Frequently Asked Questions

Medicare benefits pay for 80% of the cost of a Power Mobility Device IF you meet their guidelines of medical necessity for use in the home. The remaining 20% may be covered by a secondary insurance or Medicaid. There is no insurance coverage for a device needed only outside of the home. 

Typically if you use a cane or walker to move about SAFELY in your home, you would not meet medical necessity guidelines. A history of falls may establish medical necessity. If you are able to use a manual wheelchair without difficulty, insurance typically will not pay for a power device. 

Talking with your physician is an important first step if you desire to use insurance coverage by establishing medical necessity. The equipment provider that you choose should be able to service and perform repairs to your device throughout the lifetime usefulness of the Power Mobility Device. An accredited dealer is experienced in the insurance process and can help you navigate the complexities. 

Power Mobility Devices are welcome on public transportation, in shopping and dining venues, as well as church and recreational facilities. You may certainly use your equipment outside of your home, but remember, if you want to use insurance benefits to cover the cost of the device, medical necessity must be established through your physician. 

Personal Operated Vehicles, better known as “scooters”, are a popular and convenient device to use in the community if you tire easily or experience pain when walking distances; this is NOT considered a medical necessity. 

Physician involvement is not necessary to purchase a device for use. Purchase options include affordable reconditioned devices and credit payment plans. Sales tax can be waived if a simple physician prescription is provided.

Medicare benefits pay for 80% of the cost of repairs to a Power Mobility Device IF you meet their guidelines of medical necessity for use in the home, and the required servicing is not due to reckless use. If medical necessity was established with Medicare when you first received your equipment, repairs can be covered by a similar but typically shorter paperwork process. The remaining 20% may be covered by a secondary insurance or Medicaid. There is no insurance coverage for a device needed only outside of the home. 

Frequently the dealer that provided your Power Mobility Device to you does not perform repairs or has a long waiting list. You may choose any insurance enrolled provider to perform repairs to your device. Begin by contacting a repair provider, such as A.S.A.P. Medical Equipment. We will be able to work with your physician to obtain insurance required documentation to limit any out of pocket expense.  

A.S.A.P. Medical equipment provides a loaner device for your use while we analyze the needs of your equipment and return it to proper functioning. Most insurers cover this expense as well.