A mobility scooter is a means of conveyance around the house for the elderly who have restricted movement. It can be a blessing in old age, but are you eligible to get one for yourself? It’s frustrating to prepare for it only to find out you can’t have one. Today, we will discuss everything that can qualify you to get a mobility scooter from Medicare Insurance companies.
Make sure you invest in good healthcare and go for a reliable Medicare company like The Benefit Link, as they can make the acquiring process easier for you.
With that said, let’s start!
Requirements to get a Mobility Scooter from Medicare Insurance Companies:
Motorized scooters for the elderly are covered under Medicare if the following criteria are met:
Medicare Requirements:
You must be 65 years and above to get a mobility scooter from the insurance company. Please note that Medicare does not cover any kind of motorized transport or conveyance device which is designed mainly for outdoor use. You are eligible for the scooter only if you have trouble moving around in the house and a cane or a walker is not helpful anymore.
Once you have met these requirements, your healthcare provider requirements need to be completed.
Requirements of Healthcare Provider:
There is an entire set of stipulations that you need to pass to be cleared for a mobility scooter by your healthcare provider:
- A face-to-face meeting with the doctor where he examines you to see if a mobility vehicle is needed
- A copy of the examination and the mobility scooter’s prescription must be sent to the PMD (Personal Mobility Device) supplier within 45 days of the review.
- A bill that states all the management codes and required evaluation of the appointment with your doctor must be sent to the supplier for future reference.
- Once this is done, there will be an assessment to know what your situation is and why you need the scooter.
Questions Asked:
You or your caretaker needs to answer a set of questions. These questions are:
- What are your locomotor movement restrictions, and how do they interfere with your daily routine?
- Why isn’t a walker or a cane enough to cover your needs?
- Why is a manual wheelchair not enough for your needs?
- Do you think you are physically and mentally capable of operating the PMD in your home?
- Can you safely get on and off your scooter?
These questions may sound probing, but they are every bit necessary for a reliable evaluation of your situation.
What if you need a mobility scooter, but Medicare doesn’t cover it?
Sometimes you need motorized mobility around the house, but your Medicare doesn’t cover it because you couldn’t pass the eligibility test. There are no restrictions on buying a PMD yourself.
Just make sure that the supplier is certified by The Joint Commission, and Medicare supplement insurance can cover any damages or injuries caused by the device.
As you can see, it’s not impossible to get a motorized scooter. Reliable Medicare insurance companies like The Benefit Link can make the process easier for you. You can get the scooter with your own money, but it is recommended to have your situation evaluated and save money with your insurance.
For further information, visit the FAQs section below & to read more article visit Our Blog
Frequently Asked Questions:
I don’t meet the age requirement; can I still get a mobility scooter?
No, you must be 65 years or above to qualify for a mobility scooter from Medicare insurance companies. However, you can get the scooter with your own money as there are no restrictions.
My doctor didn’t send the prescription to the supplier. Can I still get a mobility scooter?
No, you will need to send the prescription to the PMD supplier within 45 days of examination by your doctor to be eligible for a mobility scooter. If you get late, your plea will be void, and the scooter will be denied.
What if I can’t safely get on and off my scooter?
If you cannot get on and off your scooter with ease, you can hire a caregiver to do it for you. However, it is one of the things considered when you are being evaluated for a mobility scooter.
Can my Medicare Insurance Company cover any accidents caused by the device?
Unless it is self-inflicted or intentional, they can cover up damages done using a PMD.
Should I leave my mobility scooter on charge all the time?
No, you should never leave your mobility scooter on charge. Overcharging can cause permanent damage to the battery.
