5400 Atlantis Ct. Moorpark, CA 93021

BD PureWick Urine Collection System unit with tubing and external catheter wick — blog post cover image for PureWick Cost Without Insurance: What to Expect on rafischer.com

PureWick Cost Without Insurance: What to Expect

If you’re researching the PureWick system and wondering what it costs without insurance, you deserve a straight answer. The system isn’t cheap, and the ongoing supply costs add up. But for most eligible patients, insurance covers it — which changes the financial picture dramatically.

This guide breaks down what you’ll pay out of pocket, where to purchase supplies, and how to check whether your plan covers the cost.

How Much Does PureWick Cost?

The PureWick system has two distinct cost components: the unit itself and the ongoing wick supply.

The PureWick Urine Collection System unit — the low-pressure suction pump and collection canister — is a one-time hardware purchase. Fischer Medical Supply offers two versions: the plug-in model at $750 and the rechargeable battery model at $850. An accessory replacement kit is also available at $49.99.

Monthly wick refills are the ongoing cost. Each external catheter wick is single-use and needs to be replaced after every use. Fischer Medical Supply carries two wick types — the Original (blue) and the Flex (purple) — available in packs of 10 at $120 or packs of 30 at $350. Most patients on a nightly schedule use roughly one wick per night, so a 30-pack covers approximately one month of use.

The unit is a one-time expense. The wicks are the monthly line item that doesn’t go away — and it’s where the real ongoing cost lives for patients paying out of pocket.

Breaking Down the Costs

One-Time vs. Ongoing Expenses

Upfront (one-time): The PureWick Urine Collection System unit ($750 plug-in or $850 rechargeable) and accessory replacement kit ($49.99) if needed.

Recurring (monthly): External catheter wicks — Original or Flex — in 10-packs ($120) or 30-packs ($350). Replacement canisters and tubing as needed.

The unit is the larger upfront expense, but patients consistently tell us it’s the monthly wick cost that compounds over time. Planning for that volume matters when you’re budgeting.

HSA and FSA Eligibility

PureWick supplies qualify as eligible medical expenses under both Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). If you have either account, this is one of the most practical ways to reduce your out-of-pocket cost — you’re paying with pre-tax dollars. Keep your physician’s prescription on file in case your HSA or FSA administrator requires proof of medical necessity.

Where to Buy PureWick Without Insurance

For patients purchasing out of pocket, Fischer Medical Supply carries the PureWick system and wick refills with current pricing. Fischer Medical Supply is operated by RA Fischer Co. and is the out-of-pocket purchasing option for patients who aren’t yet covered by insurance or are waiting for authorization to come through and need to start now.

A Few Tips When Buying Out of Pocket

  • Don’t overbuy initially. If you’re new to PureWick, start with a 10-pack of wicks to make sure the system works well for your situation before committing to a 30-pack.
  • Choose the right wick type for your patient. Fischer Medical Supply carries two options — the Original (blue) wicks and the Flex (purple) wicks. Both are available in 10-packs and 30-packs at the same price point.
  • Track your usage. Knowing exactly how many wicks you go through per month helps you plan your orders and avoid running short.

Does Insurance Cover PureWick?

For eligible patients, yes — and this is the part that changes everything about the cost conversation.

For patients who qualify, Medicare Part B may cover the PureWick system and monthly wick refills as durable medical equipment when prescribed by a physician and supplied through a Medicare-accredited DME supplier. Many Medicare Advantage plans and private insurance plans also cover PureWick for eligible patients, though coverage terms vary by plan.

If you’re unsure whether your plan covers PureWick, RA Fischer Co. will verify your coverage at no obligation. Visit the PureWick insurance page to start the process or contact us directly.

Getting Started

If you’re ready to purchase out of pocket right now, visit Fischer Medical Supply for current pricing and ordering. If you’d rather check insurance coverage first – and for most eligible patients this is the smarter first move – contact RA Fischer Co. and we’ll verify your coverage, handle the authorization paperwork, and get you set up. Whether you’re paying cash or going through insurance, getting a clear answer upfront is the first step.