How to get a shower chair for free?

Asked by: Ellsworth Steuber  |  Last update: April 8, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (28 votes)

There are many local organizations that may operate medical equipment schemes. For example, Friends of Disabled Adults and Children is a nonprofit that may be able to provide shower chairs.

Will Medicare pay for a shower chair?

No, Medicare does not cover shower chairs, because they're not considered medically necessary. However, some – but not most – Medicare Advantage plans can help cover bathroom grab bars, and it's possible that Medicaid or VA benefits may help pay for a shower chair.

Can you get a prescription for a shower chair?

In many states, Medicaid may cover the cost of a shower chair if it's deemed medically necessary. To qualify: The individual must meet income eligibility requirements. A doctor must provide a prescription stating the medical need for the shower chair.

Does insurance cover a shower bench?

Most insurance plans don't cover a shower chair or tub bench, so it often doesn't matter where you buy it. The best place will be the one that offers the chair you need with all the features you want for the best price.

How to get free medical equipment?

7 Ways Family Caregivers Can Access Free or Loaned Durable Medical Equipment
  1. FODAC (Friends of Disabled Adults and Children) ...
  2. Goodwill. ...
  3. Equipment Libraries. ...
  4. Digital Marketplaces & Support Groups. ...
  5. Churches and Religious Organizations. ...
  6. Senior Centers, Non-Profit Organizations and Advocacy Groups.

Wheelchair Accessible Bathroom - Curbless / Roll in shower

37 related questions found

How to get insurance to cover a medical device?

In order for any product to be considered medically necessary, a healthcare professional must confirm that the supplies are needed for treatment. A diagnosis provides that to insurance. Without proof that supplies are needed, insurance won't usually cover the cost of supplies.

How to get Medicaid to pay for medical equipment?

Generally, an enrollee needs a prescription from a provider in order for DME to be covered by Medicaid. The enrollee must then get the DME from a supplier that is enrolled in the state's Medicaid program. DME suppliers may include mail-order options. Some, but not all, pharmacies are also DME suppliers.

How to get a shower chair through Medicaid?

Depending on the state, some Medicaid programs may also cover shower chairs if a doctor prescribes one. Again, any equipment would need to be doctor-prescribed. For certain older adults, there may also be an option to get this equipment through a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).

What is the difference between a shower chair and a shower bench?

An advantage of shower chairs is they can easily be removed from the shower when others in the household wish to take a shower. A bath bench eliminates the problem of stepping in or out of the tub. Benches are ideal for individuals with poor balance or for those having difficulty getting in and out of the bathtub.

What can I use as a shower chair?

Ceramic garden stools can be used as freestanding shower seats. They're made of durable, water-safe material and are perfect for small spaces. Use one you already have, or choose one that complements your bathroom's color scheme.

What are the disadvantages of shower chairs?

Disadvantages of a Shower Chair

Less stable than fixed seating – Because shower chairs are freestanding, they may tip if you lean on them too heavily. Take up space – Shower chairs can be bulky and take up more surface area than a shower stool.

Will Medicare help cover the cost of a walk-in shower?

Medicare does not usually cover the costs of a walk-in shower. Although a walk-in shower is often easier to navigate than a traditional shower or bathtub, Medicare does not cover it as medically necessary durable medical equipment (DME). Medicare typically considers a walk-in shower a home modification, not DME.

What is the code for shower chair?

HCPCS Description

E0240 Bath/shower chair, with or without wheels, any size.

Why are shower chairs not covered by insurance?

In most cases, standard health insurance plans do not cover shower chairs because they are considered personal convenience items rather than essential medical equipment. However, some policies may provide partial coverage if a doctor prescribes the chair as medically necessary.

Is a shower chair or stool better?

Shower stools and benches lack the back support of chairs but may be more suitable in smaller spaces as there is no back rest to move around.

How do you wash yourself in a shower chair?

Sit down: Sit down on a shower chair and make sure you feel comfortable and stable. Adjust the height of the chair as needed so that your feet can easily reach the floor. Turn on the faucet: Adjust the shower head to make sure the water is at the right temperature, then turn on the faucet.

Why should a shower chair be in the bathroom?

Using a shower chair or bath chair helps to increase safety by decreasing the chance of you falling by providing a secure area in a slippery shower or bath. Shower Chairs and Bath chairs are especially useful for those that are in wheelchairs, the elderly, or anyone who finds excessive movement painful or difficult.

What is the best material for a shower chair?

Shower benches made from a mold- or mildew-resistant material like plastic or teak can help you avoid build-up. Shower benches with holes or drains prevent water pooling for added resistance.

How to get a free lift chair?

To determine if you are eligible for lift chairs Medicaid coverage, call your local Medicaid office to schedule an appointment and mention that you want to apply for a lift chair. You will need to bring along proof of income, Medicaid status, copies of insurance policies, and photo ID.

Do hospitals have shower chairs?

82% (60/73) of showers had a shower seat, generally a simple plastic chair borrowed from the main ward.

Does Medicare pay for bathing assistance?

If you qualify for home health benefits, Medicare may cover the following services: Home health aides to help with personal activities such as bathing, dressing or going to the bathroom, if such help is necessary because of your illness or injury.

What items are covered by Medicaid?

Mandatory benefits include services including inpatient and outpatient hospital services, physician services, laboratory and x-ray services, and home health services, among others. Optional benefits include services including prescription drugs, case management, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

What kind of beds will Medicare pay for?

As a general rule, Medicare Part B will cover basic hospital beds. However, additional items may also be covered if your doctor says that they are medically necessary. Beds with adjustable heights, side rails, and electrically-powered beds are not part of Medicare's basic coverage.

How long will Medicare pay for home health care?

You can continue to receive home health care for as long as you qualify. However, your plan of care must be recertified every 60 days by your doctor. Your doctor may make changes to the hours you are receiving or other services, depending on whether the level of care you are receiving is still reasonable and necessary.