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Does Medicare pay for scooters used in assisted living facilities?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
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.
What does medical need mean for Medicare coverage?
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.
What types of scooters does Medicare cover?
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.
How can I get scooter coverage through Medicare?
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.