A Guide to Pediatric Powerchairs

Does My Child Qualify for a Pediatric Powerchair?

The first step in helping your child regain his or her mobility is to schedule a face-to-face examination with his or her pediatrician or physical therapist. They conduct an in-person evaluation to determine if your child would benefit from a power chair. Depending on the severity of his or her condition, your child may qualify for a complex rehab pediatric power chair. If the pediatrician or physical therapist thinks your child qualifies, they will write a prescription for a power chair. The prescription must be sent to a local Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider. In addition to the prescription, the DME provider needs a copy of your child’s medical records. The DME provider must receive all documentation within 45 days from the date of your face-to-face evaluation.

Does Medicare Cover Pediatric Powerchairs?

If your child has Medicare, Medicare may cover the cost of a pediatric power wheelchair if your child qualifies. A power chair is covered only when it is deemed as medically necessary for the individual. To find out if your child qualifies for Medicare coverage of a pediatric electric wheelchair, you must schedule a face-to-face exam with your child’s pediatrician. They evaluate your child’s mobility needs and must first consider the use of a cane, walker, manual wheelchair and mobility scooter before considering a pediatric powerchair. It’s important to have documentation from the face-to-face evaluation and a prescription from your child’s pediatrician if you want Medicare to help pay for a power chair. Get more information about Medicare pediatric powerchair coverage.

Does Medicaid Cover Pediatric Power Chairs?

If your child has Medicaid, Medicaid may cover the cost of a pediatric electric wheelchair. Your child must meet eligibility requirements for your specific state’s Medicaid program. Some states fully cover pediatric wheelchairs, and some states only partially cover the cost. We recommend contacting your local Medicaid office to obtain more information on eligibility requirements. You will need to schedule an appointment to fill out paperwork. You will also need to bring documents, such as a photo ID and proof of your income. Get more information on pediatric powerchair Medicaid coverage.

Choosing the Right Pediatric Power Wheelchair

When choosing the best pediatric wheelchair for your child, it’s important to consider your child’s needs. All mobility devices have maximum weight capacities. To ensure your child’s mobility device operates at peak performance, choose a power chair that offers a weight capacity that is greater than your child’s body weight. When choosing the right wheelchair for your child, consider how and where the pediatric power chair will be used. Some wheelchairs are designed for use in the home, and it’s important that whatever mobility device you choose for your child, that the device fits easily through the doors and door frames in your home. Click the link to learn more about choosing the best pediatric powerchair for your child.