The length of time that it takes for Medicare to approve a power wheelchair is between a few weeks to a few months.
The process for Medicare to approve a power wheelchair involves several steps which can take some time which include.
A doctors exam, prior authorization, submitting documentation and often a home assessment.
Your doctor must send a prior authorization request to the durable medical equipment Medicare Administrative Contractor and the DME will respond within 10 days.
You also must meet certain requirements and be diagnosed with conditions such as severe arthritis, severe inability to walk, stroke, multiple sclerosis etc.
Medicare will pay for a power wheelchair when it's medically necessary.
For Medicare to pay for a power wheelchair you must meet certain requirements.
The doctor must write a prescription for the power wheelchair after they have a face to face exam and conversation with you.
The doctor will first consider other options like a manual wheelchair, walker or cane.
If you're unable to physically operate a manual wheelchair then you'll likely be approved for the power wheelchair and Medicare will pay for it.
However if you're able to physically operate a manual wheelchair then you may be denied the power wheelchair but be approved for a regular wheelchair or scooter.
Your healthcare provider will also often assess your home to ensure there's enough room for the power wheelchair.
You also must have Medicare Part B for the Power wheelchair and they will only approve the power wheel chair if you need it inside the home.
If you only need the power wheelchair outside the home then Medicare won't cover the power wheelchair.
Medicare will also not replace a wheelchair that you recently received or started renting if you're simply not happy with it.
If you think you need a power wheelchair or scooter, you should first speak to your doctor or primary care provider (PCP).
If your doctor or PCP determines that it is medically necessary that you use a power wheelchair or scooter, they should sign an order, prescription, or certificate after a face-to-face office visit.