I have a wheelchair I use when my husband and I go on long outings. I can walk but become exhausted after walking longer than 10 minutes. Being pushed allows me to enjoy long walks in our parks. I also enjoy using a scooter to shop due to my unsteady vision when walking through the store. Insurance has sent me a letter stating I need a In Home Assessment to determine coverage. I don't use the chair in the house. I don't know how to state my need for the chair to insurance. Any advice helps… read more
I know it is rediculous, particularly with something that could vastly improve quality of life for someone who couldnt otherwise enjoy certain outdoor activities. The other though I had was, sometimes local agencies have them and can donate one. Like local hospice organizations, home health etc. I hate to say it but, when patients die often their equipment is donated back to the organization to help someone who cant otherwise get one. Obviously not custom but, free. Just a thought.
PS..you can go online, just Google medicare requirements for wheelchairs and that should help. Most insurance companies follow medicare guidelines. Good luck!
The difficulty is that insurance often won't pay for it unless it is necessary in the home. They don't care how much it improves your quality of life by allowing you to do activities outdoors. Medical necessity means it's needed for basic activities of daily living ie in the home. You need an evaluation that says you can't ambulate more than a few feet. It's kind of a bummer because most of us won't need it in the home but rather outdoors. Sometimes the companies that set up the wheelchair, power chair etc have forms and certain tips on getting it paid. You might want to ask them for help.
Get a RX from your Neurologist for Wheelchair.
I agree with CoolLioness, your physician can validate your claim. MSAA is a great organization for Assistive Equipment support.