Medicare Part B can cover a medically necessary wheelchair or power scooter for use at home. These are durable medical equipment. Convenience or trouble getting around outdoors alone is not enough to qualify.

What Does Medicare Require?

For a power wheelchair or scooter, you need a face-to-face examination and a written prescription from a treating provider. The record must support that the equipment is medically necessary.

Medicare generally evaluates whether a mobility limitation affects activities in the home and whether a less complex device, such as a cane, walker, or manual wheelchair, would meet the need safely.

Certain power wheelchairs need Medicare’s approval before you receive them, called prior authorization. The supplier usually sends the request and supporting documents to Medicare.

The equipment must fit and work in your home, and you must be able to use it safely under the rules for that type of device. Some devices allow for help from a caregiver. Scooters, manual wheelchairs, and power wheelchairs have different requirements. Medicare does not automatically cover a more advanced model just because you prefer it.

For example, explain to the clinician why getting from the bedroom to the bathroom remains unsafe despite a cane or walker. That helps the clinician assess your everyday needs at home; difficulty covering long distances at a shopping center alone does not.

What Will You Pay?

After the Part B deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount when the supplier accepts Medicare’s approved amount as full payment, called accepting assignment. Medicare may require you to buy or rent it, or give you a choice, depending on the equipment.

Both the treating provider and equipment supplier must be enrolled in Medicare. Ask the supplier whether it accepts assignment for the entire rental period.

What About Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage must cover medically necessary equipment covered by Original Medicare, but it may require prior authorization and an in-network supplier. Obtain plan approval before delivery.

Start with the treating provider and describe the tasks you cannot safely complete at home. Before delivery, ask the supplier to confirm which equipment was ordered, whether any required approval is in place, whether it fits your home, and what you will pay. Avoid purchasing from an advertisement before the coverage assessment.

Medicare policy sources last checked: October 8, 2026.