The hospital beds, if basically needed for the comfort and safety of patients undergoing the recovering process at home, might create problems for the wallet. Fortunately, most insurance plans—including Medicare—may cover either a part or all of the cost if the Medical Grade Hospital Bed for sale is deemed medically necessary. So, here is what you need to know about most instances of insurance coverage of hospital beds.
- When Does Insurance Cover a Hospital Bed?
Most traditional insurers, Medicare and private alike, require a few prerequisites before they will approve covers:
- A doctor’s prescription that the hospital bed is medically necessary.
- Documentation that presents the patient’s condition, say, compromised mobility, severe arthritis, COPD, recovery from surgery, etc.
- Proof that the standard bed would be unsafe or impractical for such a patient; for instance, regular bed may require significant assistance in sitting or standing, the patient may be prone to falls, may require repeated and precise adjustments in positioning that the regular bed cannot offer.
Note: Typically, insurance is meant to cover rentals during short-term needs and purchases for long-term conditions.
- Medicare and Hospital Beds
Medicare Part B- Durable Medical Equipment Coverage
- Covers 80% of the Medicare-approved cost once the deductible has been paid.
- This coverage applies toward rental as well as the purchase of the hospital bed, depending on the medical necessity.
- Use only a supplier recognized by Medicare.
What Medicare Will Not Cover?
- Used Hospital bed for Sale used merely for convenience (that is, without documented medical need).
- Deluxe options such as an ultra-premium mattress, which are greater than what constitutes basic adjustment features.
Tip: Search the Medicare “Medicare.gov” supplier directory to find eligible suppliers.
- Private Insurance & Medicaid
Private insurers, such as Blue Cross and Aetna, often follow the Medicare rules but might have a separate approval process.
Medicaid coverage depends upon the state, but it usually includes hospital beds for eligible clients.
What to Do:
✔ Call your insurer to check on requirements.
✔ Ask if pre-authorization is required.
✔ Check if they have preferred suppliers.
- How to Get Approved: Step-by-Step
- Confer with the patient’s doctor to establish medical necessity.
- Obtain a detailed prescription (including specifics such as bed type: semi-electric, full-electric).
- Select supplier approved by Medicare/insurance (if applicable).
- Submit claim along with pertinent documents (supporting documentation from doctors, addressing diagnosis).
Watch your back—denials from insurers can often be appealed if you provide more documentation.
- What If Insurance Denies Coverage?
- Appeal by submitting further medical documentation.
- Look into options for financial assistance from nonprofit organizations such as ALS Association or local charities.
- Search for options to rent instead of purchase to cut cost.
Final Tips for Buyers
- Check on coverage before the surprise happens!
- Keep all the paperwork handy, from prescriptions to communications from insurers.
- Compare suppliers—some even file insurance claims on your behalf.
Need Help with Insurance Approval?
We work with Medicare and private insurance providers—contact us for assistance in securing coverage!