If you or a loved one is living with limited mobility, investing in a mobile stairlift can be the best way to remain independent. Yet, it's understandable that considering this expense may seem daunting at first - but what if we told you there could be help? In this article, we will investigate whether Medicaid or Medicare cover the cost of mobile stairlifts, as well as any other potential assistance available.
Read on to learn more.
Are Mobile Stairlifts covered by Medicaid or Medicare?
The short answer is: it depends. While both Medicaid and Medicare are designed to help with medical costs and equipment for people who otherwise may not be able to afford them, the exact coverage varies from state to state. Generally speaking, though,
What is Medicaid and how is it different to Medicare?
Medicaid is a federally funded healthcare program that provides healthcare and medical coverage for certain individuals and families with low income, including seniors. This program is managed by each individual state, which determines eligibility criteria and benefits. Medicare, on the other hand, is a federal health insurance program providing coverage to people aged 65 or older as well as younger people with certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease.
When it comes to medical equipment, Medicaid covers a range of services, including durable medical equipment (DME) such as wheelchairs, walkers, and hospital beds. Generally speaking, if the item is medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor, then it is covered by Medicaid.
Are Mobile Stairlifts covered by Medicaid?
The good news is that mobile stairlifts are considered DME under both Federal and State laws, meaning they are eligible for coverage under Medicaid in most states. However, depending on the state you live in you may need to meet certain criteria before you can receive coverage for your stairlift. For example, some states require a Mobility Assessment Form to be filled out before any coverage can be granted; others may require additional documentation from your doctor or specialist.
Furthermore, even though most states cover mobile stairlifts through Medicaid for eligible individuals meeting the requirements mentioned above; there may be a few exceptions where Medicaid does not cover them. In these cases, individuals will have to pay out of pocket for their stairs lift but there are financing options available to make this more affordable. So it’s always best to check with your local department of social services before making any purchases just to make sure you don’t waste money on something that won’t be covered by your insurance plan later on down the line.
In addition to Medicaid covering mobile stairlifts in most cases; Medicare also covers at least part of the expenses related to this type of equipment if it meets certain specifications like being able to support an individual’s weight and being used primarily inside the home. For Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) to cover your stairlift purchase you must first obtain a written prescription from your doctor stating why this particular piece of equipment is necessary for you or your loved one’s health needs - without this prescription Medicare will not cover your stairlift purchase even if you meet all other requirements set forth by Medicare Part B regulations.
If I can't find any coverage what else can I do?
Mobile Stairlift Financing Program
At Mobile Stairlift we offer a financing program through Affirm. Where customers can make monthly payments, interest-free and with no hidden fees. Your credit score will not be affected when you check your eligibility, even though we perform a credit check. Get in touch to find out more about our flexible financing.
Other available options
If both Medicaid and Medicare do not cover mobile stairlifts then there are still options available such as private companies that specialize in providing financing solutions specifically designed for mobility needs such as these – so don’t worry if it looks like all hope is lost when it comes to finding financial assistance! Additionally, many charities dedicated exclusively towards helping elderly individuals finance mobility devices do exist so don't forget about exploring those resources too!
Overall while stairlifts provided by mobile services might not be covered completely under either Medicare or Medicaid plans depending on where you live; there are still alternatives available that can help alleviate some of the costs associated with purchasing them – whether through private companies, charitable donations or special discounts offered directly from manufacturers themselves. Just remember that research always pays off when searching for financial assistance!
Buy now, pay later. Contact our experts!