ROLL OUT: Search for Pride Roll Models has Begun

Are you a Pride Roll Model? That’s what Pride Mobility® wants to know. And that’s why we want to hear from YOU! 

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Pride Roll Model contest. We’re searching for two awesome, diverse, and relatable people from across the country to join our passionate team of brand ambassadors. 

“Pride Mobility is committed to helping people live their best lives, and we know that it’s only possible when people have the right mobility products that fit their lifestyle,” said Stephanie Woodward, Brand Ambassador Coordinator. “We celebrate the diverse and unique lives that individuals lead and we work hard to create a variety of mobility products to help each person live their best. 

“That’s why we’re so excited for our Pride Roll Model contest. We can’t wait to bring on two new team members who can share with the world how Pride Mobility products help them live their best lives!” 

Winners of the Pride Roll Model contest will receive a three-month paid Pride Roll Model contract and a Pride Mobility device (Jazzy® Carbon or Go Go® Travel Mobility series scooter) with all necessary repairs provided at no cost. 

The contest runs from September 1, 2023 through October 6, 2023. It is open to legal residents of the United States who are at least 18 years of age or who are at least ten years of age with parent/guardian written consent. 

Here’s how to apply… 

  1. Visit the contest link and fill out the entry form (the Official Rules can be seen on this page as well) 
  1. Follow Pride Mobility on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok. 
  1. Post a video or photo(s) of yourself on social media, explaining how having a Jazzy Carbon or a Go Go Travel Mobility series scooter would help you live your best life. Be sure to tag Pride Mobility and use the hashtag #PrideRollModel. 
  1. Encourage your friends to like and share your post! 

Judging consists of three factors… 

  • 10% Public Voting (likes, comments, reposts, etc.) 
  • 30% Photo or Video Content 
  • 60% Explanation of how a Pride Mobility device would help Contest Participants live their best life 

The search is on, and we can’t wait to hear from you. Let us know why you should be our next Pride Roll Model! 

How Does a Product Receive a HCPCS Code and Become Reimbursable?

In consultation with your Medicare-enrolled doctor or other health care provider, you may be prescribed use of durable medical equipment (DME) in your home. Medical insurance will cover medically necessary DME, which includes electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and power lift recliners.

Pride Mobility® is proud to offer a robust lineup of each of these products, but you may be wondering about the process through which these products go to become “reimbursable” through insurance, and what separates certain products from others.

What is an FDA Class II Medical Device?

You may notice that nearly all Pride products are classified as “FDA Class II Medical Device”. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration defines Class II devices as those “for which special controls, combined with general controls, are necessary to provide reasonable assurance of safety and effectiveness.”1

The manufacturer, when researching and developing a new product, must go through the FDA and meet certain criteria if it wishes to have the product classified as a medical device. This is an important step toward making a product reimbursable through insurance.

What is an HCPCS code?

The Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) is a collection of codes that represent procedures, supplies, products, and services which may be provided to Medicare beneficiaries and to individuals enrolled in private health insurance programs.2 These are standardized codes used to bill insurance for DME and are part of a numeric coding system maintained by the American Medical Association.

These HCPCS codes represent medical procedures to Medicare, Medicaid, and several other third-party payers. While there are many categories, you will find Pride products classified under those that begin with “E” or “K”, as these both contain DME.

How does a product receive an HCPCS code?

In order to cover power mobility devices, Medicare requires that the device have an official code verification through the PDAC, the Medicare Pricing Data Analysis and Coding contractor who assigns HCPCS codes. This verification ensures that the products that beneficiaries are receiving are of a certain standard and quality.

The PDAC compiles testing results to determine safety and performance and considers characteristics, power options, weight capacity, seating, and much more before assigning an HCPCS code.

Following this review, PDAC could: confirm the requested code, deny the requested code, and/or come back with a different suggested code for the product. If a code is confirmed, the product is officially classified and marketed as such, giving a clear signal to Medicare and other health care providers that the product may be covered by insurance.

Other considerations

Some Pride products, which are considered medical devices, have not received official PDAC code verification.  These items are billed with HCPCS code K0899 and are not covered by Medicare.   They may be reimbursed by other funding sources that do not require official PDAC code verification for coverage or they may be available as a retail only purchase. 

