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Does Medicare Pay for Wheelchairs 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
Who qualifies for wheelchair coverage through Medicare?
You may qualify for a wheelchair, walker or scooter through Medicare Part B if:
- You have a written physician order indicating medical need for a mobility device
- You have a medical condition that limits your mobility
- You can’t do daily activities because of mobility limitations, even with a walker, crutch or cane
- You can operate a wheelchair safely on your own or will have someone to help you use it
- Your home or assisted living center can accommodate the wheelchair
You must get the medical prescription for the wheelchair from a doctor who accepts Medicare and use a Medicare-approved durable medical equipment vendor to purchase the chair.
How much will Medicare pay for a wheelchair?
Medicare covers 80% of the wheelchair cost once you meet your annual Part B deductible. You’ll be responsible for the remaining 20% of the cost. For example, if you’ve already reached your deductible for the year, and your wheelchair costs $2,000, Medicare pays $1,600, and you’re responsible for the remaining $400. If you haven’t met your deductible, you must do so before Medicare covers the wheelchair.