GET MOVING
WITH A POWER WHEELCHAIR

How much will it cost me?

• Most insurances require prior authorization prior to receiving the equipment so you will know your projected out of pocket expenses prior to delivery.

• Insurance companies will approve the need for a power wheelchair for use inside your residence, however, the power wheelchairs have suspension systems to allow for small variances in terrain.

• The process does require an in-person meeting with your primary care physician along with the required documentation to file a claim with your insurance.  The process can take 45-75 days.

Is the power wheelchair transportable?

• The power wheelchair is not designed for disassembly however there many options for lifts for your vehicle to transport your power wheelchair when traveling outside the home.

• Your power wheelchair comes with a 1-year warranty on the mechanical components.  After your warranty expires, your insurance may cover all or a portion for parts and labor needed to get your power wheelchair repaired.

• Some insurances will only rent a power wheelchair based on your needs.  When the power wheelchair is rented through your insurance, it is NSM’s responsibility to fix/repair the power wheelchair during the rental period.  After the rental period has ended (refer to as Capped Out) then ownership of the power wheelchair transfers to the client and will be responsible for the equipment thereafter.

• NSM has many locations to repair your equipment regardless of where you originally received the power wheelchair.  While NSM prefers you to bring the power wheelchair to branches as we can fix them on the spot, we can make arrangements to come to your home or place of business for the repair.

• NSM has RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professionals (ATPs) that have been specifically trained on matching the most appropriate power wheelchair to you for current and future needs.  It is also the responsibility of an NSM ATP to educate the client on all the options available to you and educate on insurance coverage of those options.

• It is not recommended for the client to change the batteries given our technicians are trained to make the changes.  Additionally, most insurances will not reimburse the client if they performed the work independently.

• Most insurance companies will cover for wheelchair accessories if there is a legitimate medical need, such as an oxygen tank holder for a client that uses oxygen or elevating leg rests for a client to reduce swelling.  Some accessories such as backpacks or pouches are not medically justifiable.

• NSM does have loaner power wheelchairs available at each location on a first-come, first-serve basis.  Our goal is to get your equipment repaired as quickly as possible and whether the power wheelchair is under warranty or out of warranty a loaner can help provide the mobility needed while your power wheelchair is being repaired.

• It is best to keep your power wheelchair on a charging scheduled regardless of usage.  You cannot over-charge your power wheelchair.  It is recommended to avoid high water areas or using the chair in the rain.