Pride also offers mobility products that are considered non-medical and are not intended to assist, treat, diagnose, or alleviate any medical condition or disability.  These products are also available and may be purchased directly from a Pride retailer.

If a Pride product has an official code verification, you can be sure it’s undergone substantial testing and that it’s met stringent guidelines and parameters to receive such a code. Independent testing is required, and Medicare will expect that the DME will last five years from the time you receive it. That’s considered the reasonable useful lifetime of a product.

If you have questions about your mobility options and are considering a Pride Mobility electric wheelchair, mobility scooter, or power lift recliner, check out our step-by-step consumer guide to Medicare coverage.

 

1https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/guidance-documents-medical-devices-and-radiation-emitting-products/class-ii-special-controls-documents#:~:text=Devices%20classified%20into%20class%20II,assurance%20of%20safety%20and%20effectiveness.

 

2https://resdac.org/cms-data/variables/healthcare-common-procedure-coding-system-hcpcs-code-ffs#:~:text=Healthcare%20Common%20Procedure%20Coding%20System%20(HCPCS)%20Code%20(FFS),-This%20variable%20is&text=The%20Healthcare%20Common%20Procedure%20Coding,in%20private%20health%20insurance%20programs.

Jazzy® EVO 613 Series Batteries: U1 vs. Lithium-Ion

The Jazzy® EVO 613 series of power wheelchairs from Pride Mobility® are among the most powerful on the market, but they’re also among the narrowest and most maneuverable with a 22-inch-wide base, a 22-inch turning radius, and Active-Trac® suspension.

This series is comprised of two models: Jazzy EVO 613, and Jazzy EVO 613Li. The difference lies within the type of battery – the former utilizes a pair of 12-volt U-1 sealed lead acid batteries, while the latter is powered by a single 25-volt lithium-iron phosphate battery.

These two battery types are classified differently under the Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS), the medical billing process used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Therefore, when insurance claims are processed for reimbursement, U1 and lithium-ion batteries will be billed differently.

U-1 vs. Lithium-Ion

Two U-1 batteries are required to power the Jazzy EVO 613. Only one lithium battery is required to power the Jazzy EVO 613Li.

Each U-1 battery weighs 23.5 pounds, while one lithium battery weighs 18.5 pounds.

U-1 batteries are airline-compliant. While some lithium batteries are airline-compliant, the total watt hours of the ones utilized on the Jazzy EVO 613Li (829 Wh) exceeds the limit established by the Federal Aviation Administration (300 Wh).

Although lithium-ion batteries are more expensive, there are several advantages to using them, including a faster charging time, sustained power performance, and a longer life.

Billing Differences

Batteries are among certain parts of an electric wheelchair that are separately reimbursable). Each battery is classified into its own HCPCS code. For U-1 batteries, that code is E2365. For lithium-based, it’s E2397.

Medicare reimburses more for lithium batteries, though the exact amount will vary by state, based on the residency of the beneficiary. And it’s important to remember that The EVO 613Liutilizes one lithium battery as opposed to the two U-1 batteries required for the operation of the EVO 613. 

When it comes to battery replacement, lithium is an excellent choice.  Medicare will pay for a replacement lithium battery once every three years, and Pride offers a three-year limited warranty on the lithium batteries used on the Jazzy EVO 613Li. The U-1 batteries are covered by a separate 13-month warranty, provided by the battery manufacturer. These batteries are not warranted by Pride.

Other Considerations

While both U-1 and lithium-ion batteries have their advantages, consumers’ preferences would determine their choices. For instance, if a consumer would like to travel by airplane with their powerchair, they would prefer U1 batteries since those are airline compliant.

If a consumer were to use their powerchair more around the house and around town, while possibly moving and lifting it more often, lithium batteries would be preferred, since one is significantly lighter than two U-1 batteries.

From a service standpoint, lithium batteries may be a more economical choice.  The sustained power performance and longer battery life of lithium can result in fewer service calls. 

No matter the battery, both the Jazzy EVO 613 and the Jazzy EVO 613Li are among the most premier options in the Jazzy lineup.

