Advertisements for motorized wheelchairs and power scooters are all over the television set, and in magazines. They boast of low prices, and some of them claim to be able to give away these items for free. But that is if the person in need of the device qualifies for the free wheel chair or scooter. So, the big question is, who qualifies for these free mobility aids?

If you have Medicare, you do not automatically qualify for a motorized scooter or electric wheelchair. You have to have a doctor prescribe one for you, so be careful of sales people that are too eager to make the sell, and tell you there is no need for a prescription. The doctor is now allowed to prescribe a motorized wheelchair or electric scooter for usage exclusively outside the home. This is one of the limitations to getting one from Medicare. It is important that you demonstrate a need inside your home for the scooter or chair. The physician also will not prescribe a mobility aid if it is not a dire need.

Motorized chairs can be rented through Medicare. You can rent the device for up to 10 months after paying your deductible to Medicare. As of the ninth month, you will be sent an option to purchase your wheel chair. If you want to keep the electric wheelchair for good, Medicare will pay three more payments and then it is yours permanently. The maintenance of your mobility device is up to you, but Medicare will cover up to 80 percent of any repairs needed. If you do not want the device permanently, Medicare will make just 15 payments total and then it is yours as long as you need it. You must pay a maintenance fee every six months, eighty percent of which is covered by Medicare.

Some other coverage limits include:

Weakness in your upper body that would require the need for an electronic wheel chair You cannot walk under your own power You are capable of getting in and out of the electric wheelchair, and do it safely You have to stay in a chair or bed most of the day You have the need for the mobility device in order to move about freely inside your own home

If you have a need for a motorized mobility device, and are on Medicare, speak with your family physician about your need. They will be able to answer your questions completely, and instruct you as to how to obtain a mobility device of your own.