Question: I am a single, disabled mother with a very low income. I am trying to get authorization from my insurance company for a power wheelchair. I don't know yet if they will cover it for me. I have been dealing with a debilitating problem for many years that is just getting progressively worse. At first I was told I have sciatica, then spinal stenosis and now I have been diagnosed with a severe case of sacroiliitis. All I know is that I am in severe pain for the majority of my day.

 I am hoping that my insurance will cover the cost of the power chair because I am unable to take my 9 year old son anywhere that involves walking. However, if my insurance company does cover the chair they won't cover the lift for me to transport the chair. And that is my problem. I am unable to pay for a lift myself. As I have stated I am on a very limit income. I do have a car. A 1996 Chevrolet Lumina. I don't know if this car will support a lift or not.

 This brings me to my question: is there a company in San Diego County that will be able to help me obtain a lift for my power chair, in the event that I get one authorized.

 I really don't like having to ask for help like this but I have no other recourse. I hope to hear from you soon. Thank you in advance for your help.

~Theresa

Answer:

If you need accessibility or mobility products that your insurance or Medicare won’t cover, there are some organizations that offer financial assistance; however, availability and eligibility varies depending on your specific situation.

Some groups help fund equipment for people with specific disabilities - for example, The Travis Roy Foundation provides grants to help American paraplegics and quadriplegics, who are paralyzed due to spinal injury, pay for accessibility equipment and modifications. The Joseph Patrick Trust is a fund that was set up to help people with muscular dystrophy or related diseases purchase specialized equipment for mobility and independence.

Your local Independent Living Center - The Access Center of San Diego, for example - will have more information on what funding organizations exist in your area. Your state government should also have resources that could help you out, so try contacting the state department that deals with disability or developmental services or rehabilitation.

A wide range of vehicles, including sedans like the Chevrolet Lumina, can be adapted to accommodate a wheelchair lift. A professional assessment will give you the best information as to what type of hitch and lift will work best with your chair and car. The Adaptive Driving Alliance (ADA) - has a tool for seeking out local professionals who specialize in vehicle modification, lifts and other adaptive automotive equipment.

Question: I am very interested in a scooter. What do they weigh? And does Medicare cover them? I know they don't cover most, but I understand there are a few that they do cover. I would like to have one about 25 to 30 pounds. Am I dreaming? ~Jessi

Answer: There are various types of motorized mobility scooters available. There are three- and four-wheel models, along with front- and rear-wheel drives. The scooters operate on batteries and they come in various designs, styles, colors and sizes. Lightweight models are available, but it may be hard or impossible to find one that weighs only 25 to 30 pounds. You may be able to find a scooter around 50 pounds though. Scooters can cost anywhere between a few hundred dollars and a few thousand dollars. I can't really answer your question about Medicare coverage as each case is unique. Medicare will cover you, at least partially, if you meet the specified requirements. To find out more about disability insurance and Medicare please visit the Disability Insurance page on this site. The page is located under the Wheelchair Shopping heading. Hopefully this information will be able to answer all of your questions.