Be a smart consumer when it comes to buying wheelchairs, ramps, and stair lifts. Here are some tips to help you get the best possible equipment at the lowest price:

• Ask for a referral to an occupational or physical therapist (OT or PT) and for the names of reputable local vendors, preferably with CRTS staff (certified rehab technology supplier).
• Shop at a medical equipment provider, sometimes called a rehabilitation technology or assistive technology supplier.
• Ask if the vendor participates in Medicare or Medicaid if you are a beneficiary.
• Be sure the vendor is accredited by RESNA, the Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America.

Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans cover prescribed wheelchairs, ramps and lifts to some extent. Be prepared to face rejection the first time you submit a claim. But keep trying; insurers respond to persistence. Here’s how to bolster your case:

• Check insurance coverage and restrictions, including required paperwork, such as a doctor’s prescription and pre-approval.
• Organize the information required for reimbursement, such as the nature and onset of your disability, employment history, family gross income and monthly expenses.
• Prepare a justification statement if required. Tell your health-care professional to ask the Society for the Appeal Letters for Insurance toolkit. This toolkit contains model letters that meet standard requirements for insurance claims.
• Check Medicare coverage. You can maximize your benefits by using a medical supplier (vendor) who agrees to accept the Medicare-approved amount as payment in full. You generally pay your 20% co-pay and any remaining Medicare Part B deductible. Non-participating suppliers do not have to accept assignment. Their charges may be higher and you will also have to wait for Medicare to reimburse you.
• For Medicaid, check coverage with your state Medicaid office. Find the number in the State Government section of your phone directory, probably under Health Services or Health and Human Services (names vary by state). Or call an MS Navigator® at 1-800-344-4867.
• Check your vendor’s return policy and your insurance claims appeal process. Keep meticulous records. Save all letters and notes of phone conversations. If it comes to it, follow the appeals process, and complete all the steps on time.

Secondhand equipment can cost much less than the original price of new equipment (ramps, Stairlifts). It can also be the best way to acquire backups or special-use wheels. Secondhand may even be a smart choice for a primary chair—if you don’t meet your insurance plan’s criteria but need the help that wheels provide.

• Start your search through a good medical equipment vendor such as Bathe Safe, we have alot of used equipment that we certify.
• Ask us to price out a new stairlift or ramp vs a used stairlift.
• We buy back many stairlifts and then make sure they are in good working order for someone who needs it!

• If mobility will help you find or keep employment, you may be eligible for a grant from your state’s vocational rehabilitation agency.
• Call an MS Navigator® at 1-800-344-4867 for referrals to foundations or agencies, such as Easter Seals.