Does Medicare Cover Shower Chairs?
Are shower chairs covered under Medicare?
No, shower chairs aren't typically covered under Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) because they're not considered medically necessary.
Medicare Advantage plans don’t typically cover shower chairs, but some plans may provide an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance that you can use to cover select items, which might include a shower chair.
Some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may provide coverage for certain home modifications that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as bathroom grab bars and air conditioners for beneficiaries who have asthma.
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Why isn’t a shower chair considered durable medical equipment (DME)?
Medicare Advantage Part B can help cover certain items as durable medical equipment DME) if it they meet requirements such as:
- The primary and customary use of the item is medical
- The item can be used in the home and is generally not useful to someone who doesn’t have an illness or injury
Shower chairs can be convenient and can decrease your chances of injury from falling in the shower. Some people may choose to buy a shower chair to increase safety and provide a protected area in the shower or bath.
Learn more about walk-in showers that come with a seat, and explore some popular manufacturers.
Though they are helpful, shower chairs do not meet the eligibility requirement of being medically required in order for Medicare to cover them.
We recommend speaking with your doctor directly for specific cost and coverage information.
Medicare Advantage plans can help cover other home health devices
Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private insurance companies as an alternative to Original Medicare and must cover everything that Part A and Part B covers.
Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover items that considered primary health-related benefits that are used to:
- Treat or prevent injuries or illness
- Compensate for physical impairments
- Reduce emergency medical care
- Address the psychological effects of injuries or illness
Some plans may offer services such as transportation to doctor’s offices, home delivered meals and bathroom grab bars if they meet the above criteria.
Though shower chairs may not be considered a primary health-related benefit, other types of coverage may be available from Medicare Advantage plans in your area that can help you live a healthier and more comfortable lifestyle.
Most Medicare Advantage plans offer prescription drug coverage. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also offer additional benefits, such as:
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Hearing coverage
- Health and wellness program benefits, such as free gym memberships
Call to speak with a licensed insurance agent and start comparing the benefits of Medicare Advantage plans available in your area.
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About the author
Christian Worstell is a licensed insurance agent and a Senior Staff Writer for MedicareAdvantage.com. He is passionate about helping people navigate the complexities of Medicare and understand their coverage options.
His work has been featured in outlets such as Vox, MSN, and The Washington Post, and he is a frequent contributor to health care and finance blogs.
Christian is a graduate of Shippensburg University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He currently lives in Raleigh, NC.
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