Can you get help with a mobility bed? Your guide to funding and options

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mobility challenges affect millions of older adults, often requiring specialized equipment. The good news is, you can get help with a mobility bed by understanding the different funding pathways and eligibility rules that are in place to support those in need.

Quick Summary

Yes, securing financial assistance for a mobility bed is possible through various avenues like Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans' benefits, as long as a documented medical necessity for the equipment is established by a healthcare provider.

Key Points

• Medicare Coverage Requires Medical Necessity: Medicare Part B will cover 80% of the cost of a hospital-grade adjustable bed, but only if it is prescribed by a doctor for a specific medical condition like severe arthritis or respiratory issues.

• Medicaid Provides State-Specific Assistance: For low-income individuals, Medicaid offers varying levels of coverage for medically necessary adjustable beds, often through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.

• Veterans Can Secure Benefits Through the VA: The Department of Veterans Affairs will provide a hospital bed at home for veterans with documented mobility impairments, as prescribed by a VA physician.

• Non-profits Offer Grants and Loans: Charitable organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association, FODAC, and local Lions Clubs provide equipment loan programs, grants, and free or low-cost refurbished equipment.

• Always Use an Approved Supplier for Insurance: To ensure coverage, you must obtain your mobility bed from a Durable Medical Equipment supplier that is enrolled with and accepts assignment from Medicare or Medicaid.

• Consumer Beds Are Not Covered by Medicare: Medicare covers only medical-grade hospital beds, not luxury, comfort-focused adjustable beds from consumer brands that lack specific therapeutic features.

Navigating Medicare for mobility bed coverage

For many seniors, Medicare is the first place to look for assistance. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary Durable Medical Equipment (DME), which can include an adjustable hospital bed for use in the home. However, there are crucial conditions and guidelines to meet:

• Medical Necessity: You must receive a prescription from your doctor stating that the hospital-grade bed is medically necessary to treat your condition. Common qualifying conditions include severe arthritis, respiratory issues like COPD, cardiac conditions, or spinal cord injuries that require specific positioning.
• Original Medicare (Part B): If approved, Original Medicare typically covers 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for the bed after you have met your annual Part B deductible. You are responsible for the remaining 20% coinsurance.
• Rental vs. Purchase: For many types of hospital beds, Medicare prefers a 13-month rental period. If you use the bed continuously for 13 months, the supplier must transfer ownership to you.
• Approved Suppliers: You must rent or purchase the bed from a supplier who is enrolled in and accepts Medicare assignment. Using a non-approved supplier could leave you responsible for the entire cost.
• What's Not Covered: It's important to know that Medicare will not cover a consumer-grade adjustable bed—the kind advertised for comfort with features like massage functions or designer headboards. The coverage is strictly for medical-grade equipment.

Exploring Medicaid and State-based assistance

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program designed for low-income individuals and families. While rules and coverage vary by state, Medicaid can cover hospital-grade adjustable beds when deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor.

Key points for Medicaid coverage:

• Income Requirements: Eligibility is based on income and other factors that differ from state to state.
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers: Many states offer HCBS waivers that provide assistance for medical equipment and home modifications to help individuals live at home instead of an institutional setting.
• State-specific Programs: You should check with your local state Medicaid office or an Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to understand the specific programs and waivers available where you live.

Veterans' benefits for mobility beds

For veterans and their surviving spouses, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides assistance with durable medical equipment, including hospital beds.

How to get help through the VA:

1. Doctor's Prescription: A VA physician must prescribe the bed and provide clinical evidence to support the medical need.
2. Prosthetics Service: The request is processed through the VA's Prosthetics Service, which handles assistive devices for veterans.
3. Aid and Attendance Program: Some veterans who are homebound or require the aid of another person for daily tasks may qualify for the Aid and Attendance program, which provides additional financial assistance that can be used for medical equipment.

Nonprofit organizations and community resources

If you don't qualify for government assistance or need help with out-of-pocket costs, many non-profits can bridge the gap. These organizations often provide equipment directly, offer grant programs, or operate loan closets where you can borrow items.

• Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC): A charity that provides refurbished medical equipment, including hospital beds, for free or at a very low cost.
• Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA): Offers an Equipment Assistance Grant Program to help those with neuromuscular diseases access DME.
• Lions Clubs International: Many local Lions Clubs operate equipment loan closets with a variety of medical devices available to borrow for free or a minimal cost.
• Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): These nationwide agencies can connect seniors and caregivers with local support resources for medical equipment.

Comparing pathways for mobility bed assistance

This table provides a quick overview of the primary methods for obtaining assistance with a mobility bed.

Funding Source	Eligibility	How it Works	Your Financial Responsibility
Medicare Part B	Age 65+ or certain disabilities; bed is medically necessary & prescribed.	Covers 80% of approved amount for hospital-grade beds from approved suppliers.	20% coinsurance + annual Part B deductible.
Medicaid	Low-income individuals and families.	Varies by state; covers medically necessary hospital beds, sometimes through waivers.	Varies by state; may cover 100% for eligible individuals.
VA Benefits	Veterans with medically documented mobility impairment.	VA physician prescribes the bed, processed through the Prosthetics Service.	Varies; often minimal to no cost for approved equipment.
Non-profits	Varies by organization; may be based on diagnosis, income, or location.	Equipment loan programs, grants, or refurbished equipment at low cost.	Often free or low cost, but can vary.

Other financial options and considerations

Beyond primary funding sources, there are other avenues to explore that can reduce the financial burden of a mobility bed:

1. Durable Medical Equipment Recycling Programs: Many communities have programs that accept donations of gently used medical equipment. You can find high-quality, reconditioned beds at a much lower cost or for free.
2. Tax Deductions: If you pay for the bed out-of-pocket, it may be deductible as a medical expense on your federal tax return, especially if recommended by a physician.
3. Rent Before Buying: If your condition is temporary, renting a hospital bed can be a more cost-effective solution than purchasing. Medicare also starts with a rental period, and this can be a good way to test the equipment.

Ultimately, the path to getting help with a mobility bed involves a combination of a clear medical need, proper documentation from your physician, and exploring the full range of government, non-profit, and community resources available. Don't hesitate to work with your doctor and a DME supplier to navigate the process and find the best solution for your needs.

For more detailed information on Medicare's hospital bed coverage, you can visit the official CMS website at https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/ncd.aspx?NCDId=227.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step to get help with a mobility bed?

The first step is to consult with your primary care physician. They must determine if an adjustable bed is medically necessary for your condition and provide a prescription or Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) to document your need.

Does Medicare cover consumer-grade adjustable beds?

No, Medicare does not cover consumer-grade adjustable beds, like those with massage features or designer aesthetics. Coverage is reserved for hospital-grade beds that are classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME) for medical purposes.

Can I get a mobility bed if I have low income?

Yes, if you have low income, you may be eligible for assistance through your state's Medicaid program. Eligibility and coverage details vary, so contact your state's Medicaid office for specific information.

Are there options for veterans to get a mobility bed?

Yes, veterans with a documented mobility impairment may be eligible for a hospital bed through the VA. Your VA physician must prescribe the equipment based on your medical needs.

How can I find a non-profit that offers assistance?

You can start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or searching for national and local charities online, such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association or Lions Clubs International, which may offer equipment loan programs or grants.

What is the difference between renting and buying a mobility bed with Medicare?

With Medicare, expensive DME like hospital beds is typically rented for 13 months, after which ownership is transferred to you. During the rental period, the supplier is responsible for repairs.

Do I need to use a specific supplier for my mobility bed?

Yes, to ensure coverage through Medicare or Medicaid, you must use a Durable Medical Equipment supplier that is enrolled in and accepts assignment from your insurance program.

Can I claim the cost of a mobility bed on my taxes?

Yes, if you pay for a medically necessary mobility bed out-of-pocket, you may be able to deduct the cost as a medical expense on your federal income tax return. Consult a tax professional for guidance.