No, Medicare generally does not cover the cost of a walk-in shower.
Understanding Medicare's Stance on Home Modifications
Even though a walk-in shower can significantly improve accessibility and safety, often being easier to navigate than a traditional shower or bathtub, Medicare typically does not cover its costs. This is primarily due to how Medicare classifies such improvements.
Why Walk-In Showers Are Not Covered by Medicare
- Classification as a Home Modification: Medicare considers the installation of a walk-in shower to be a home modification or alteration. These types of improvements to a home's structure are generally not covered.
- Not Medically Necessary Durable Medical Equipment (DME): Walk-in showers do not fall under the category of medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME) as defined by Medicare. DME typically includes items that serve a medical purpose, can withstand repeated use, and are used in the home, such as commode chairs, hospital beds, or oxygen equipment. Because a walk-in shower is a permanent fixture and classified as a home modification, it does not meet the criteria for DME coverage.
Therefore, while a walk-in shower offers substantial benefits for individuals needing easier access to bathing, the financial responsibility for its purchase and installation typically rests with the individual.
