How to Get a Walker Through Medicare

Some senior citizens and younger folks with physical disabilities use walkers to assist them in moving from place to place. Walkers come in many different styles to meet the needs of different users. For instance, some have wheels on the front, some have wheels on front and back, some have forearm supports, some even have folding seats in case users must stop to rest while walking with their walker.

Medicare Part B pays for durable medical equipment when medically necessary, including walkers. Medicare will only pay for a walker if you need one to get around inside your home, however; you can use the walker when you go out as well, but if you only need it when out and about in the community, Medicare will not cover the cost.

Step One

Talk to your doctor about your need for a walker. Ask your doctor for a written order for a walker and ask him to specify in the order if you need a walker with any special features, such as forearm supports or a foldaway seat. A physical therapist can also help you determine the type of walker that best meets your needs.

Step Two

Take the order from your doctor and your red, white and blue Medicare card to an authorized supplier. Call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) if you need a list of authorized suppliers in your area. Your doctor or physical therapist may also recommend a supplier, but check to make sure they accept Medicare coverage.

Step Three

Pay 20 percent of the approved cost of your walker. Medicare will pay the other 80 percent. An authorized supplier will help you complete all the necessary paperwork to bill Medicare for their portion of the cost. They may agree to bill you, but many suppliers prefer you to pay your portion of the cost up front.

Tip

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan instead of Medicare Part B, call the telephone number on your insurance card to find out how to get a walker under your insurance plan.

Warning

Only purchase your walker from an authorized supplier or Medicare will not cover any of the cost. In that case, you will have to pay the full amount out of pocket.

Sources:

Medicare.gov. http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10050.pdf . Medicare and You 2011.

EMedicine. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/325247-overview . Assistive Devices to Improve Independence.