By Mobility Alliance Group Staff
Let’s not pull any punches here. Power wheelchairs
and scooters are expensive. Some individuals and families are
in a financial position to pay for a power wheelchair or scooter
out of pocket. But for many (if not most), a purchase this large
will require some assistance or financing. The good news is that
there are many financial options for those who have limited
mobility.
Medicare and Private Insurance
Medicare consists of two parts, part A and part B. Part B requires
you to pay an annual premium; however, it is part B that covers the
purchase of durable medical equipment, which is the category that
power wheelchairs and scooters fall into. If you are covered by
Medicare part B and you meet the Medicare guidelines,
Medicare will cover 80% of the cost of a power wheelchair or
scooter.
The basic Medicare guidelines to qualify:
- The patient’s condition is such that without the use of a
wheelchair the patient would be unable to perform daily activities
in their home, and
- The patient’s condition is such that a wheelchair is medically
necessary and the patient is unable to operate a wheelchair
manually, and
- The patient is capable of safely operating the controls for the
power wheelchair.
Additionally, if you have secondary private insurance, your
private insurance may cover the remaining 20% of the cost.
If this sounds complicated to you, don’t worry. Almost every
power wheelchair and scooter provider has consultants who
understand all of the guidelines and requirements. They can ask you
all the right questions and even handle all the paperwork for
you.
For Those without Medicare Coverage
If you aren’t covered by Medicare part B, don’t despair. There are
still plenty of options. The best option belongs to those who have
private insurance. Many private insurance companies will have a
durable medical equipment benefit. If you have private insurance,
call your insurance company and find out what benefit is provided.
Again, you can rely on the consultants with the power wheelchair
providers to help you walk through this process. In most cases,
they will be familiar with your insurance provider and will be able
to provide guidance to receive your benefits.
If you are without Medicare coverage and private insurance, you
still have financing options. Similar to car dealerships, power
wheelchair and scooter providers can provide long-term financing
options. Some even offer zero-percent loans and automatic
payments.
Furthermore, you can also choose to pay by credit card or to
seek out your own financial partner. If you have a great
relationship with your bank or credit union, you may prefer to
secure your own loan and loan terms.
If your limited mobility is due to a work accident, workman’s
compensation insurance may also provide coverage. Your case manager
and doctor can help you determine if you qualify to receive a power
wheelchair or scooter.
The Bottom Line
If limited mobility is interfering with your daily tasks and
responsibilities, you have many options to help you handle the
finances needed to secure a power wheelchair or scooter. Don’t wait
to start reclaiming your freedom.
You’ll be surprised how easy it can be.
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