Medicare Part B reimburses about $440 for the U-Step for neurological conditions (including Parkinson's Disease) or other conditions which require a heavy duty walker with one-handed brake control and variable wheel resistance (HCPCS code E0147).
Prior reimbursement for a power scooter may disqualify one for coverage. Also, prior Medicare reimbursement for any type of walker during the past five years requires documentation to warrant coverage for an advanced walker due to a change in health.
Medicare Part B approves advanced walkers for home use only. Hospitals, facilities and home hospice agencies may be able to provide the U-step through Medicare Part A coverage.
Insurance companies' coverages vary, but many reimburse 80% of the cost of the U-Step; a few plans may cover the laser light as well.
As of January 2011, patients living in these nine regions must purchase walkers from a select list of stores approved by Medicare in order to obtain Medicare Part B coverage:
Charlotte, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dallas/Fort Worth, Kansas City, Miami (S. Florida), Orlando, Pittsburgh and Riverside/San Bernadino.
Click here to search for authorized suppliers under category "Walkers and Related Accesories". Medicare replacement plans are not affected by this policy change.
Medicare offers only the standard cane reimbursement amount for the LaserCane, approximately $15. Some private insurance plans offer higher coverage levels, however.
In-Step Mobility will be happy to assist you in submitting your Medicare claims. Please mail or fax your Medicare ID and a copy of your physician's prescription at the time of purchase.