Skip to content

Does Medicare Cover a Hospital Bed in Contra Costa County?

Medicare Part B generally covers durable medical equipment (DME) like hospital beds when it's medically necessary for use in your home — but the approval process trips a lot of families up. Here's how it actually works.

What Medicare Part B requires

Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the approved cost for a hospital bed once your deductible is met, with you responsible for the remaining 20% (unless a supplemental plan covers it). Coverage requires a written order from your physician stating the bed is medically necessary — for example, to help manage a condition that requires positioning changes not possible in a regular bed, or to attach traction equipment.

The bed generally must be supplied through a Medicare-enrolled DME supplier. Buying from a non-enrolled retailer can mean no reimbursement at all, even with a valid prescription.

Semi-electric vs. fully electric — what's usually covered

Medicare most commonly covers semi-electric hospital beds (manual head/foot adjustment, electric height adjustment) when medical necessity is documented. Fully electric beds, which add power head/foot controls, are sometimes classified differently and may involve a larger out-of-pocket cost depending on your specific plan and documentation.

How we handle it for you

We verify your Medicare or Medi-Cal benefits before you commit to anything, help gather the physician's order and any supporting documentation, and can set up rental options for shorter-term recovery needs instead of a purchase. Every Medicare coverage situation is a little different, so we always recommend a quick call to confirm your specific plan before assuming what's covered.

Common questions

Do I need a prescription for a hospital bed to be covered?
Yes. Medicare requires a written order from your physician documenting medical necessity before a hospital bed can be billed to Part B.
Can I rent a hospital bed instead of buying one?
Yes — rentals are common for short-term recovery (post-surgery, temporary illness) and may be more cost-effective than a purchase depending on how long you'll need the bed.

Have a question about your specific situation?

Tell us about your situation and our team will recommend the right equipment, check your insurance, and arrange delivery.

(925) 462-5600
Call now