These are only considered payable where the mattress being purchased is not compatible with the employee's existing base set.

Example

An employee, with a compensable back injury, is required to purchase a mattress to assist supporting his spine.

As the bed used prior to his injury was a waterbed, its base is unsuitable as a base to the mattress which is required.

Under the circumstances, it is reasonable to purchase the mattress and base as medical treatment under section 16.