For individuals who qualify, Medicaid may cover the cost of a Hoyer lift if a doctor considers the device medically necessary. Although Hoyer models can vary widely in price, even basic models may be prohibitively expensive for low-income families. 

The Average Cost to Purchase or Rent a Hoyer Lift

Consumers can choose from several types of Hoyer lifts, and prices vary according to a unit’s complexity. Freestanding hydraulic units with basic transfer functionality typically cost between $400 and $500, and sit-to-stand models have an average price of about $1,000. Consumers who opt for an electric unit that plugs into a wall outlet or uses rechargeable batteries can expect to pay considerably more, with the cost of these units averaging about $3,000. At the high end of the market, motorized ceiling-mounted Hoyer lifts can have prices upwards of $20,000, including installation costs. Individuals who require a lift that supports a higher weight limit can also expect to pay more.

Hoyer lifts are also available to rent at many medical supply companies, with prices ranging from $25 to several hundred dollars per month. Costs may vary depending on the supplier, unit type and anticipated rental duration.

Medicaid Coverage for Hoyer Lifts

Because Medicaid is jointly funded by federal and state governments, program rules vary by state. In some areas, coverage includes medically necessary durable medical equipment, such as Hoyer lifts. Depending on a state’s reimbursement rules, Medicaid may pay for equipment purchase, rental or a rent-to-own program. Medicaid enrollees who are interested in purchasing a Hoyer lift should contact their state Medicaid office for information on state-specific coverage rules. 

Medicaid Waivers

Although availability varies by state, waivers may provide additional health care coverage to qualified Medicaid beneficiaries. The Home and Community-Based Services waiver, which is available in many areas, is designed to help individuals with functional limitations remain in their homes, rather than moving to a care facility. The program covers the costs of an array of assistive devices, which may include a Hoyer lift if a plan participant can prove medical necessity.

Some state Medicaid programs also offer the Long-Term Services and Supports waiver, which covers the cost of long-term care needs for individuals with disabilities who demonstrate the need for a nursing home level of care. The program, which is designed to help individuals stay in their homes rather than moving to a residential care facility, may cover the costs of durable medical equipment, such as a Hoyer lift.

More information about the Medicaid waivers available in specific areas can be found on the government’s State Waivers List.

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