Air-Fluidized Beds: What They Are and How Medicare Covers Them

It’s important to know your options for Medicare coverage. Today, we’re going to focus on Medicare-approved mattresses and how your insurance can help pay for one if your doctor says you need a specific type.

One type of bed you can get covered is an air-fluidized bed. These beds help relieve pain and distribute pressure evenly for people with bedsores, burns, or other wounds that make it difficult to move comfortably. In this guide, we’ll explain more about air-fluidized beds and how Medicare covers them. 

Key takeaways:

• An air-fluidized bed helps people with chronic pain, wounds, or ulcers heal better and feel more comfortable by controlling air pressure.

• Medicare covers air-fluidized beds if your doctor prescribes them for you due to a health condition. 

• Medicare also covers other types of mattresses like in-home hospital beds, adjustable beds, and powered and non-powered beds to manage arthritis, bedsores, and other conditions. 

What is an air-fluidized bed?

Air-fluidized beds are most commonly used in a hospital or other healthcare setting. If you have a condition where you need to be in bed for long stretches of time or you have wounds that restrict your mobility, an air-fluidized mattress can help you heal better and feel more comfortable.

These beds work by regulating the air pressure on the mattress with small ceramic or plastic beads that behave like a fluid. Controlling the air pressure on a bed can ensure that pressure is spread evenly over your body. This reduces the development of ulcers and helps heal your wounds. Air-fluidized mattresses also improve blood circulation and tissue oxygenation.

Does Medicare cover mattresses?

Yes, there are multiple types of beds and mattresses that are considered durable medical equipment (DME) under Medicare. Medicare covers any DME that a doctor prescribes for you, which is important to note. You must have a chronic condition or other medically necessary reason for coverage. This can include:

• Stage II pressure ulcers

• Arthritis 

• Sciatica 

• Chronic pain

• Burns

• Trouble getting in and out of bed due to back issues

Many seniors experience back pain, but Medicare will only cover an air-fluidized bed or other mattress if you have severe chronic pain that affects your mobility. For other options to manage back pain, you can try physical therapy or acupuncture, which are both covered by Medicare under certain circumstances.

Does Medicare Advantage cover air-fluidized beds and other mattresses?

Yes, Medicare Advantage plans must cover air-fluidized beds and other Medicare-approved mattresses that Original Medicare covers. However, your out-of-pocket costs will vary depending on your specific plan.

Medicare-approved beds and mattresses 

Medicare may also cover additional beds and mattresses used to relieve back pain and relieve pressure. You should confirm coverage with your doctor and the mattress or bed supplier before making a purchase.

Also note that Medicare will rarely cover any cosmetic upgrades or extra services for beds, like side rails or other electrically powered models. 

How much does an air-fluidized bed cost with Medicare?

Medicare covers 80% of the cost of an air-fluidized bed once you’ve met your Part B deductible. This means that you’ll owe 20% and any amount left from your Part B deductible.

Medicare may require that you rent or buy the mattress, depending on the equipment you need. Make sure your supplier is enrolled in Medicare. This ensures that the air-fluidized bed meets Medicare’s quality and safety standards. Plus, a supplier that isn’t enrolled in Medicare and doesn’t accept assignment can charge you more. 

Renting or purchasing durable medical equipment like air-fluidized beds can be complex. If you have any questions about your Medicare costs for mattresses or any other device to improve your health, call a Medicare Advisor at 855-900-2427 or schedule a time to chat for free, personalized Medicare advice.