You might be eligible for a wheelchair benefit if you have suffered a recent injury or are recovering from surgery.Older people can use their Medicare Part B benefits to get a wheelchair if they find their mobility has been compromised.Just talking to a doctor and finding the right supplier is all it takes to get a wheelchair from Medicare.
Step 1: Get on Medicare.
If you have paid into Social Security for at least 10 years and are a US citizen, you are eligible for Medicare, the government's health care insurance plan.There are four Medicare plans that cover different aspects of healthcare.Find a plan that works for you and enroll.You might already be covered.If you apply for Social Security, you will be automatically enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B, which covers hospital care and medical services."Original Medicare" is the name of the two parts together.Part D, the prescription drug plan, requires separate applications.No need to worry about them because they don't have anything to do with getting a wheelchair.
Step 2: You can schedule a doctor's appointment.
A doctor's certificate of necessity is required for Medicare to pay for a wheelchair.To receive Medicare support, your doctor will need to determine if you meet the necessary conditions.
Step 3: Explain to your doctor why you need a wheelchair.
Explain the issues or tasks you can't perform because of your condition.Provide your doctor with as much information as possible in your answers.You will want to make sure that a wheelchair will solve your issues, and not some other piece of equipment, like a cane, crutches, or a walker.Simple, everyday tasks can be done if you can't do them along.If you have trouble bathing, getting dressed, or using the bathroom, these are all acceptable reasons for needing medical equipment.
Step 4: Make sure you know how to operate the wheelchair safely.
A wheelchair takes some time to use properly and is a large piece of equipment.You will need to be able to get in and out of the chair.You will need help if you can't do it on your own.A family member or professional nurse may be able to help you safely use your wheelchair.
Step 5: Pick the wheelchair that is best for you.
The type of wheelchair you need will be noted on the Certificate of Necessity.There are three different types of wheelchairs: a manual wheelchair, power-operated vehicle, and power wheelchair.A manual wheelchair is powered by you or someone else.You can qualify for a manual wheelchair if you have enough strength in your upper body to maneuver the chair.To be eligible for a power-operated vehicle, you need to be able to sit up and operate the controls safely.You need to be able to get in and out of the vehicle on your own.You might be able to get a power wheelchair if you can't use a manual wheelchair because you cannot sit up or work the controls safely.In order to submit the written order, your doctor will need to give you a face-to-face exam.It is possible to get in and out of the car with other features.Determine if you will use your wheelchair indoors or outdoors, and how long you'll be using it for.
Step 6: The certificate of necessity needs to be signed.
Once you have shown your doctor that you need a wheelchair, he or she can sign the necessary certificate and get you on your way.
Step 7: Make sure you meet your Part B deductible.
If you have a deductible, Medicare won't pay for the wheelchair.The deductible was $147 in 2015.Before Medicare Part B coverage is applied to your wheelchair, you must have paid at least $150 of out-of-pocket medical expenses.The deductible can change every year, so make sure you have the most up-to-date information from Medicare, either through official paperwork or their website.
Step 8: Know how much you'll have to pay.
Medicare won't make the wheelchair free in most cases.Medicare Part B will cover 80 percent of the wheelchair cost if you meet the deductible.If you can't pay the 20 percent, you may be able to get assistance through the Medicare Savings Program.You have to contact your state office to find out if you qualify and how much money you can get.
Step 9: Determine if you should rent or buy a wheelchair.
In the short term, renting can be cheaper than buying a wheelchair.Medicare will cover rental costs for up to 13 months if you rent.You will own the equipment after 13 months.If you plan to use the wheelchair for a long time, buying up front may be cheaper.Discuss the length of time you will need the wheelchair with your doctor and the payment options with the medical supplier.
Step 10: You can find a supplier approved by Medicare.
If your wheelchair is approved by Medicare, you can purchase it at a medical supply store.To find those stores, you can either call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or use their online directory.There is a supplier that sells Durable Medical Equipment.
Step 11: You can find out if you are eligible for Medicare's Competitive Bidding Program.
Suppliers in certain parts of the country will submit bids to Medicare to provide wheelchairs at a lower price.If you are covered under Original Medicare, this applies.You need to check with your Medicare Advantage Plan to see if it is involved in the Competitive Bidding Program.
Step 12: You can contact a supplier.
Call the company you want to purchase from within 45 days after you have your Certificate of Necessity.A representative will come to your house to measure and make sure you get the right model.The supplier will make arrangements for delivery and payment once you pick the right chair.