Does Medicare pay for home safety changes in Colorado?
From MyIntel. Updated .
The short answer
Usually not. Original Medicare does not generally pay for grab bars, raised toilet seats, bath seats or changes to the home. It can cover some medical equipment, like walkers, canes and commode chairs, when a doctor orders it. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer extra benefits for bathroom safety items. In Colorado, people on certain Health First Colorado (Medicaid) waivers may qualify for a home modification benefit. Always check with your plan before you buy.
Original Medicare
Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment that a doctor or other provider orders for use at home, such as canes, walkers and commode chairs. Items seen as comfort or convenience, like grab bars, bath seats and raised toilet seats, are generally not covered. Changes to the home itself, like ramps or a walk-in shower, are not covered.
Medicare Advantage plans
Medicare Advantage plans can offer extra benefits that Original Medicare does not. Some include bathroom safety items or a home safety inspection. Benefits are different for every plan and can change each year, so call the number on the member card and ask what is covered.
Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
Colorado's Medicaid program has a Home Modification benefit for people enrolled in certain waivers, including the Elderly, Blind and Disabled (EBD) waiver. It can pay for things like ramps, bathroom changes and grab bars as part of a larger project. The state lists a $14,000 limit for the EBD waiver. A case manager handles the request, so start there.
HSA or FSA accounts
Some home safety items may qualify for HSA or FSA funds with a letter of medical necessity from a doctor. Check with your plan administrator before you buy.
What MyIntel does and does not do
MyIntel does not bill insurance or Medicare right now. We are happy to talk through your options, and our free online home check is a good way to see what may need attention first. Many of the most helpful changes cost little.
Common questions
Does Medicare cover grab bars?
Original Medicare generally does not, because grab bars are treated as a convenience item or a home change. Some Medicare Advantage plans include bathroom safety items, so check your plan.
Does Medicare cover a home safety assessment?
Coverage depends on your situation. Medicare can cover occupational therapy when it is medically necessary and ordered by a provider. Ask your doctor and your plan before you schedule.
Does MyIntel take Medicare?
No. MyIntel does not bill insurance or Medicare right now. Call us and we will talk through your options.
Sources
Questions about your home? Call (720) 989-1123 or send us a note.