Are Mobility Scooters Covered by Insurance or Medicare? What You Need to Know Before You Buy

If you’re shopping for a mobility scooter, one of the first questions that comes up is: “Will Medicare or my insurance cover this?”

This guide explains how insurance and Medicare treat mobility scooters, why travel-friendly models like the TravelScoot are not typically covered, and what options are available for financial assistance.

What Mobility Devices Are Covered by Medicare or Insurance?

Under Medicare Part B, mobility devices like power wheelchairs or scooters may be covered if they meet the following criteria:

• Medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor
• Intended primarily for use inside the home
• Supplied by a Medicare-enrolled Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier
• Approved for the individual after a face-to-face mobility evaluation

Devices intended for homebound use are more likely to qualify under DME requirements.

Why TravelScoot (and Similar Models) Are Not Covered

The TravelScoot is designed for individuals who require mobility support beyond the home, including during travel. It does not meet the Medicare requirements for DME classification.

Reasons include:

• Lightweight and portable design, not a bulky indoor unit
• Used primarily outdoors and while traveling
• Not issued through a Medicare-approved DME supplier
• Not part of a physician-evaluated claim submission

Our HCPCS Code: K0899

The TravelScoot is assigned the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code K0899, which is a miscellaneous code for power mobility devices.

This code indicates that the device does not fit traditional DME categories. While Medicare will not reimburse using K0899, some customers have submitted this code to private insurance companies and received partial or full reimbursement. Results depend on the insurer and plan.

What This Means for TravelScoot Customers

The TravelScoot is not covered by Medicare or most insurance providers. This is intentional. The product is designed for users seeking freedom, portability, and independence.

Key benefits include:

• Lightweight frame (33 lbs including battery)
• Airline-approved lithium-ion battery (under 300Wh)
• 500-lb weight capacity
• Easy to transport in trunks, airplane cabins, and cruise ships

Alternative Funding Options

If you are seeking assistance with payment, consider the following:

• HSA/FSA funds (check with your plan administrator)
• Veterans assistance programs (VA)
• Financing options available through TravelScoot USA
• Grants from local nonprofits or mobility support programs
• Private insurance reimbursement (in some cases using HCPCS K0899)

The Bottom Line: Freedom vs. Red Tape

The TravelScoot is not a DME-approved scooter, but it offers advantages that traditional insurance-covered models do not. It is:

• Airline-approved
• Lightweight and portable
• Built for active lifestyles and travel
• Independence-focused rather than homebound use

For those prioritizing mobility and travel freedom, the TravelScoot is a practical investment.

Need Help?

If you have questions about insurance, coverage, or the TravelScoot, contact us at 800-342-2214 or send us a message online.

Quick FAQ

• Is the TravelScoot covered by Medicare?
  No. It does not meet DME requirements.
• Will my private insurance cover it?
  Possibly. Some customers have received partial or full coverage by submitting HCPCS code K0899 with supporting documentation.
• Can I use HSA/FSA funds?
  Often yes. Confirm with your administrator.