Medicare Approved Recliners – Guide to Coverage and Benefits

If you’ve ever wondered whether Medicare can help you buy a recliner, you’re not alone. Many seniors think a comfy chair is a luxury, but in some cases it counts as medical equipment. Below we break down who qualifies, what the rules are, and how to move from wish list to covered item.

Who Can Get a Medicare Recliner?

Medicare covers a recliner only when a doctor writes a prescription that labels it as medically necessary. Typical scenarios include severe arthritis, chronic back pain, or limited mobility that makes getting in and out of a regular chair dangerous. The equipment must be part of a broader treatment plan, not just a “nice to have.” If you have a diagnosis that limits your ability to sit upright or stand without assistance, ask your physician if a recliner can reduce the risk of falls.

Another key point: the recliner must be a power‑assist model that helps with standing up. Manual recliners, even very supportive ones, usually don’t qualify. The device also needs to be supplied by a Medicare‑approved supplier, so you’ll have to work with a company that holds a Medicare provider number.

Steps to Secure Coverage

1. Get a prescription. Your doctor must document why a recliner is essential for your health. The note should include your diagnosis, functional limitations, and how the recliner will improve safety or pain management.

2. Choose a qualified supplier. Look for vendors that list Medicare Part B coverage on their site or can provide a supplier number. This avoids surprise bills later.

3. Submit the claim. The supplier usually handles the paperwork, sending the prescription and device details to Medicare. Keep a copy of everything for your records.

4. Check your benefits. Medicare Part B covers 80% of the approved cost after the annual deductible. You’ll be responsible for the remaining 20% plus any deductible you haven’t met.

5. Follow up. If the claim is denied, you can request a reconsideration. Often a denial is due to missing documentation, which you can correct with a clearer physician note.

Remember, the process can take a few weeks, so start early if you need the chair for an upcoming appointment or surgery recovery.

Even if Medicare doesn’t cover the entire price, many suppliers offer financing or rent‑to‑own plans that make a power recliner affordable. Check for state Medicaid programs or local veterans’ benefits too—some have separate equipment lists that include recliners.

When you finally have the chair, set it up safely. Place it near a sturdy wall or rail, test the power controls, and keep the area free of clutter. A well‑positioned recliner can become a key part of your daily routine, helping you relax after a hard day and reducing the strain on hips and knees.

Bottom line: Medicare can pay for a recliner, but only when it’s medically prescribed, powered for assistance, and sourced from an approved supplier. Talk to your doctor, gather the paperwork, and you’ll be on your way to a more comfortable, safer home environment.