flexible rental periods, ranging from daily to monthly rates, and discounts may be available for longer rental periods. Delivery and setup services are typically included, but you should confirm this with the provider in advance.
How to Rent Medical Equipment in Russia
- Identify Your Needs: Assess which medical equipment you require and determine the duration of the rental. This will help narrow down the best rental services for your needs.
- Contact Providers: Reach out to medical equipment rental companies, pharmacies, or clinics to inquire about availability, pricing, and delivery services.
- Review Terms and Conditions: Before confirming the rental, carefully review the terms and conditions, including rental period, delivery options, payment terms, and any potential deposit requirements.
- Check for Insurance: If you have health insurance, check whether it covers the cost of medical equipment rental. Some private insurance policies may provide coverage for mobility aids and other medical devices.
- Ensure Proper Setup and Support: For larger equipment, such as hospital beds or oxygen concentrators, ask if setup and maintenance are included. Many rental companies provide assistance with this.
Conclusion: Renting Medical Equipment in Russia
For expatriates in Russia, renting medical equipment like wheelchairs, crutches, and hospital beds is a convenient option for short-term needs or during recovery. With various rental services available in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, expatriates can access high-quality mobility aids and medical devices without the need for long-term commitment. By understanding the rental process, costs, and available services, expatriates can ensure they have the right equipment to support their health and recovery during their time in Russia.