Introducing the Baja Bandit: the Ultimate Escape from the Ordinary

Are you ready to unleash your inner adventurer? We’ve been searching for ways to
test the boundaries, just like you. That’s the essence of Baja Mobility—embracing the
thrill of exploration, pushing limits, and venturing into the unknown.
We don’t hold anything back. Now you won’t have to either.
Introducing the Baja Bandit, the ultimate escape from the ordinary. Get away from
the beaten path, conquer rugged terrain, defy the elements, and transport yourself
to your ideal destination. It’s exactly what you’d expect from a Baja Mobility
product—bold, fearless, and ready for anything

Image collage of the Baja Bandit shown in tan, on the left is a full image of the scooter then on the right going clockwise is the tiller, headlight, logo, and console.

The Baja Bandit is unlike anything you’ve ever seen. With its impressive 4.5” ground
clearance, a top speed of 8 mph, and full seat suspension, you’ll experience the
perfect blend of power and agility on every journey. As you ride up to 29 miles on a
single charge with the upgradable dual lithium-ion battery configuration, confidently
maneuver through dirt roads and grass fields with a swift stride and in ultimate
comfort. This unit also includes features such as feather-touch disassembly, an
infinite tiller adjustment lever and a full bumper package. You can bet this scooter
will forge new trails like never before!
We’ve dared to be daring with the Baja Bandit, and now you can too. Hop on and set
forth into uncharted territory. The world is yours for the taking, but only if you’re bold
enough to be a Bandit. So, what are you waiting for?
Unleash Your Zoom at http://www.bajamobility.com

*Pride® FDA Class II Medical Devices are designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments.
K0899 Power Mobility Device not coded by DME PDAC. DME providers are responsible for determining appropriate
billing codes when submitting for insurance reimbursement. HCPCS codes provided should not be considered as legal
advice and do not guarantee reimbursement. Payer coding, coverage, and bundling guidelines may apply.

An image that has the text: "it's time to ride. Full speed ahead". 8mph cruising speed, full suspension, 4.5" ground clearance 400 lbs weight capacity, lithium ion battery.

No Limits. No Regrets. Meet the Pursuit 2

LAUNCHING AUGUST 7,2023

Ready to get out there? To revel in off-road fun? To venture anywhere you want?

We’ve got something you’ll want to pursue.


Introducing the Pursuit 2! This is a supremely resilient mobility scooter, designed to
embolden your adventures. The latest, lightest member of the Pursuit line, this
premium mobility unit defies expectations.


The Pursuit 2 comes in three bold color options: Orange, Gray, and Black.
Make it your own. Then own the path ahead.

Built for rough terrain, the Pursuit 2 provides unmatched durability and solid
construction. It’s a force of nature, for sure. It weighs 100 pounds less than the
original and has a lithium-ion battery that makes this scooter a total powerhouse.
With a speed of 9.3 mph and a weight capacity of 400 pounds, the Pursuit 2 proves
that you don’t have to choose between versatility and power.

Wherever your journey takes you, you’ll lead the charge on the Pursuit 2. Equipped
with pneumatic tires mounted on split rims, this scooter absorbs shock and
seamlessly manages aggressive maneuvering. With the memory foam seating, you’ll
want to ride all day and you can with up to a 40-mile range on a single charge with
the dual lithium battery configuration.


Where you take the Pursuit, and where the Pursuit takes you, is entirely up to you.


*Pride® FDA Class II Medical Devices are designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments.
K0899 Power Mobility Device not coded by DME PDAC. DME providers are responsible for determining appropriate billing codes when submitting for insurance reimbursement. HCPCS codes provided should not be considered as legal advice and do not guarantee reimbursement. Payer coding, coverage, and bundling
guidelines may apply.

My Week at the Masters

The Masters Tournament is very special for the PGA Tour because it marks the beginning of the major championships. There are four majors in a year: The Masters, US Open, British Open, and the PGA Championship. The Masters is held annually at Augusta National Golf Club.

