Does Medicare Cover a Rollator Walker?

A rollator walker is a mobility aid designed to offer stability and support for individuals who experience difficulties with walking or balance. Unlike a traditional walker, a rollator features three or four wheels, allowing for smoother movement without the need to lift the device with each step. Many models include a built-in seat for resting, handbrakes for safety, and often a storage pouch or basket for personal items. These devices are intended to enhance mobility and independence for users, enabling them to navigate various environments more confidently.

Medicare Part B Coverage for Rollators

Rollator walkers are covered under Medicare Part B, which addresses medical services and supplies. These devices fall under Durable Medical Equipment (DME). To qualify as DME, equipment must meet specific criteria: it must be durable; used for a medical purpose; not useful to someone without an illness or injury; appropriate for home use; and expected to last for at least three years.

Meeting Medical Necessity Requirements

For Medicare to cover a rollator, a healthcare professional must determine it is medically necessary. This means the rollator is required to diagnose or treat an illness, injury, condition, or its symptoms, meeting accepted medical standards. The prescribing physician or other authorized healthcare provider must document the medical need for the device.

The physician’s order should include specific details, such as the diagnosis, the particular type of equipment needed, and the duration for which it is required. Without this clear medical justification and a written order, Medicare may not provide coverage.

Navigating the Supplier Process

Once medical necessity is established, obtaining a rollator involves selecting a Medicare-approved Durable Medical Equipment (DME) supplier. Confirm that the supplier is enrolled in Medicare and accepts assignment. Accepting assignment means the supplier agrees to accept the Medicare-approved amount as full payment and will only bill you for the deductible and coinsurance.

Beneficiaries can locate Medicare-approved suppliers through the official Medicare website’s “Find Medical Equipment & Suppliers” tool by entering their zip code. After identifying a suitable supplier, the physician’s order is presented. The supplier then verifies eligibility and handles direct billing to Medicare.

Understanding Your Financial Responsibility

When Medicare covers a rollator, beneficiaries are responsible for a portion of the cost. After meeting the annual Medicare Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2025, Medicare typically pays 80% of the Medicare-approved amount for the device. The beneficiary is then responsible for the remaining 20% coinsurance.

Some individuals may have additional insurance, such as a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy, which can help cover these out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles and coinsurance. Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies and are designed to fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare coverage.