Does Medicare Cover Wheel Chairs?

Wheelchairs are used to provide transportation for disabled or sick individuals. With the evolving of technology over the years, wheelchairs can be customized and personalized to meet the user's needs.

Types

• Manual and power wheelchairs are typically covered under Medicare if there is a medical need for them.

Medical Necessity

• Medicare requires supporting documentation from the medical record and a prescription from the physician prior to paying 80% of the cost. According to Medicare requirements, they will usually cover the cost if you can't walk on your own, you have severe weakness in your upper body caused by a brain, spinal, or muscle condition, your upper body weakness prevents you from using a manual wheelchair, or you spend most of your time in bed or in a chair when you are not in your wheelchair.

Qualifying

• You must have Medicare Part B coverage, a certificate of medical necessity, and a doctor's prescription.

Cost

• After paying your annual deductible for Medicare, the patient is required to pay the remaining 20%.

Supplemental Insurance

• Having a secondary insurance may alleviate having to pay the 20% out of pocket.