Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage plans cover walkers, but only if a walker is medically necessary and a healthcare professional prescribes one for you.

A walker is a piece of equipment (mobility aid) that helps people avoid falls and trips when they walk.A walker may be necessary during recovery from surgery, after an injury, or for individuals with conditions that affect mobility or balance.

If your doctor or healthcare professional has prescribed a walker as a medically necessary aid, Medicare Part B, or if you have Medicare Part C, your Medicare Advantage plan will cover much of the cost.

Read on for more information about Medicare coverage for walkers.

Walkers are a type of durable medical equipment covered by Medicare. Depending on the type of walker you need and the length of time you need it, you can rent or purchase a walker.

Medicare Part B covers 80% of the approved rental or purchase cost of your walker after you meet your annual deductible, which is $240 in 2024.

Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans also cover walkers. Still, the exact amount covered will depend on the specific Medicare Advantage plan you have.

Many types of walkers are available. Medicare covers walkers that are medically necessary and prescribed by your doctor or healthcare professional.

Walkers are durable medical equipment, and Medicare covers this type of equipment if it meets the following criteria:

  • It can withstand repeated use — it’s durable.
  • It can be used for an approved medical reason.
  • It’s generally only used by someone who is injured or ill.
  • It may be used in your home.
  • It may be expected to last at least 3 years.

Your doctor or healthcare professional can help you find a walker. You can also use this tool from Medicare to find locations in your ZIP code that rent or sell walkers.

Your doctor or healthcare professional can help you determine how much your walker may cost. The amount you pay for a Medicare-covered walker may depend on things like:

  • what, if any, other insurance coverage you may have
  • costs of medical appointments and services related to getting a walker
  • if your doctor and the service providing the walker accept Medicare assignment
  • your location and where you get your item or service

Generally, once you meet your Part B deductible of $240 in 2024, you’ll be responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for any durable medical equipment, including a walker.

Medicare covers durable medical equipment that is medically necessary and prescribed by your doctor or healthcare professional.

Medicare Part B covers much of the cost of renting or purchasing a walker after you meet your deductible. If you have Medicare Advantage, the specific plan you have will determine how much you pay toward the cost of a walker.