Will Medicaid Pay For A Lift Chair? | Medicare ABC: Get Medicare Insurance Agents (2025)

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• May 7, 2025
• 3:25 pm
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Lift chairs are an essential mobility aid for individuals with certain medical conditions, especially seniors or people with disabilities. If you or a loved one is considering a lift chair and relies on Medicaid, you may be wondering: Will Medicaid pay for a lift chair? The answer depends on several factors, including your state’s Medicaid coverage and medical necessity requirements.

Understanding Lift Chairs and Their Medical Benefits

A lift chair is a recliner with a powerful lifting mechanism that tilts the base and back of the chair forward to assist the user in standing up or sitting down safely. These chairs are highly beneficial for individuals with:

• Severe arthritis or joint issues
• Neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s disease)
• Mobility impairments
• Post-surgical recovery needs

Because of these health benefits, lift chairs may be considered durable medical equipment (DME) under certain healthcare programs.

Will Medicaid Cover a Lift Chair?

Yes, Medicaid may pay for a lift chair, but coverage varies by state and is subject to medical necessity. In general, Medicaid programs that operate under Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers are more likely to cover lift chairs as part of in-home support.

Factors that Affect Medicaid Coverage

1. Medical Necessity: You must have a doctor’s prescription proving that the lift chair is essential for your mobility and daily activities.
2. Type of Medicaid Plan: Some Medicaid Managed Care Plans may cover lift chairs, while others may not.
3. State Waiver Programs: States like California, New York, and Texas may offer additional support for mobility aids under specific waivers.

How Can I Get a Lift Chair Through Medicaid?

To obtain a lift chair through Medicaid, follow these steps:

1. Consult Your Physician: Discuss your mobility limitations with your doctor, who can evaluate your eligibility and provide documentation.
2. Get a Prescription: Your doctor will need to write a prescription stating that the lift chair is medically necessary.
3. Contact a DME Provider: Work with a Medicaid-approved durable medical equipment supplier.
4. Apply Through Medicaid: Submit the required forms, prescription, and any additional documentation for review and approval.

Tip: Some state programs may require prior authorization. Always check with your local Medicaid office or caseworker.

How to Get a Lift Chair for Free?

If Medicaid doesn’t cover the full cost or you’re ineligible, you can explore these alternative options to obtain a lift chair at no cost:

• Non-Profit Organizations: Groups like the ALS Association, Muscular Dystrophy Association, or local senior centers may provide assistance.
• Veterans Benefits: Eligible veterans may receive a lift chair through the VA.
• Charity Programs: Organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, or church outreach programs sometimes offer free or low-cost mobility aids.
• State Assistive Technology Programs: Some states have lending programs that provide free or low-cost equipment to residents in need.

What Diagnosis Will Cover a Lift Chair?

Lift chairs are generally covered when prescribed for specific diagnoses, such as:

• Severe arthritis
• Muscle atrophy
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord injuries
• Post-hip or knee replacement recovery

Medicaid and physicians will evaluate whether the condition directly limits the individual’s ability to safely sit and stand without assistance.

Does Medicaid Pay for Power Chairs?

Yes, Medicaid may cover power wheelchairs, including power lift recliners, if:

• The patient cannot use a manual wheelchair safely.
• The device is deemed medically necessary by a physician.
• The supplier and patient meet Medicaid’s DME coverage guidelines.

Again, this is highly dependent on state regulations and whether the individual is part of a Medicaid waiver program.

Final Thoughts

While Medicaid can cover a portion—or in some cases, the full cost—of a lift chair, eligibility hinges on medical necessity and state-specific guidelines. Work closely with your healthcare provider, local Medicaid office, and approved DME providers to navigate the process effectively.

If you’re uncertain whether you qualify or need help navigating the paperwork, contact your local Medicaid office or speak to a Medicaid planning expert to explore your options.