In 2006, my dad and I had the pleasure of going to Augusta for the week. It was an incredible experience. I was so thrilled to be a part of Masters history. When we arrived in Georgia, I was amazed by the number of private jets present. The next day, we headed to Augusta National, but first we had to go through strict security measures. Once we entered the premises, our first stop was the merchandise tent. I joked with my dad that money wasn’t an issue; this might be our only chance to visit again.

Photo of MJ at the Masters Tournament in Augusta. He is wearing a yellow striped polo and is seated on a Pride Mobility Products Scooter. There is a sign behind him that says "Welcome to Augusta and a potted plant on the left of him.

After purchasing everything I wanted, I decided to explore further. Upon approaching the first tee, I was astounded by its beauty. Seeing Augusta in person far exceeded what I had seen on TV. On the following day, we arrived early to secure a parking spot, knowing how important it is during the Masters.

When we set foot on Augusta National’s property, we immediately headed to the first tee. To my surprise, they had actually reserved the first tee for me, which made me incredibly grateful. Throughout the day, my dad and I remained at the first tee, having the most enjoyable time in a long while.

Since they knew about my mobility issues, they wanted me to have the opportunity to witness Tiger Woods approach the first tee. In 2015, we brought my mom along to Augusta, she had a blast. We spent our time on the first tee watching every golfer begin their round. The experience was even better with my mom by our side. It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m glad that she got to witness the breathtaking beauty of Augusta National. That year, Jordan Speith emerged as the champion.

One of the best things about Augusta was that they provided scooter rentals for those in need, and I believe it was a fleet of Pride Scooters, I own a Pride Mobility scooter and am quite familiar with the brand so this was comforting to see. I was thrilled to see such accommodations because Augusta can be quite challenging to navigate on foot. I am incredibly grateful to be a part of Pride Mobility since they do so much for people with disabilities.

Nowadays, every tournament has accessible areas where everyone can fully enjoy the event. Augusta National holds a special place in my heart not only because of its beauty but also because of the kind-hearted people. I highly recommend visiting Augusta someday to truly appreciate its magnificence. It’s remarkable that each hole is named after a flower, something not commonly seen at other tournaments.

Written by: MJ McColgan

Spotting and Avoiding Medical Equipment Scams

Pride Mobility has long been proud to offer industry-leading durable medical equipment (DME) such as power wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and power lift recliners. Many of our products are classified as “FDA Class II Medical Devices” designed to aid individuals with mobility impairments. They are also coded for billing purposes, which means they may be reimbursable through Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance if the criteria for coverage are met.

Insurance is big business. Medicare alone spends billions of dollars each year on DME, as millions of individuals across the country rely on these products for mobility assistance following an evaluation and prescription from their doctor.

Unfortunately, because of the nature of this business, fraudsters and scammers often attempt to take advantage of exploiting Americans’ health care concerns for personal enrichment. It’s of utmost importance to understand how these scam artists operate and how to spot the signs of a potential scam when navigating the DME market.  

Beyond that, these tips and tricks are handy under any circumstances, as it’s important to identify fraud in general when looking for products and services that best meet your needs.

Too Good to Be True

This is one of the wisest and oldest maxims in the book: if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. If you’re scrolling online and you come across an advertisement for a mobility device, be sure to check the “deal”. Pride only makes products available through authorized dealers who abide by the parameters set forth to ensure consumers are allowed to have a genuine shopping experience that focus on obtaining the right product to meet their needs.

“You can notice this if you go online or shop locally with our dealers,” said Kris Yonushka, Manager, E-Commerce, Strategic Sales and Consumer Support. “They are required to maintain” standards that help you choose the outlet from which you buy – whether from a local, regional, national, or online provider – without the price pressure that fails to take into account the critical product and service alternatives offered by these different outlets.

We’re proud to partner with our authorized dealers, who act as our trusted partners in assisting individuals with their medical needs. That means, if you’re researching mobility products online and notice a Pride product listed for a suspiciously low amount, like $100, it’s too good to be true, likely a scam. And it is best to avoid clicking any links with unrealistic price listings.

For instance, WXIA in Atlanta recently profiled an individual with mobility needs who raised questions upon seeing a scooter listed for $39. This story is a great example of the kind of fraud that you may encounter online.

