Question: My dad needs an adjustable bed to help with his mobility and back problems. Would Medicare cover this?
Answer: Medicare covers adjustable hospital beds as durable medical equipment under Part B. To qualify for an adjustable bed, you must have a qualifying medical condition requiring unique positioning that’s impossible to achieve in a standard bed. Some examples are conditions that need unique positioning for pain relief, such as COPD, spinal injuries or severe arthritis.
In addition, you will need a prescription from your health care provider for your hospital bed. With Medicare only, you can expect to pay 80% of the cost of the bed, which can range from $500 to $30,000 depending on several factors and the features needed. A Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan can help pay for or lower the costs associated with an adjustable hospital bed.