Does Medicare Pay For Recliner Lift Chairs?

When it comes to questions about Medicare insurance coverage, understanding specific benefits can be quite challenging. One common inquiry is whether Medicare covers the cost of recliner lift chairs — essential mobility aids that can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors with mobility issues. Let's explore how Medicare handles this.

Medicare Coverage for Lift Chairs

Medicare does offer coverage for recliner lift chairs, but only for the motorized lifting mechanism, not the entire chair itself. This portion is covered under Medicare Part B as a durable medical equipment (DME), provided certain conditions are met. The patient must obtain a doctor's prescription that qualifies the need for the lift mechanism as medically necessary. It's crucial to purchase the lift chair through a Medicare-approved supplier to ensure coverage.

Eligibility Criteria and Costs

To be eligible, the lift mechanism must be a medical necessity — often required by individuals who have severe arthritis of the hip or knee or have musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Once eligibility is approved, Medicare typically covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount, after the deductible is met. The remaining 20% becomes the out-of-pocket responsibility of the beneficiary, which can potentially be covered through a Medicare Supplement plan.

How to Acquire a Lift Chair Through Medicare

Understanding the process can ease the acquisition of your recliner lift chair. Start by getting a Certificate of Medical Necessity from a doctor, detailing the medical condition and the requirement of a lift chair. Following this, choose a supplier that accepts Medicare assignment to avoid additional charges. Submission of the necessary documentation to Medicare will follow, potentially easing the financial burden.

Additional Support Through Supplemental Insurance

For those concerned about the remaining costs, Medigap plans, sold by private companies to complement Medicare, can help cover copays and deductibles not paid by Medicare. It's advisable to compare different policies to find one that suits your financial and coverage needs.

In summary, while Medicare doesn’t cover the entire cost of a recliner lift chair, the assistance provided for the lift mechanism can be substantial if executed correctly. Always consult a certified Medicare consultant for personalized advice and to explore additional protection through Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans. Whether you’re considering a lift chair for yourself or a loved one, this aid can significantly enhance daily life and mobility.