Power Wheelchairs and Medicare – What You Must Know

Over the past several decades the power wheelchair business has grown. It’s no wonder considering the now-aging baby boom is set to provide a steady stream of customers as this generation succumbs to bad knees, arthritis and other health issues. Manufacturers of these chairs advertise the fact that Medicare will cover the cost of these chairs and in many cases this is true, but potential buyers should understand Medicare guidelines before they begin their search for a power chair.

A person looking for Medicare assistance in purchasing a power wheelchair must meet several qualifications. First, they must have difficulty moving around their home due to a medical condition. Additionally, they must have difficulty doing things like bathing, getting in and out of bed and dressing. Finally, it must be determined that the person can safely operate the chair or has someone available that can assist them in safely operating the chair, and the chair must be able to be used in the person’s home. All of these conditions must be met in order to qualify for Medicare assistance for a power chair.

An in-office visit to the doctor is required before one can qualify for Medicare assistance. The doctor must provide a written explanation of the person’s medical condition and why a power chair is warranted. The doctor will also make the determination that the person can safely operate the chair. Because of the possibility of fraud, a person looking for a power chair to be covered by Medicare should make sure they are seeing a doctor who is reputable to help ensure their application is not delayed or denied.

The fact that Medicare covers the cost of a power chair is a big selling point for manufacturers. Medicare covers only 80 percent of the cost of a chair and then only if a person has met their Part B deductible. The buyer is then responsible for the remaining 20% of the purchase. Medicare also sets a limit for the cost of the chair as well, so additional options may add to the final amount the buyer is responsible for. Most private insurers will cover the amount that Medicare does not cover, but it is important for a buyer to check their coverage before committing to buy.

Mobility is one of the most important aspects of a person’s life. This is one of the main reasons Medicare has a mobility benefit. Understanding how this benefit works, and making sure to follow Medicare guidelines can help a person in their search and acquisition of a power wheelchair.