For individuals who rely on mobility assistance, one of the most common questions is: Does Humana cover mobility scooters? The answer depends on your specific plan, medical necessity, and whether the scooter qualifies as durable medical equipment (DME). Understanding your coverage before purchasing a scooter can save you money, time, and stress.

This guide breaks down how Humana handles mobility scooter coverage, what requirements you’ll need to meet, and tips to maximize your chances of approval.

Mobility scooters are more than just a convenience—they are often a medical necessity for people living with chronic illnesses, injuries, or disabilities that limit walking ability. For many, a scooter provides freedom to move around the home, run errands, visit family, and participate in community activities.

Without a reliable mobility aid, everyday tasks such as cooking, bathing, or shopping can become overwhelming or impossible. A mobility scooter helps maintain independence, reduces fall risks, and improves quality of life.

However, scooters can be expensive. Depending on the model, features, and brand, prices can range from $800 to over $3,500. Heavy-duty, long-range, and folding scooters typically cost more. For seniors or individuals with high medical expenses, purchasing a scooter outright may be difficult.

That’s where health insurance comes in. Humana considers mobility scooters as durable medical equipment (DME) and may cover part or all of the cost if the scooter is medically necessary.

So, does Humana cover mobility scooters? The short answer is yes—Humana may provide coverage if the scooter is deemed medically necessary and prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider.

Most coverage falls under DME benefits, but specifics depend on:

• Your Humana plan: Medicare Advantage, employer-sponsored, or individual plans may have different policies.

• Medical necessity requirements: A doctor must certify that walking long distances is unsafe or impossible without a scooter.

• In-network suppliers: Scooters must typically be obtained from approved DME providers.

• Prior authorization: Many Humana plans require pre-approval before purchase, including submission of medical records and a prescription.

Since Humana offers different plans across the country, it’s important to confirm your exact coverage by contacting your Humana representative or reviewing your plan documents.

When asking, “Does Humana cover mobility scooters?”, the most critical factor is medical necessity. Humana does not cover scooters for convenience or general comfort—they must be essential for your health and daily functioning.

Humana wants to ensure that scooters are only provided to members who truly need them. If you can safely use a cane, walker, or manual wheelchair, a scooter is unlikely to be approved. Coverage is intended for members who require a scooter to maintain mobility, independence, and safety.

Your physician plays a central role in the approval process. They must document:

• Your diagnosis and mobility limitations

• Test results or physical evaluations showing you cannot walk safely without support

• Notes explaining how mobility challenges affect daily living

• A prescription or Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) stating that a scooter is required

The more thorough the documentation, the stronger your case for Humana approval.

Humana generally considers the following before approving a scooter:

1. Inability to walk safely without assistance – Demonstrate that independent walking is unsafe or impossible over long distances.

2. Difficulty performing ADLs – Show how mobility limitations interfere with essential daily tasks such as bathing, cooking, or dressing.

3. Ability to safely operate a scooter – Assess coordination, strength, and cognitive ability to ensure safe usage.

4. Home accessibility – Living spaces must accommodate a scooter. Narrow hallways, small doorways, or obstacles may prevent coverage if the scooter cannot be used safely.

Failure to meet these criteria may result in claim denial. For example, if documentation only mentions general weakness without proving why a cane or walker is insufficient, Humana may not approve coverage.

If you believe you qualify for Humana coverage for a mobility scooter, following the proper steps is essential to ensure a smooth approval process. Here’s a detailed guide:

The first step is to meet with your Humana-affiliated physician or specialist. During this visit, your doctor will evaluate your mobility limitations, daily challenges, and overall health. They may ask about:

• How far you can safely walk without assistance

• Any history of falls or balance issues

• Difficulties performing activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, cooking, or dressing

• Previous use of mobility aids like canes, walkers, or manual wheelchairs

A thorough evaluation is essential because your doctor’s findings form the foundation of your medical necessity claim.

If your doctor determines a mobility scooter is medically necessary, they will provide a prescription or Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN). This document should clearly explain:

• Your medical condition and diagnosis

• Why other mobility aids are insufficient

• How the scooter will improve your safety, independence, and quality of life

A well-documented CMN is a critical component of your Humana approval process.

