Medicare Scooter Coverage: How to Qualify and Save

If you’re asking “does Medicare cover mobility scooters,” you’re not alone.

Many people discover that the right scooter can restore independence—but understanding Medicare scooter coverage is the key to getting one approved and keeping your costs down.

In this guide, you’ll learn which mobility scooters are covered by Medicare, the exact criteria to qualify, what you’ll pay, and how to find Medicare-approved scooters near you. We’ll also share a simple step-by-step process and common mistakes to avoid so your claim gets approved the first time.

Does Medicare Cover Mobility Scooters?

Yes—under Medicare Part B, power-operated vehicles (often called mobility scooters) are considered durable medical equipment (DME) when they’re medically necessary for use in your home. If you meet the criteria and use a Medicare-enrolled supplier, Medicare generally pays 80% of the approved amount after the Part B deductible; you pay the remaining 20% coinsurance. Using a supplier that “accepts assignment” can significantly lower what you owe out of pocket.

Coverage hinges on medical necessity and safety. Your doctor must document that a cane or walker won’t meet your needs, that you can safely operate a scooter, and that the device will help you perform essential daily activities in your home (like moving from room to room, preparing meals, or using the bathroom). In some cases, a power wheelchair may be more appropriate; in others, a scooter (also called a power-operated vehicle or POV) fits best.

Medicare may require prior authorization for certain power mobility devices, and documentation must support an in-home evaluation. The scooter must come from a Medicare-enrolled DMEPOS supplier; if the supplier isn’t enrolled, Medicare won’t pay. Scooters are typically provided as a capped rental (monthly) until they convert to ownership after continuous rental—your supplier will explain how this works in your area.

Who Qualifies for Medicare Mobility Scooters?

To be approved for a scooter under Medicare Part B, you generally must meet all of the following:

A face-to-face examination with your treating provider that shows a medical condition substantially limits your ability to move around your home and complete activities of daily living.
Evidence that a cane, crutches, or walker is insufficient, and that a scooter will improve your ability to function safely in the home.
You can safely transfer on and off the scooter, operate the tiller/controls, and maintain postural stability while seated.
Your home can accommodate the device (e.g., adequate doorway width, maneuvering space), and you will use it primarily in the home. Outdoor use is fine, but Medicare coverage decisions are based on in-home need.
An order (prescription) from your doctor and documentation supporting medical necessity. In some cases, prior authorization is required before delivery.

If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, your plan must cover at least what Original Medicare covers, but it may have its own prior authorization rules, network suppliers, and copays. Always call your plan before ordering.

What Will It Cost?

Here’s how costs for Medicare mobility scooters usually break down:

Part B deductible: You must first meet your annual Part B deductible before coinsurance applies.
20% coinsurance: After the deductible, Medicare typically pays 80% of the approved amount; you pay 20% when using a supplier that accepts assignment.
Rental vs. purchase: Most scooters start as a capped rental, with monthly coinsurance. After a set rental period (often 13 continuous months), ownership may transfer to you. Maintenance and repairs are covered according to Medicare rules once you own the equipment.
Supplier matters: If the supplier doesn’t accept assignment, you could pay more. Always ask before you commit.
Medigap and secondary insurance: A Medigap plan may cover some or all of your 20% coinsurance; Medicaid or other secondary coverage may also help if you’re eligible.

How to Find Medicare-Approved Scooters Near Me

Searching “medicare approved scooters near me” or “mobility scooters near me” is a good start, but the most reliable method is Medicare’s official Supplier Directory.

Use the Medicare Supplier Directory

Go to Medicare.gov and click “Find suppliers and medical equipment.”
Enter your ZIP code and select the equipment category for power-operated vehicles or power mobility devices.
Filter for suppliers that accept assignment to limit your out-of-pocket costs.

