Step 1

Visit with your physician for a face-to-face examination and discuss your mobility challenges and options. Medicare and most insurances require a face-to-face examination with your physician prior to writing a prescription for a power mobility device.

During your exam, your physician must first consider the use of cane, walker, and manual wheelchair before considering a scooter or power wheelchair. If your physician feels that your mobility needs must be resolved with a scooter or power wheelchair, this must be supported in your medical records and a prescription can be written. A Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist may also conduct an additional assessment if your physician deems it necessary.

Step 2

Have your physician fax or mail the written prescription and medical records to your Mobility Supplier. The Mobility Supplier must receive the written prescription and supporting documentation (medical records) within 45 days from the date of your face-to-face examination.

Once received, the Mobility Supplier will work with you and your physician to determine the appropriate scooter or power wheelchair model for your needs.

If you have Traditional Medicare as your insurance and are looking for a mobility scooter, standard power wheelchair, or manual wheelchair, Medicare's Competitive Bidding program may now require you to obtain your equipment from certain suppliers.

Find your mobility supplier.

Request to be contacted by a medical supplier.

Step 3

Your Mobility Supplier will conduct a home assessment to ensure that you have adequate access and maneuverability space.

For Traditional Medicare the primary reason for a power mobility device must be to compensate for your mobility limitations within your home and take into consideration your ability to perform activities of daily living including toileting, grooming, bathing, dressing and eating. Therefore, it is critical to determine if your home environment will support the use of a scooter or power wheelchair.

Step 4

Your Mobility Supplier will order the power mobility device prescribed by your physician or treating practitioner, deliver it to your home and instruct you on how to operate it.