Does Medicare Cover Walk In Showers

Navigating the waters of Medicare coverage can sometimes feel like trying to shower without slipping—tricky and a bit precarious. In this guide, we’ll dive into whether Medicare policies make room for walk-in showers, an important consideration for those looking to enhance their home for accessibility.

Understanding Medicare Coverage Basics

Medicare, the U.S. government’s health insurance program for people age 65 and older, as well as for some younger people with disabilities, primarily covers medically necessary services and equipment. It’s like having a safety net, but only for specific tightropes.

What Does Medicare Typically Cover?

• Hospital Insurance (Part A): Takes care of inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care, and some home health care.
• Medical Insurance (Part B): Handles certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services.

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Coverage

Under Part B, Medicare covers durable medical equipment (DME) when prescribed by a doctor for home use, think of wheelchairs and walkers but does it cover walk-in showers?

Does Medicare Cover Walk In Showers?

Walk-in showers are often marketed as a must-have for seniors looking to retrofit their homes for better mobility and safety. However, Medicare doesn’t directly cover the installation of walk-in showers. As Henry Beltran, our spirited leader, puts it:

“Medicare keeps it more clinical, unfortunately. They cover what keeps you moving, not necessarily what moves you to a better living standard.”

Medicare will cover the medically necessary aspects that can be part of a shower, like a hospital-grade bath seat or a safety handle. Still, the full setup? That’s on your dime.

Why Not?

Here’s the rub: Medicare deems walk-in showers as home modifications rather than necessary medical equipment. They see it as sprucing up the place rather than gearing it up medically.

Potential Workarounds

If you’re set on modifying your bathroom for accessibility, there are a few paths you might consider:

• Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C): Some plans may offer additional benefits, including allowances for home modifications.
• State Medicaid Programs: Depending on your state, there may be waivers available that cover home modifications for accessibility.
• Community Organizations: Various non-profits and community groups offer grants and assistance for seniors looking to make their homes safer.

What’s the Bottom Line?

While Medicare might leave you a bit wet with their coverage, there are ways to find funding. It’s like looking for a lost soap bar in the bath—you might need to splash around a bit, but you’ll get there.

For more detailed coverage specifics and to explore your options, visit Medicare Coverage where you can find extensive resources to navigate these slippery slopes.

Remember: Always check with a healthcare professional or Medicare advisor to confirm the latest updates and changes to coverage policies. Our team at Medicare Advisors Insurance Group LLC is here to help towel you off with the information you need to make the best decisions for your situation.