Does Part B Cover Medicare Scooters?

Does Medicare cover scooters?

A mobility scooter might qualify for Medicare Part B coverage if all of the following apply:¹

• The beneficiary has had a mobility examination by a physician and the physician has written a valid doctor's prescription.
• It is a reasonable and necessary mobility solution.
• Its primary use is for activities of daily living inside the home.
• Other mobility products such as a cane, walker or manual wheelchair will not resolve the beneficiar's mobility limitations.

Mobility Scooters: What to Consider

Steering and Handling Ability

Electric mobility scooters are steered by handlebars and operated through controls located on the vehicle's tiller. This type of set up works well for an individual with enough upper body strength, arm reach and range of motion to manage the power scooter safely. For others, a power chair might be a better solution.

Maneuverability and Turning Radius

Since a Medicare-covered mobility scooter is used primarily for getting around indoors, the home environment must provide adequate space to accommodate the power scooter's wide turning radius. For this reason, scooters are best used outdoors.

Therapeutic Seating and Adaptable Comfort

Unlike electric wheelchairs, motorized scooters lack customizable, therapeutic seating. Most scooter components may only be adjusted slightly, if at all. With a power chair, these personal adaptations are more easily made and could be necessary if there is a change in the user's condition.

Are You Making the Right Mobility Choice?

If you have questions about finding the right power mobility device for your particular needs, talk to a Hoveround Mobility Specialist at 800-542-7236. Hoveround offers a complete selection of maneuverable power chairs, stylish mobility scooters and other mobility products to fulfill a variety of personal mobility needs.

¹Insurance coverage depends on medical necessity as determined by insurer. Valid doctor's prescription required. Hoveround currently does not take Medicare assignment on electric scooters and most other DME companies also do not accept Medicare assignment on scooters. Find more information about Medicare's benefit for power scooters and power wheelchairs by visiting Medicare.gov.

This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.