Who Qualifies for a Home Hospital Bed—And How to Get One?

For the recovery or long-term care of your dear one and you, hospital beds might be required at home. Usually, these beds offer first aid to patients with lower mobility, chronic illness, or after surgery. 

In this  guide, we will look into:

• ✔ Who qualifies for a home hospital bed?
• ✔ How to get one through insurance (including Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance)
• ✔ To rent or to purchase-hospital beds
• ✔ Places to order hospital beds for home use

Who Qualifies for a Home Hospital Bed? Not everybody who wants a hospital bed at home will get coverage under insurance. Usually, the doctor has to state that the bed is medically necessary. Some common reasons for approval are:

Medical Conditions That May Qualify:

• Chronic illnesses (ALS, multiple sclerosis, severe arthritis)
• Post-surgery recovery (hip replacement, spinal surgery)
• Severe mobility limitations (paralysis, advanced Parkinson’s)
• Respiratory or cardiac conditions (COPD, heart failure)
• Terminal illnesses (hospice or palliative care needs)

Prescription Is Necessary

The insurance company will always ask for a Doctor’s written order stating that the bed is medically necessary. The prescription should contain:

• The diagnosis of the patient/bedsitter
• Why a standard bed is not good enough
• The type of hospital bed required (electric, semi-electric, or manual)

How to Get a Hospital Bed for the Home: The Step-by-Step Process

1. Check Insurance Coverage 

• Medicare (Part B): It will pay 80% of the charge if Medicare deems it medically necessary, leaving the patient responsible for 20%.
• Medicaid: Varies from state to state but does cover hospital beds, given there is proper documentation.
• Private Insurance: Check your policy; some require precertification.

2. Prescription from Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your needs for a hospital bed. They must provide documentation to have the bed approved by the insurance company.

3. Choose to Rent or Buy

Renting: For short-term needs (post-surgery recovery).

Buying: For long-term care; Medicare may cover purchase costs.

4. Order From a Supplier that is Medicare-Approved

If you are planning to get hospital bed Rental with insurance, then you should procure it from a DME supplier that accepts your coverage.

5. Setup and Adjust for Use

After delivery, if any adjustment is required regarding bed height, positioning, or safety rails, a technician may render assistance.

Where Can One Get a Hospital Bed?

• Medical supply companies (Apria, Lincare)
• Online stores (ProMed Equipment Oakville)
• Local medical equipment suppliers (just be sure to check their reviews)

Final Thoughts

Getting hospital beds for home use truly comes down to setting up an argument for medical necessity, securing a doctor’s order, and then working through insurance. If fully denied coverage, then consider renting or purchasing a refurbished bed just to cut down on costs.