Does Medicare pay for scooters used in assisted living facilities?

Medicare Part B pays for scooters used in assisted living facilities, as long as you meet the other requirements for coverage. You must show that you have a medical need for the scooter as well as the ability to use it effectively and safely. The assisted living community has to be your primary residence, and you must be able to live independently with the help of the services you receive there. Medicare doesn’t cover scooters in non-independent settings such as a skilled nursing or memory care facility.

Under Medicare requirements for durable medical equipment, such as a scooter, “medical need” means a physician or therapist prescribed it for you to address mobility limitations that a health issue causes. The health care provider must attest that you need the scooter to complete daily activities such as dressing and getting around your home.

Medicare typically covers power-operated scooters used to assist with mobility. If you meet the requirements for a scooter, you must select a model designed for indoor use. Medicare may not cover a scooter that’s mostly for outdoor use.

Start the process by communicating with your health care provider. They can evaluate your mobility needs and provide the documentation you need to submit a Medicare claim for a scooter. Also, talk with the staff at your assisted living facility to make sure the community can support your request and help with the approval process.