Mobility Scooters
and Medicare Coverage

When you look at getting mobility scooters and Medicare insurance, knowing what we know about Social Security, you might be a little worried. However, fear not. For the time being, Medicare will cover most mobility scooter expenses.

The rules about mobility scooters and Medicare

The laws, as they stand right now, dictate that people seeking Medicare coverage for an electric wheelchair will not be covered unless they are incapable of moving with relative comfort around the inside of their own home. This rule does not apply to scooter users.

There is an unfortunate effect of this rule; many who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are left marginalized. Without the upper arm strength to operate the handlebars of their scooter, but possessing the ability to take a few steps at a time in their own home without succumbing to arthritic pain, these people are left uncovered for a suitable mobility assistance unit.

Luckily, there are people lobbying to have this rule overturned and allow electric wheelchairs even for people who can move around indoors comfortably. For the time being, however, these people may want to look into having a mobility scooter outfitted with armrest controls.

Another rule regarding mobility scooters and Medicare coverage dictates that Medicare will not cover your expenses if you already own a working, reliable mobility scooter. They will not reimburse you if you buy a scooter or wheelchair on your own, so make sure to check and see if you're covered before making any major purchases.

They will not buy you a replacement scooter unless you can prove that your previous scooter is, well, a piece of junk. Make sure to work things out with your doctor. As long as you have a prescription for a new scooter or wheelchair, the retailer will bill Medicare, with no cost to yourself.

Many insurance plans even cover accessories and customization, such as adding little things like a backpack or a cup holder to your mobility scooter, and Medicare will generally approve of any scooter that is reasonably medically necessary.

Should you choose a scooter or a wheelchair?

The rules may be a little stricter regarding wheelchairs and Medicare coverage, and as such, many people have opted to resort to riding smaller mobility scooters, instead. If you have been approved for coverage of both, it basically comes down to personal preference.

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