Skip To Main Content
Home Blog Does Medicare Cover Walk-In Tubs?

Does Medicare Cover Walk-In Tubs?

walk-in tub shower combo

The short answer is: No, Medicare does not typically cover walk-in tubs because they are not considered medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME). There are some exceptions, but these cases are rare.

You can, however, help offset the cost of your walk-in tub purchase by applying for financial assistance through various programs, grants and discounts like Medicaid or veterans benefits. You may also get special offers or promotions to apply against your product from the manufacturer.

Keep reading to learn more about insurance coverage and other financial options for walk-in tubs so you can make an informed decision for your well-being.

Medicare Exceptions for Walk-In Tubs

doctor show elderly patient her chart

Original Medicare

In rare situations, Original Medicare might make an exception and pay the cost of a walk-in tub. Any coverage you’d receive would come as a reimbursement rather than an upfront payment. This means you may not recoup your out-of-pocket payment from Original Medicare until after you have submitted a claim for reimbursement.

To submit a claim, you must obtain a letter of medical necessity from your doctor to prove that you need a walk-in tub. This letter will describe your condition and how the tub would help improve your health. If you take this approach, it’s still possible Original Medicare will reject your claim, leaving you to cover the expense.

Medicare Advantage (MA) Plans

As we shared, securing coverage for a walk-in tub through Original Medicare can be a challenging process, and you may still be denied reimbursement. 

The more promising way to gain financial assistance through Medicare is with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, also known as Plan C, which are private insurance plans offered by Medicare-approved companies. Depending on your plan, you may be eligible to receive coverage for bathroom equipment and remodeling. In fact, 10% of Medicare Advantage plans covered a portion of bathroom safety devices in 2023.

Since Medicare Advantage (MA) plans vary, call Medicare toll-free at 1-800-633-4227 to talk with your plan’s representative to determine your specific coverage.

Other Financial Assistance Options

man looking at a computer

Medicaid for Walk-In Tubs

Medicaid is more likely to pay for a walk-in tub over Medicare Original and Medicare Advantage plans. Since each state administers various Medicaid programs, there is no standardized policy on home modifications. Contact your Medicaid representative to verify whether your specific Medicaid plan includes coverage for the cost of a walk-in tub.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) 

Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver program sometimes pays for specialized medical equipment and home accessibility modifications, which can include the purchase and installation of a walk-in tub. This program allows people with significant physical and cognitive limitations to access health services and devices at home or within their community. 

To determine if your state’s Medicaid waivers will cover a walk-in tub, call Medicaid toll-free at 877-267-2323.

Veterans Benefits for Walk-In Tubs

woman pinning a medal on a veteran

The Department of Veterans Affairs does not provide financial assistance for walk-in tub purchases. However, United States veterans may qualify for special VA grants if they make their homes more accessible with a walk-in shower instead. Learn more about the veteran benefits that are available to you.

Safe Step’s Military Discount

We are proud to offer special pricing for veterans who need additional assistance. Ask your Safe Step representative about our military discount to determine your eligibility. We’re standing by and ready to help.

Grants for Walk-In Tubs

The US Department of Agriculture offers a housing repair program called the “Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loans and Grants for Seniors” to low-income seniors living in rural areas. The program helps cover various home repairs, enhancements or modifications that reduce health and safety risks, including a walk-in tub. Contact your local USDA service center to apply today.

Rebates, Discounts and Financing Plans for Walk-In Tubs

walk-in tub shower combo

Investing in a safe, accessible and comfortable walk-in tub allows you to stay in the home you love for years to come. That’s why Safe Step helps offset the general lack of coverage provided by Medicare and Medicaid with a Helping Hands initial visit discount, and we collaborate with many national marketing partners, including AARP, who offer coupons, discounts and credits.

For qualified individuals with approved credit, we also provide tailored financing plans. Explore our pricing guide for more details.

Make Your Bathing Routine Safer

woman relaxing in a soaker tub

Over the last 15 years, Safe Step has specialized in safety, creating walk-in tubs and walk-in showers that bring independence, peace of mind and comfort to your daily routine. By knowing your financial options, you can enjoy a safe, at-home bathing experience sooner.

Request a free quote today to find the best bath solution for your needs. Ask us about our competitive offers, a lowest price guarantee and other discounts. Our experts are here to help you transform the way you bathe.

Post Categories
Share

More to Love from Safe Step