Does Medicare pay for a walker? | Gallatin TN

Qualifications for Medicare Coverage for Walkers and Rollators – Available in Gallatin, TN 

If you’re struggling to move around your home, especially if you live alone, a walker can be a helpful tool to maintain your independence. A walker or rollator can offer you the support you need while allowing you the freedom to increase strength, maintain your range of motion, and independence Gallatin, TN. If your doctor determines that you meet the criteria, they can then prescribe you a walker and your Medicare Part B can help cover the cost.

There are two main types of walkers: traditional walkers and rolling walkers (also known as rollators) but only certain models are covered by Medicare so it is important to understand the differences. For example, upright walkers or UPWALKERS, are a kind of rollator that allow the user to stand fully upright with their arms in front of them, are not covered by Medicare under any circumstances.

Traditional walkers are ideal if stability is the main concern. They have four sturdy legs that the user needs to pick up to move or the two-wheel walkers have casters on the front two legs and rubber tips on the rear legs. By putting their weight on the walker while stepping forward, the rubber tip legs keep the walker from rolling. Walkers are best used in the home or to travel short distances. People with a tendency to fall forward will find this type of walker most useful.

A rollator, or rolling walker, is ideal for those who need some assistance but still have some walking ability, or for those with limited upper body strength. They have four wheels, a seat and a brake. The front wheel(s) swivel, making it easier to turn. The wheels are typically larger than a standard two-wheel walker, so it is more convenient to use outdoors and over rough or uneven terrain.

How Do I Qualify for a Medicare-covered Walker?

Walkers are considered Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and can be covered by Medicare Part B if they are deemed “medically necessary”. According to medicare.org, medically necessary is defined as, “…supplies needed to diagnose or treat an illness, injury, condition, disease, or its symptoms. If a diagnosed condition requires that you have a walking aid, this must be determined and documented by your physician that is approved by Medicare.”

This means that to qualify, these conditions must be met:

• Have a diagnosed illness, injury, disease or other condition that makes walking difficult
• It must be determined to be medically necessary by a qualified doctor or provider.
• A Medicare-approved physician must prescribe it.
• The equipment must be prescribed for home use

What About Rollators?

The qualifications for a rollator are the same except a specific diagnosis may be required to justify why the user does not have the arm strength for a traditional walker.

Limitations

Even if you do meet the requirements listed above, there are conditions under which  you could still be denied reimbursement. If Medicare has previously paid for a walker or rollator within the previous 5 years, you will not qualify for a new one. If you need a new walker before then, Medicare can cover the cost of repairs, up to the cost of actually replacing it. You must have the repairs done by a Medicare-approved supplier. If your walker has been stolen, lost or damaged beyond repair, Medicare may replace it.

Additional factors to consider:

• Supplier: You will need to purchase your walker or rollator from a Medicare-approved DME supplier.
• Out-of-Pocket Costs: If you have supplemental insurance, it may cover the remaining 20% of the approved cost

All-Star Medical: Your Partner in Mobility

While Medicare coverage focuses on the price tag, All-Star Medical focuses on helping you choose the right walker, rollator or other mobility aid that is right for you. We have a wide selection of power mobility and medical products for you to choose from. 

• Lift chairs: With options like, heat, massage and zero gravity positions, lift chairs can provide safety and comfort with numerous other benefits.
• Mobility scooters: A mobility scooter will help you to reclaim your independence. Choose from 3 or 4 wheels, or a convenient folding model for on-the-go adventures.
• Power wheelchairs: Power wheelchairs offer easy navigation and maneuverability, with some models even folding for convenient storage and transport. Their tight turning radius makes them perfect for navigating your home or busy spaces..
• And more! Whether you need a hospital bed for recovery, a stair lift for safe access to different floors, or anything in between, we have you covered. We offer a wide range of mobility and healthcare products including wheelchair ramps, bathroom safety equipment, personal care items, and even medical equipment rentals. It’s your one-stop shop for improving comfort and independence at home.

Here’s what All-Star Medical can do for you:

• Expert Guidance: Our staff will work with you to understand your needs and recommend suitable equipment to keep you comfortable and safe.
• Medicare Expertise: We can assist you in understanding Medicare coverage for a variety of products and navigating the approval process.
• Variety of Options: We offer a broad range of products to fit your specific requirements and budget.
• Quality Products: We only carry products from trusted manufacturers known for durability and reliability.
• Exceptional Service: Our commitment to exceptional service ensures a smooth and worry-free experience.

We understand that mobility challenges can be difficult. All-Star Medical is here to help you regain independence and improve your quality of life. We understand that everyone’s needs are unique. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through the selection process, answer your questions, and help you find the perfect walker or rollator to fit your needs. Visit our showrooms or browse our website to explore the wide variety of medical products we carry, and take control of your independence and comfort.