CareSource Increases Access to Adaptive Equipment

CareSource, a nationally recognized nonprofit health plan, has named Turnstone a 2022 Heart of Community award recipient and presented a gift of $22,000 in support of their Equipment Loan Program. Turnstone lends gently-used adaptive equipment and other items at no charge to individuals with disabilities.

“CareSource knows how critical medical equipment is to keeping individuals independent and active,” said Steve Smitherman, president of CareSource Indiana. “We are grateful for organizations like Turnstone and their efforts to improve the lives of Hoosiers.”

In 2021, Turnstone loaned more than 450 pieces of equipment at no charge to 260 people with disabilities. Equipment included wheelchairs, toilets, bath benches, crutches, canes, walkers and grab bars.

“Accessing necessary medical and adaptive equipment is critical for the quality of life for people with disabilities, but the expense is often an obstacle,” said Michael Mushett, CEO of Turnstone. “More than 64% of the people we serve live below 200% of the federal poverty level. CareSource’s financial support ensures we can continue offering the Equipment Loan Program for those who need it most.”

According to the Annual Disability Statistics Compendium, people with disabilities in Allen County are 2.7 times more likely to be living in poverty as people without disabilities.

Additional information on the Equipment Rental Program can be found at turnstone.org.