How to Donate Medical Supplies in the United States

Finding ways to donate medical supplies in the United States can pose a challenge. If you no longer need home medical equipment or other supplies, you may want to share them with others, but do not know where to begin. Fortunately, many organizations will accept used medical equipment. Follow these steps to find an organization that may accept your donation.

Instructions

• 1

  Ask local health professionals. Talk to your doctor, or the office staff at your doctor's office. They may know which local groups recycle or re-purpose medical equipment. They may also have a list of patients who can't afford medical supplies and would benefit from your donation. Local hospitals and social service agencies may provide similar information. Your local Lions Club will accept donations of old eyeglasses.

• 2

  Give back through the Internet. The American College of Surgeons has developed Operation Giving Back to encourage volunteer efforts and medical equipment donations. The Operation Giving Back website maintains a page of links to organizations that accept donations across the United States. Use this page to search for an organization in your state.

• 3

  Know that several organizations coordinate donations of medical equipment from the United States to needy areas throughout the world. The American Medical Resources Foundation supports hospitals in poor areas with donations of medical equipment. The American Medical Association donates used stethoscopes to healthcare providers and medical students throughout the world.

• 4

  Give yourself a break--a tax break. If you donate medical equipment or supplies in the United States, you may claim a deduction. Keep records of everything you donate, and the value of the gifts. Ask for a receipt for any donation worth more than $250. If you receive a thank you letter or confirmation email, keep it as proof of the gift. Tax laws can change, so check the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website for the current rules.