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Pepsee Asked June 2018

Does insurance company reimburse family members for purchases?

I'm waiting for an appointment with the office of aging. They are going to change Mom's PPO coverage to a provider that covers this area (PA). Since Mom just moved here she can choose a different part c primary provider without a penalty. Her current one is from NJ and even tho they will pay in and out of network, no one will take it.

That's why she couldn't go to rehab. Grrrrr

But while this is being worked out, can I buy her a scooter and be reimbursed later if insurance approves Dr's recommendation?

Veronica91 Jun 2018
Like you Pepsee I am a real hazard with the scooters. I was also going to suggest Craigslist. I have seen several of them. If she is just going to use it in and around a nursing home one of the really cheap ones could work. Some companies offer a free trail too. They are actually quite heavy too if you were thinking of taking ferand cart in your car

Pepsee Jun 2018
Good idea CM, I will look into it. Maybe at least until after her first surgery.
Craigslist is definitely where I'll look. Renting one first might be a good idea, at least we'll see how much we actually use it.

She is great on them in the big stores. I, on the other hand, knocked down a Hostess display, friggin ring dings and yodels all over the place...Oy 😔

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Countrymouse Jun 2018
I wonder if you might be able to hire one, for now?

BarbBrooklyn Jun 2018
Look on Craigs list.

Also, make sure that mom still has the cognitive skills to use one. Taking her to a big box store and letting her use one of the power carts is a good way to assess this.

Pepsee Jun 2018
What a shame some slimy people have to ruin things for others who really need these services. It sounds like one has to loose a leg to be approved.

Mom needs it for shopping and getting in and around buildings. Ever since the stroke she has not been able to walk more then a few feet.

I'm taking her to her PCP tomorrow, I'll see what she says. If not I will just buy her one anyway. Just thought I'd give it a shot.

Thanks for taking the time to read and answer!

jjariz Jun 2018
99% chance that the answer is no for reimbursement

worriedinCali Jun 2018
You really need to find out if the new dr will even approve on and if insurance company will cover a scooter. Neither my MIL or my mom could get approved. MIL had idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis & 24/7 oxygen and Mom has COPD & fibromyalgia & 24/7 oxygen.

Guestshopadmin Jun 2018
Pepsee, the requirements to buy a scooter and get reimbursed by insurance, especially Medicare, got really strict due to the abuses of the system. It's really better to go through a company that is familiar with insurance paying for a scooter and see if they will take the insurance for her. I'd hate to have you pay and get nothing in return. Also, depending on where she wants to use it, some facilities have restrictions on use and some cities don't let you use on sidewalks or roads due to traffic hazards...

AlfredR Jun 2018
I don't know the answer, but it would probably be better if you gave mom the money and had her buy it. If they would reimburse they'd probably want proof that you mom bought the scooter.

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