Does Medicare Cover Beds? What You Need to Know

Does Medicare Cover Hospital Beds?

Yes, Medicare can cover hospital beds when they are considered medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME). To qualify, a doctor must prescribe the bed and document that the patient has a condition requiring home use of a hospital-style bed, such as limited mobility, chronic pain, or a respiratory condition that requires head elevation. The bed must be for use in the patient's home, not an institutional setting.

How Medicare Covers Hospital Beds

Under Medicare Part B, hospital beds fall under the durable medical equipment benefit. Original Medicare typically pays 80% of the approved amount after the Part B deductible is met, leaving the beneficiary responsible for the remaining 20%. Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least what Original Medicare covers, but out-of-pocket costs and prior authorization requirements vary by plan.

What Types of Beds Are Covered

Medicare covers manual and electric hospital beds that meet DME standards. The bed must be prescribed by a Medicare-enrolled provider and obtained from a Medicare-approved supplier. Fully adjustable beds that are not classified as DME, or beds purchased for comfort rather than medical necessity, are generally not covered.

Steps to Get Medicare Approval for a Bed

• Obtain a prescription from a Medicare-enrolled doctor stating the medical necessity.
• Have the doctor complete the Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) or the CMS-849 form.
• Order the bed from a Medicare-approved DME supplier.
• Ensure the supplier accepts Medicare assignment to limit out-of-pocket costs.

Costs and Coverage Limits

Medicare covers the rental or purchase of the bed, but beneficiaries are responsible for the Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance. Medicare typically covers the bed for as long as it is medically necessary. If the patient no longer needs it, the supplier may reclaim the equipment.

Alternatives When Medicare Does Not Cover a Bed

If Medicare denies coverage, patients can pay out of pocket, explore state Medicaid programs, or check whether a Medicare Savings Program or supplemental insurance helps with costs. Some nonprofits and community organizations also offer assistance with DME for qualifying individuals.