This post is by no means a comprehensive list of policies, products covered orthe amounts that insurances pay. As a matter of fact the rules and policies of insurance companies including Medicare keep changing and evolving over time. You should contact your insurance companies for the latest information, just to be sure. Most of the information here hasn't changed in a while so its relatively reliable.

Each insurance company has their own list of items they cover for purchase or even sometimes for rentals. The amounts and products further vary according to the plan or policy the customer has. Here are some things that you should keep in mind when considering billing the insurance for a purchase or rental.

1. Call the insurance company first to confirm that they cover the product.
2. Almost all insurance companies including Medicare will require a precription for the item.
3. In some cases they might need more supporting documentation. Contact the insurance to find out what they might be.
4. If its a temporary condition (like a sprain or surgery) then most insurances might not purchase the item instead they might rent the item for you. Esp workman's compensation.
5. Most insurances take anywhere from 3 - 8 weeks to approve and send payment. So, plan your finances accordingly.
6. Maintain and save your records.
7. Document and remember to record the names or IDs of people you speak with at insurance companies.


Medicare

Medicare is great. They pay 80% of all items and 20% is picked up by the secondary insurance or if none exists then the customer. Medicare is specific about what they pay for and how much they pay. Some products, Medicare will pay as a purchase but others they will pay rental upto 13 months and after that it belongs to you. If you, by any chance stop using the product before the 13 months are up then you have to return the item back to the provider. On some products they might only pay partially and you might have to pay the rest. Below you will find a list of most commonly billed items.

Lift chairs - I believe they only pay upto $356.19 or somthing close to it towards a purchase of a lift chair.
Power Chair - They are covered, only towards a purchase.
Wheelchair - They are covered. It might also be a rental.
Hospital Bed - They are covered. Also this is a rental for 13 months and then it belongs to you.
Oxygen - They pay upto 36 months i think.
Canes - They are covered.
Crutches - They are covered.
Walkers - They are covered.
Scooters - They are covered.
3 in 1 commodes - They are covered.
Nebulizers - They are covered.
Air Mattresses - They are covered.
Gel Cushions - They are covered.
Gel Mattresses - They are covered.

There are plenty more products. There is a whole book that shows what products they cover, can't list them all here. If you have a particular product you are curious about then you are more than welcome to ask us. Comment or email or call us.

Medicare often requires supporting documents from the doctor's office, so don't be surprised if it takes just a little longer to get your product. Often, the doctor's offices are so busy that it take them a little time to respond to requests. I have had requests fulfilled in less than 5 mins and sometimes it takes upto 5 days (esp in scenarios where the doctor is out of town or only comes in once a week.) Have a little patience. Not much else you can do. A lot of times, if it they are backed up, you can simply pay them a visit and they can take care of it right then.

This is just a brief overview. Hope this helps.

Regards.