Does Medicare Pay for Wheelchairs Used in Assisted Living Facilities?

Author: Andrea Miller

Reviewed By: Kristi Bickmann

Medicare pays part of the cost of medically necessary wheelchairs used by assisted living residents. You can qualify for wheelchair coverage if you have Medicare Part B, meet the eligibility requirements and need help getting around your assisted living community.

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.