Quick Answer
Yes. Medicare Part B covers wheelchairs and scooters as durable medical equipment (DME) when your doctor determines they are medically necessary for use in your home. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after your Part B deductible. Power wheelchairs require prior authorization.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part B) | Covered (80%) | Covers manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters as DME |
| Medicare Advantage | Covered | Coverage varies by plan; may cover additional devices |
| Medigap | Covers 20% Coinsurance | Covers the 20% Part B coinsurance for approved devices |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers wheelchairs and scooters as durable medical equipment (DME) when medically necessary. Your doctor must prescribe the device after a face-to-face examination, and your DME supplier must accept Medicare assignment.
To qualify, you must demonstrate that your health condition makes it notably challenging to move about your home, that daily activities cannot be performed even with a cane or walker, and that you can operate the device safely (independently or with a caregiver's help).
Power wheelchairs require prior authorization from Medicare before you can receive coverage. Your doctor must conduct a face-to-face exam and submit documentation proving the medical necessity and your ability to safely operate the device.
What It Covers
- Manual wheelchairs (2-wheel and 4-wheel)
- Power-operated vehicles/scooters
- Motorized/electric wheelchairs (with prior authorization)
- Wheelchair repairs and maintenance
- Medically necessary wheelchair accessories
What It Doesn't Cover
- Knee scooters
- Devices not deemed medically necessary
- Devices from suppliers who don't accept Medicare
- Upgrades or features beyond medical necessity
You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after the Part B deductible ($283 in 2025). Medicare pays the remaining 80%.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans cover wheelchairs and scooters as DME, but costs and available suppliers may vary by plan. Unlike Original Medicare, you may need to use specific in-network DME suppliers.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover additional mobility devices or accessories that Original Medicare does not, including knee scooters in some cases. Review your specific plan benefits to understand what is covered and at what cost.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Medigap plans help cover the 20% coinsurance left after Medicare pays its 80% share for wheelchairs and scooters. Depending on your Medigap plan, you could pay little to nothing out-of-pocket for a Medicare-approved mobility device.
Medigap Plan G, for example, covers the Part B coinsurance, meaning you would only be responsible for the annual Part B deductible before your wheelchair or scooter is fully covered.
Wheelchair & Scooter Cost Estimates with Medicare
| Device Type | Typical Cost | Your Cost with Medicare (20%) |
|---|---|---|
| Manual wheelchair (basic) | $100 – $500 | $20 – $100 |
| Manual wheelchair (lightweight) | $500 – $2,000 | $100 – $400 |
| Power scooter | $1,000 – $3,500 | $200 – $700 |
| Power wheelchair (standard) | $2,000 – $6,000 | $400 – $1,200 |
| Power wheelchair (complex rehab) | $5,000 – $30,000+ | $1,000 – $6,000+ |
| Knee scooter | $100 – $350 | Not covered (full cost) |
✦ Important Exceptions & Requirements
Face-to-face Exam is Required
Your doctor must conduct a face-to-face examination before prescribing a wheelchair or scooter. During this exam, your doctor assesses your mobility limitations and determines the appropriate device.
Power Wheelchairs Require Prior Authorization
Before Medicare will cover a power wheelchair, prior authorization must be obtained. Your doctor must submit documentation proving medical necessity and your ability to safely operate the device.
Home Use Requirement
Medicare covers wheelchairs and scooters for use in your home. Your home must be able to accommodate the device - for example, doorways must be wide enough for the wheelchair to pass through.
Knee Scooters are not Covered
Original Medicare does not cover knee scooters because they are not considered medically necessary DME. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover them at their discretion.
Supplier Must Accept Medicare
Your DME supplier must be enrolled in Medicare and accept assignment. Using a non-participating supplier may result in higher costs or no coverage.
Competitive Bidding May Affect Options
Medicare's competitive bidding program may limit which suppliers and models are available in your area. Check with Medicare to find participating suppliers near you.
✦ Frequently Asked Questions
David Haass
AuthorDavid Haass is a licensed Medicare expert and member of the Forbes Finance Council who has been helping beneficiaries navigate their Medicare options.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare.