Medicare Part B typically covers wheelchairs as durable medical equipment (DME) that is appropriate for use in the home. Durable medical equipment (DME) is equipment that helps you complete your daily activities. In most cases, 80% of DME costs are covered by Medicare Part B if it is prescribed by your doctor. If you are an inpatient in a hospital or skilled nursing facility (SNF), DME is covered by Part A.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you must follow the plan’s rules for getting DME. Your plan may require that you receive approval from the plan before getting your DME, use a supplier in the plan’s network, or use a preferred brand. Contact your plan to learn more about its DME rules.
For more information, see our article on durable medical equipment here.