Once you have the prescription or CMN, submit it along with supporting medical records to Humana. This may include:

• Test results, such as balance or mobility assessments

• Progress notes from physical therapy or previous medical visits

• Documentation of challenges performing daily tasks and moving safely in your home

Providing detailed, organized documentation improves your chances of timely approval and minimizes the risk of claim denial.

Most Humana plans require prior authorization before a mobility scooter can be provided. This step ensures that your request meets medical necessity criteria and complies with plan rules.

• Submit all required forms and documentation before attempting to purchase or receive the scooter

• Confirm with Humana whether additional forms, evaluations, or supporting letters are needed

• Track your authorization request carefully to avoid delays

Humana requires that scooters be obtained through approved durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers. Using an in-network provider ensures:

• Your scooter is covered under your plan

• Compliance with Humana’s requirements and warranty guidelines

• Professional guidance for selecting the correct scooter model, features, and size for your needs

Always confirm the supplier is in-network before placing your order. Out-of-network purchases may result in denied claims or significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Once authorization is granted, the DME supplier will coordinate delivery and setup. Depending on your Humana plan, the scooter may be:

• Rented on a monthly basis with continued coverage

• Purchased permanently, often with partial or full plan coverage

Suppliers may also provide training on safe operation, tips for home navigation, and guidance on battery maintenance or warranty registration.

After receiving your scooter, keep records of delivery, training, and any future repairs or replacements. Some Humana plans require follow-up documentation to continue coverage, especially for rentals or extended use.

By carefully following these steps, you can maximize your chances of approval, reduce delays, and ensure that your mobility scooter meets your health needs and complies with Humana coverage requirements.

To improve your chances of getting a mobility scooter covered by Humana, it’s important to be thorough, organized, and proactive. Following these best practices can make the approval process smoother and reduce delays or denials:

Keep comprehensive medical records, test results, and notes detailing your daily challenges. Include information about your mobility limitations, such as how far you can walk safely, any history of falls, and difficulty completing activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing, cooking, or dressing. The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your case for medical necessity.

Be precise about why other mobility aids—like canes, walkers, or manual wheelchairs—are insufficient for your condition. For example, your doctor should explain if you experience fatigue, pain, or risk of falls that make these aids unsafe or impractical. Specific examples of limitations, such as “cannot walk more than 50 feet without resting” or “requires support to prevent falls when using a walker,” strengthen your claim.

Always obtain your mobility scooter through a Humana-approved DME supplier. Using in-network providers ensures that your claim meets plan requirements and helps avoid denied claims or out-of-pocket expenses. Ask Humana for a list of approved suppliers in your area and verify that the model you want is covered under your plan.

Many Humana plans require prior authorization before covering a mobility scooter. Submit all required documentation, including your prescription, Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN), and supporting medical records, before purchasing or receiving the scooter. This step is crucial to ensure that Humana recognizes the medical necessity and approves the claim.

If your initial request is denied, don’t give up. You can appeal the decision by submitting additional medical documentation, letters from your physician, or clarifications about your daily limitations. Provide detailed explanations of why the scooter is essential for mobility, independence, and safety. Acting promptly during the appeal process increases your chances of reversing the denial.

Maintain copies of all medical records, prescriptions, correspondence with Humana, and authorization forms. This ensures you have a clear record of what was submitted and can reference it if questions or disputes arise.

Regularly communicate with your physician, Humana representative, and DME supplier. Early and clear communication helps prevent missing steps, overlooked documents, or delays. Ask questions about coverage, prior authorization, and approved models to avoid surprises.

Show that your home environment is suitable for a mobility scooter. Document hallways, door widths, and any potential obstacles. Providing evidence that your living space can accommodate safe scooter use strengthens your claim and ensures Humana recognizes that the scooter will be used effectively.

By following these tips, you can maximize your chances of approval and ensure that you receive a mobility scooter that meets your health needs and restores your independence.

So, does Humana cover mobility scooters? Yes—but only if you meet medical necessity requirements and follow the proper process.

The key to approval includes:

• A detailed prescription and supporting medical documentation

• Proof that canes, walkers, or manual wheelchairs are insufficient

• Compliance with prior authorization and DME supplier rules

• A home environment that accommodates scooter use

Following these steps increases your chances of approval, minimizes out-of-pocket costs, and helps you regain mobility, independence, and safety in your home and community.

By understanding your coverage and preparing thoroughly, you can navigate the Humana approval process smoothly and get the mobility scooter you need.