Will Medicare cover the cost of an electric wheelchair?
In 2026, navigating the complexities of healthcare coverage for mobility equipment remains a top priority for patients and their families. While Medicare can cover a significant portion of the cost for an electric wheelchair, the process is governed by strict “medical necessity” guidelines and specific procedural steps.
Understanding Medicare Part B Coverage
Medicare classifies electric wheelchairs as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). Under Medicare Part B, the program generally covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for a power wheelchair, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20% coinsurance after you have met your annual Part B deductible ($283 in 2026).
However, unlike a standard manual chair, Medicare only approves a power wheelchair if you meet these specific criteria:
- Home-Based Need: The mobility limitation must significantly impair your ability to perform “Mobility-Related Activities of Daily Living” (MRADLs)—such as toileting, feeding, dressing, or bathing—within your home. Medicare typically does not cover equipment intended solely for use outside the home or for leisure.
- Failure of Other Aids: A doctor must determine that you cannot safely use a cane, walker, or manual wheelchair to complete those daily tasks.
- Safe Operation: You (or a dedicated caregiver) must demonstrate the mental and physical capability to operate the power wheelchair safely.
The 45-Day Approval Process
To successfully secure coverage, you must follow a rigid timeline:
- Face-to-Face Examination: You must visit a doctor specifically to discuss your mobility needs. For power wheelchairs, this visit must occur within 45 days of the doctor writing the prescription.
- Certificate of Medical Necessity: Your physician must submit a formal written order to Medicare explaining why a power mobility device is required.
- Home Assessment: A Medicare-approved supplier must conduct an on-site evaluation of your home to ensure the doorways, surfaces, and space can accommodate the specific wheelchair model.
- Approved Suppliers: You must use a supplier enrolled in Medicare. If the supplier does not “accept assignment,” they may charge more than the Medicare-approved amount, increasing your out-of-pocket costs.
Comparison to Other Mobility Systems
If you are a resident of the UK or traveling abroad, you may notice that the financial structures differ significantly from the US Medicare system. For instance, the NHS operates on a long-term loan basis rather than a 80/20 split. You can learn more about these differences in our detailed breakdown of How much does an NHS wheelchair cost?
Furthermore, while Medicare focuses strictly on home-based medical necessity, many users find that their insurance doesn’t cover the lightweight, portable models they desire for travel. If you are exploring options outside of traditional Medicare coverage, you may want to look into Will insurance pay for an electric wheelchair? for a broader view of private insurance and supplemental plans.
For those in the UK looking for alternative ways to fund mobility equipment without high out-of-pocket expenses, there are various grants and schemes available. Check out our guide on How to get a free mobility scooter in the UK? for more information.
Summary Checklist for Medicare Users
- Eligibility: Must be for use in the home to perform ADLs.
- Cost: 80% covered by Medicare; 20% covered by you (after deductible).
- Timeline: Face-to-face exam must be within 45 days of the order.
- Replacement: Medicare typically covers a new wheelchair only once every 5 years.
