A common question we encounter is, “Does Medicare cover stairlifts?”. Unfortunately, the short answer is no, Medicare does not cover the installation of a stairlift.
Why Doesn’t Medicare Pay for Stairlifts?
The detailed explanation is somewhat more nuanced but ultimately the same. Medicare does not cover items that attach to your house, such as a stairlift. While Medicare may cover the cost of a wheelchair or scooter, it will not cover the cost of a ramp to get it in and out of the house. Similarly, Medicare may cover the cost of a hospital bed, but not the cost of a grab bar installed in the shower or toileting area. Essentially, if it attaches to the house, Medicare considers it a home improvement and therefore does not cover it. Consequently, Medicare supplemental insurance also does not cover stairlifts, as it follows Medicare’s mandate and definitions.
Medicare only covers “durable medical equipment” (DME), which includes items like wheelchairs, scooters, hospital beds, and patient lifts. However, Medicare does not consider a stairlift to be a “medical necessity”. A patient lift is different from a stairlift, and you can learn more about what Medicare considers a patient lift here.
Finding Other Funding Sources for Stairlifts
Although Medicare does not fund stairlifts, other public funding sources may be available. These include the Veteran Administration (VA), Medicaid, Long Term Care Insurance, and some grant programs. These programs typically require an evaluation by a VA doctor or an occupational therapist assigned by a Medicaid case manager. The process can involve several steps, so it’s best to start well before the need becomes urgent.
Why Stairlifts are Worth the Investment?
The good news is that stairlifts can be relatively inexpensive, and the return on investment is significant when considering the lifestyle and mobility benefits they provide. When compared to the costs associated with hospitalization after a fall or moving house, a stairlift can be a cost-effective solution.
Contact us today to set up your free consultation and learn more about stairlifts!
