If you or a loved one in Central Ohio is having trouble getting around the house, a wheelchair can restore independence — and in many cases, Medicare Part B helps pay for it. Here’s a plain-English guide to how coverage works and how our team in Westerville can help.
Does Medicare cover wheelchairs?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters as durable medical equipment (DME) when they’re medically necessary for use in your home. After you meet the Part B deductible, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and Medicare pays the rest — as long as your supplier accepts Medicare assignment. A & Z Medical Supplies is a Medicare-enrolled DME provider.
What you need to qualify
Medicare has a few clear requirements:
- A face-to-face visit with your doctor. For a manual wheelchair this exam generally must be within six months; for a power wheelchair, within 45 days of the prescription.
- A written order (prescription) from your treating provider stating the equipment is medically necessary.
- Difficulty moving around your home — you can’t do daily activities safely even with a cane, crutch, or walker.
- Medicare-enrolled doctor and supplier. Both your prescriber and your DME supplier must be enrolled in Medicare.
- Prior authorization may be required for certain power wheelchairs before Medicare will pay.
Coverage always depends on your specific plan, eligibility, medical necessity, and any prior-authorization requirements. We’ll help you understand what applies to you.
Manual, power, or scooter?
A manual wheelchair works well if you have upper-body strength or a caregiver to help. A power wheelchair or scooter may be right if propelling a manual chair isn’t safe. If you only need help with balance and distance, a walker or rollator might be the better first step — and often easier to obtain.
How A & Z Medical Supplies makes it simple
We’re a family-owned store in Westerville serving Westerville, Columbus, Dublin, Gahanna, and the surrounding area. We’ll help you check your coverage, coordinate the paperwork with your doctor’s office, and deliver and set up your wheelchair at home. If you’re a discharge planner or physician, see our Healthcare Professionals page.
Need equipment in Central Ohio?
A & Z Medical Supplies is a family-owned store in Westerville. We deliver, set up, and accept Medicare, Medicaid & most major plans.
This article is general information, not medical or insurance advice. Coverage varies by plan and situation. Please confirm details with your provider and Medicare.