Do you have a surplus of unwanted medical supplies? You can make a difference by donating those supplies to an organization that will take and distribute them where they are most needed and can be put to good use.
Where to Donate Unused Medical Supplies
If you decide that you want to donate medical supplies, you have several options to consider. You can donate to a local organization that is willing to take unused supplies. Many hospitals and home healthcare companies take supplies to give to patients who are unable to afford them on their own.
Local Organizations That Accept Donations
There are many local organizations you can check in with if you'd like to donate medical supplies during a national disaster, epidemic, or pandemic. Keep in mind that during an epidemic or pandemic, donations may be put on hold in order to prevent contamination. You can check in with your local department of public health to see if they are currently accepting medical supplies. If not, you may be able to donate other supplies or food that help out individuals or animals in need that are being negatively impacted. You can also check in with:
- Local clinics in your area
- Contact your local news station to see if they know of a business in need
- Places of worship
- Homeless shelters and safe houses
- Your local fire and police department
- Local restaurants and grocery stores that are open during a pandemic or epidemic
Other local organizations to consider donating to include:
- Salvation Army
- Churches
- Community centers
- Nursing homes
- Daycare centers
- Schools
Always check with the specific organization before you drop off a donation and ask if they are currently accepting medical supplies.
Alliance for Smiles
Alliance for Smiles accepts donations of surplus medical supplies and equipment and distributes them to people who need them the most. They have an online medical supply needs list since their needs are constantly changing. Supplies can be surgical, dental, pediatric, as well as bio-medical in nature. All supplies that are donated must be within the expiration date and unused. To donate supplies, call 415-647-4481 or email info@allianceforsmiles.org.
American Medical Resource Foundation
The American Medical Resource Foundation distributes donated medical equipment and supplies to charitable hospitals and medical clinics. They accept used items that are either functioning or able to be repaired. The Foundation can arrange for pickup of your items if needed. To make a donation email victor@amrf.com.
MedWish International
MedWish accepts health-related products as donations including unused medical supplies and equipment. They do not accept expired supplies or pharmaceutical products as donations. Medical supplies and equipment that are accepted can be anything from ace wraps to burn dressings to crutches. Equipment accepted can be cardiac monitors, exam tables, hoyer lifts and walkers. Check the website for a complete of items being accepted. If you want to donate supplies, call 216-692-1685.
Help The Children
Help The Children works to provide medical services and supplies to impoverished people around the world. They accept donations of medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and antibiotic ointment, as well as unopened packages of many common over-the-counter medications. To make a donation of medication or other supplies, call 323- 980-9870.
Global Links
Global Links is a medical aid organization that accepts donations from medical suppliers, health care workers, and individuals from the community. They accept unused medical supplies, surgical instruments, hospital equipment, walking and injury aids in good condition, and biomedical equipment. To donate, email lwest@globallinks.org.
MedShare
MedShare is a nonprofit organization that collects and redistributes unused medical equipment to communities in need. They accept unused medical equipment and supplies, as well as used biomedical equipment. To donate, fill out the appropriate form on their website which will ask for your contact information as well as a description of the donation.
Types of Medical Supplies to Donate
There are many people who are in possession of surplus medical supplies and don't know what to do with them. Don't throw them away or let them go to waste when there are organizations who can deliver them to areas where they can be used.
Patient Supplies
Some types of medical supplies accepted as donations for patients may include:
- Adult diapers
- Alcohol pads
- Antibiotic ointment
- Bandages
- Braces
- Thermometers
- Thermometer probe covers
- Tongue depressors
- Wound dressing and tape
- Patient gowns
- Newborn supplies
- Needles and syringes
- Feeding tubes
Supplies for Healthcare Workers
Donations accepted for healthcare workers may include:
- Surgical gloves
- Masks
- Medical books and teaching materials
- Surgical gowns
- Scrubs, caps, and surgical shoe covers
All supplies should be in their original packaging in order to be accepted as a donation. Expired supplies will not be accepted. Many organizations also accept medical equipment such as blood pressure cuffs, wheelchairs, shower benches, stethoscopes, and hospital beds.
Receive a Tax Deduction
Your donation of medical supplies can also qualify for tax write-off. When making your donation, be sure to request a receipt from the organization you are donating to. The fair market value of the items donated can be added to your income tax return. Donating medical supplies can truly help patients and healthcare workers, especially during an epidemic, pandemic or disaster.
