My sarcastic best friend recently called Medicare’s decision to pay for penis pumps “the real stimulus package”. As a healthcare professional, I was more than a bit surprised. After looking into it, however, I have to admit there’s a method to the madness.
In some cases, penis pumps are a medically-necessary and cost-effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. It’s a non-surgical alternative to expensive penis implants. Many men with health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and dildos prostate cancer don’t have insurance coverage to pay for penis implants. Penis pumps are much more cost-effective and covered by Medicare.
There are some caveats, though. The penis pump must be prescribed by a licensed physician, and only after the patient has investigated alternative treatments, such as medications, and has been determined to not be a surgical candidate. The pumps must also be used in conjunction with a vacuum constriction device. That means the patient needs to wear an appropriate protective device while using the penis pump.
The penis pump works by creating a vacuum around the penis, thereby encouraging blood flow, leading to an erection. This is a very different process than the injection of medicines directly into the penis, which can cause the penis to become hard, but can be painful. So, the penis pump is a gentler method.
The other interesting thing about the Medicare-covered penis pump is that it doesn’t just treat erectile dysfunction; it can also reduce the risk of long-term damage to the penis. Men who suffer from ED for vibrators long periods of time can find themselves with reduced sensation and eventually facing issues like Peyronie’s Disease, or an anatomical curve in the erection. With a penis pump, those men can get back on track with better circulation, sensation and overall shape.
To be clear, not everyone with ED will benefit from a penis pump. But for those who do, Medicare’s coverage can be a life-saver – literally and figuratively.
Going forward, many people are now questioning whether penis pumps can be recommended for other conditions. For instance, some studies suggest that penis pumps can also help those dealing with sexual performance problems, particularly those related to stress and depression. However, since these types of issues are not covered by Medicare, studies are needed to determine whether to recommend penis pumps as an effective treatment option.
At the end of the day, the decision to purchase a penis pump should never be taken lightly. While there are some cases where Medicare will pay for a penis pump, other medical conditions may need to be met for approval. It’s always best to talk to one’s doctor about the risks and benefits before taking the plunge.