How To Get Your Next Mattress Covered By Medicare

Medicare could cover the cost of your next mattress. This may sound a little strange, but there is a reason. See how :

The National Sleep Foundation has reported that about 50% of adults experience low back pain and 60% have problems with their neck from sleeping on their mattress. The foundation also says that the average person spends 1/3 of their life in bed, which equates to seven years total by age 65. There are many reasons why your next mattress should be covered by Medicare including the health risks associated with poor sleep quality.

If you or a loved one wants a new mattress, medicare could facilitate the process. The first step is to go to medicare.gov and apply for medicare part A and B benefits if you do not already have them. After you are approved, schedule an appointment with your doctor because medicare will cover the cost of your next mattress if there is a medical reason for you needing a new one. The Medicare website states that the doctor will explain your options and help you get fitted with your new mattress. If you have a Medicare supplemental insurance, it may also cover the cost of your next mattress so check to see what your plan covers.

What Kinds of Mattresses Are Covered?

Only certain mattresses are defined as durable medical equipment. Examples of covered mattresses are ones that are used for rehabilitation, not just any bedding or furniture. The mattress must be designed to meet the needs of your doctor as a medical device. Knowing which mattresses are covered by Medicare is critical to determining whether the mattress you want will be covered.

Essentially, you'll just need to make sure the mattress is classified as durable medical equipment—sometimes referred to as "DME."

To be designated as durable medical equipment, a mattress must serve an important role in a patient's daily routine. This designation can only be obtained from a doctor after they determine your bed is medically necessary. In addition to a DME classification, it must also meet 5 additional criteria:

• Medical use
• Capable of handling repeated use
• Useful to a sick or injured person
• Can be used at home
• Has a minimum life expectancy of 3 years

If your mattress meets the above three criteria, Medicare will cover the cost of 80% of the mattress price!

How to Get Your Mattress

If you need an adjustable bed and you have Medicare, chances are you have most of the coverage you need. Where to start? It's easy! Start by:

__1) Search one of the options __

2) Compare at least 2 or 3 of the available offers

3) Talk to your doctor about your top pick

__4) Get your mattress! __