Does Medicare pay for grab bars?
Not covered
Original Medicare does not pay for grab bars. Its equipment list turns them down as self-help devices. (CMS, CMS (HPMS memo, April 27, 2018))
What Medicare does cover
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a home and bathroom safety benefit that can include grab bars.
What it costs
Grab bar installation: typically $110 to $380 per bar, installed. See prices by type.
Other ways to pay
What to do next
- Ask your doctor whether the change, or any covered equipment, fits your needs, and get it in writing.
- If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, call it and ask what home safety or extra benefits it has this year.
- Get at least two written quotes before you pay a deposit. Compare prices first.
Last checked .
Sources
- CMS: NCD 280.1, Durable Medical Equipment Reference List (government), checked
- CMS (HPMS memo, April 27, 2018): Reinterpretation of primarily health related supplemental benefits (government), checked
Not medical or insurance advice. Prices change; get written quotes, and check coverage with Medicare or your plan.