Call Ahead With Smart Questions

“Do you carry Medicare mobility scooters that meet my doctor’s order?”
“Do you accept Medicare assignment and handle prior authorization?”
“Do you stock models I can test and fit at your location or at home?”
“What is your delivery timeline and who provides training?”

Tip: In some areas, you may have both local storefronts and mail-order DME suppliers. A local fitter can ensure the scooter suits your home layout and your body mechanics.

Step-by-Step: Getting a Mobility Scooter Covered by Medicare

Talk to your doctor. Describe what you can’t do at home because of mobility limits (e.g., can’t reach the bathroom in time, can’t prepare meals).
Schedule the face-to-face exam. Bring a list of your daily challenges, assistive devices you’ve tried, and any falls or safety concerns.
Complete any functional assessments. Your provider may coordinate a physical or occupational therapy evaluation.
Get the written order and documentation. Ensure the order specifies a power-operated vehicle (scooter) and includes medical necessity details.
Choose a Medicare-enrolled supplier. Use the Supplier Directory and confirm they accept assignment and handle prior authorization if required.
Home assessment and fitting. Verify doorway widths, turning radius, and charging access. Test-drive models if possible.
Delivery, training, and follow-up. Learn safe operation, charging, and maintenance. Keep all paperwork for your records.

Real-Life Example

Joan, 72, has COPD and osteoarthritis. She can walk short distances with a walker, but she can’t make it from her bedroom to the kitchen without stopping and becomes unsafe while turning. Her doctor documents that a walker is insufficient and that a scooter would allow her to prepare meals and access the bathroom safely. Joan selects a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment. Her scooter is approved, delivered on a rental basis, and after she meets the Part B deductible, she pays the 20% coinsurance each month until it converts to ownership.

Common Reasons Claims Are Denied (and How to Fix Them)

Insufficient documentation: The most common reason. Fix by ensuring your provider’s notes explicitly show why lesser devices (walker/cane) don’t meet your needs and how a scooter helps in-home activities.
No in-home need documented: Medicare decisions focus on home use. Have your doctor tie limitations to specific rooms/tasks.
Supplier not enrolled or no assignment: Use the Medicare Supplier Directory and confirm assignment to avoid unexpected costs.
Safety concerns: If your balance, cognition, or strength make scooter operation unsafe, Medicare may deny. Ask about alternative equipment or training.
Prior authorization missing: Work with your supplier to submit documentation before delivery when required.

FAQs About Medicare Scooter Coverage

Are mobility scooters covered by Medicare Advantage?

Yes, but you’ll need to follow your plan’s rules for prior authorization and in-network suppliers. Call the number on your card to verify coverage and costs.

Can I buy a scooter online and get reimbursed?

It’s risky. Many online sellers aren’t Medicare-enrolled suppliers, which means Medicare won’t pay. If you buy first, you could be responsible for the full cost.

How often can I replace a scooter?

Medicare generally follows a “reasonable useful lifetime” of about five years. Replacement sooner may be possible if the device is lost, stolen, irreparably damaged, or your medical needs change.

Can I use my scooter outdoors?

Yes, but Medicare coverage is justified by your in-home needs. Your provider should document how the scooter improves activities of daily living at home.

What about repairs and maintenance?

Medicare typically covers necessary repairs when you own the scooter and used a Medicare-enrolled supplier. Coinsurance may apply.

Quick Checklist Before You Order

Confirm medical necessity with your doctor and complete a face-to-face exam.
Ensure the order specifies a power-operated vehicle (scooter).
Choose a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment.
Ask about prior authorization and rental-to-ownership details.
Verify your Part B deductible, coinsurance, and any Medigap coverage.
Measure doorways and plan for charging space at home.

When you understand how Medicare scooter coverage works—and you partner with the right doctor and supplier—you dramatically improve your chances of fast approval, fair pricing, and the freedom to move safely at home. If you’re ready, start by calling your provider today and use the Medicare Supplier Directory to locate the best Medicare-approved scooters near you.