October 3, 2023

Are Grab Bars Covered by Insurance?

Whether or not grab bars are covered by insurance depends on your specific insurance plan. Some insurance plans cover grab bars as durable medical equipment (DME), while others do not. This usually depends on the type of insurance you have and the specific circumstances surrounding your grab bar installation.

Which insurance plans might cover the cost of grab bars?

Health Insurance (Traditional & Medicare):

Typically, traditional health insurance plans, including private health insurance and Original Medicare (Part A & Part B) do NOT cover grab bars unless a doctor deems them medically necessary to prevent falls and improve safety.
However, some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer coverage for grab bars
In some cases, if a healthcare provider determines that grab bars are medically necessary for your safety and well-being, your health insurance may cover them. This is usually determined on a case-by-case basis.

Medicare Advantage Plans:

These plans can cover grab bars, but coverage details vary. It’s best to check directly with your specific Medicare Advantage provider to see if they cover grab bars and what the requirements are.
Some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may offer additional benefits beyond traditional Medicare, including coverage for home modifications like grab bars.

Medicaid:

This joint federal and state program offers health coverage for low-income individuals and families. Some state Medicaid programs may include home and community-based services that cover home modifications, including grab bars. Eligibility and coverage details differ depending on the state, so it’s best to contact your local Medicaid agency for specific information.

Homeowners Insurance:

This insurance usually doesn’t cover grab bars unless they are related to a covered loss, like needing modifications to prevent future accidents after a fall. In such cases, a homeowners insurance policy may cover the cost of modifications necessary to prevent future accidents.

Workers’ Compensation:

If you were injured at work and require home modifications like grab bars as a result of a work-related injury, workers’ compensation insurance may cover the cost. This would depend on the circumstances of the injury and your specific workers’ compensation policy.

Long-Term Care Insurance:

Long-term care insurance policies may cover home modifications, including grab bars, if they are related to the insured individual’s needs for activities of daily living (ADLs) or mobility. Coverage and eligibility vary by policy, so you should review your policy or contact your insurance provider for details.

It’s important to check the details of your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider directly to understand whether grab bars are covered and under what conditions. If you believe that grab bars are necessary for your safety or the safety of a family member, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can assess your needs and provide documentation that may support a claim for coverage.

What if none of the above insurance categories apply to me?

If you don’t fall into any of the traditional insurance categories for grab bar coverage, there are still some options to consider:

Out-of-pocket purchase: Grab bars are often a relatively inexpensive safety measure. You can find them at most hardware stores and online retailers for a reasonable price. Installation might add some cost, but you can also find DIY tutorials online or consider a handyman service for a more professional installation.
Financial assistance programs: Some government agencies or non-profit organizations might offer financial assistance for home modifications, including grab bars, for low-income individuals or seniors. Search online for programs in your area using keywords like “home modification assistance program” or contact your local Department of Aging for information.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): These government-funded agencies offer various services for seniors, including information and referral for home modifications. They might be able to connect you with resources for financial assistance or discounted grab bar installation programs.
Veteran benefits: If you’re a veteran, the VA (Veterans Affairs) might offer home improvement and structural modification grants to improve accessibility and safety in your home.
Manufacturer rebates: Some grab bar manufacturers occasionally offer rebates on their products. Check with retailers or online stores to see if there are any current promotions.

While insurance might not cover grab bars in your situation, exploring these alternative options can still make them an affordable and valuable addition to your home for improved safety and independence.

How can I find out if my insurance plan overs the cost of grab bars?

The best way to find out if your insurance covers the cost of grab bars is to directly contact your insurance provider. Here’s how you can do that:

Check your policy documents: Review your insurance policy documents, member handbook, or online portal to see if there’s any mention of home modifications or durable medical equipment (DME) coverage. This might give you a general idea of potential coverage.
Call your insurance company: Contact your insurance company’s customer service department by phone. They can access your specific plan details and explain the coverage for grab bars under your plan.
Use the insurance company’s online portal: Many insurance companies offer online portals where you can log in to your account and find information about your coverage. You might be able to search for specific terms like “grab bars” or “home modifications” to see if relevant information is available.

It’s important to remember that grab bars are a preventative measure that promote safety, independence, and peace of mind. While insurance coverage may not be available, the benefits of preventing falls and maintaining your well-being far outweigh the cost.

If you are in need of grab bars, take a look here: Grab Bars

If you have any additional questions about grab bars, give us a call at 704-800-4629, live chat with us on GrabBars.com or email us at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help you out.

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