Does Medicare Pay For A Stair Lift

However medicare is not the only option.

Does medicare pay for a stair lift.

Medicare part b medical insurance covers patient lifts as durable medical equipment dme that your doctor prescribes for use in your home. Medicare s part b includes coverage for durable medical equipment dme such as wheelchairs and walkers but stair lifts are usually not included in these benefits. If you have a temporary need for a stair lift you may be able to rent the equipment. Unfortunately standard health insurance policies and medicare will not typically cover the purchase or installation of a stair lift even with a doctor s order.

Medicare supplemental medigap insurance does not cover stairlifts. The cost of a straight rail stair lift is typically around 2 200 to 5 000 with installation based upon the make and model. The short uncomplicated answer is for all practical purposes original medicare does not pay for stair lifts. And since original medicare does not offer assistance with stairlifts neither will providers of supplemental or medigap insurance.

They see it as more of a tool for convenience instead of a medically necessary piece of equipment. Medicare supplement insurance is designed to assist with deductibles and copays for goods and services that are covered by original medicare. Medicare pays for different kinds of dme in different ways. But medicare advantage plans may cover the cost.

Stair lifts are considered a home modification which isn t covered under medicare guidelines.