Don’t Give Away Personal Information

Sometimes, fraudsters will attempt to extract personal or financial information, posing as someone that represents Pride Mobility. This is a major red flag and a clear warning sign that a scam is in progress.

“You want to be wary of anyone that calls and tries to get this type of information from you,” said Yonushka. “We would never ask for any protected health or financial information. We do not sell directly to the consumer, so [be mindful of] anyone who may pretend or claim to be from our organization, because we would not do that.”

As a general rule of thumb, never give out any personal information to someone you don’t know, whether solicited online or over the phone.

Can the Seller Be Trusted?

We mentioned Pride’s vast network of authorized dealers. We’ll discuss them further in a moment, but first, let’s say you come across an advertisement for a mobility device from a company that you’re not sure is reputable. What are some of the signs that could indicate that the offer is a scam?  

  • Lack of Online Reviews: There’s not much information available online about the business, such as a lack of public reviews. An abundance of poor reviews can also be an obvious sign that you’re not dealing with a reputable operation.
  • Vague Details: The seller is light on details regarding the transaction, such as payment structure or the validity of the equipment.
  • No Warranty: There’s no guarantee or official warranty that protects you in case something happens to the product.

  There are several other warning signs that a seller should not be trusted, but ultimately, it’s up to you to conduct enough research to make sure you’re dealing with a reputable seller.

Go Through our Trusted Dealers

As you shop around, the safest way to know you’re getting the right deal on a power wheelchair, mobility scooter, or power lift recliner is to visit our website and use our “Find a Dealer” tool.

“We have two channels in which [consumers] can utilize that,” Yonushka said. “They can enter their zip code, and it will give a listing [of brick-and-mortar locations] where they can buy products. The listings will provide, an address, phone number, and some might give links to their website.”

The second channel, as Yonushka points out, gives consumers the option to buy online. There, users can access our trusted online partners.   By utilizing the Pride Mobility website directly, you can be sure that you’ll be seeing legitimate offers from real places.  

Use Common Sense!

Unfortunately, as long as business exists, there will be scammers attempting to take advantage of the system. And this goes well beyond the mobility device market. At the end of the day, the best way to avoid scamming activity is to use common sense. Remember, when seeking out a mobility device…  

  • If it’s too good to be true, it probably is.
  • Never give away your personal information.
  • Go through our trusted dealers.

  As a parting thought, Yonushka offers simple advice to those who might be wondering if they’re being scammed: “You have to do your due diligence. Be vigilant. Double check everything.”

Winner Winner! Jazzy® EVO 613Li, Jazzy® EVO 614HD Earn Awards

At Pride Mobility, our unwavering mission is to manufacture industry-leading products to meet all your mobility needs. Consumer inspiration is at the heart of everything we do.

With that, we’re thrilled to tell you that the Jazzy® EVO 613Li and the Jazzy® EVO 614HD have been recognized by Mobility Management as 2023 Mobility Product Award winners!

The Jazzy EVO 613Li won in the “Power Wheelchairs, Group 2, Standard” category, while the Jazzy EVO 614HD won in the “Power Wheelchairs, Group 2, Heavy-duty” category.

The Jazzy EVO 613Li combines power with maneuverability. Its Active-Trac® suspension and exclusive Mid-Wheel 6® technology offer a smooth, stable ride over uneven terrain, while its narrow 22-inch base and 22-inch turning radius allow you increased freedom in many environments.

The Jazzy EVO 614HD boasts a 450-pound weight capacity but still reaches an impressive top speed of 4.88 mph. With three inches of ground clearance, 13.75-inch drive tires, and Active-Trac suspension, it too offers enhanced performance over more varied terrain.

While we are humbled by this distinction, we will never rest on our laurels. Relentless innovation and passion drive us to discover new standards, set new limits, and constantly seek improvement, all with the goal of providing you with exceptional products and service that meet your mobility needs.

Remarkably Fast, Ridiculously Good Looking: Introducing the Baja Raptor 2 4-Wheel

LAUNCHING JULY 31, 2023

You’ve gone off-road in the Wrangler. Zipped around in the Raptor. You know Baja®
means bold. Baja means better. Baja means business.

But did you know Baja had something bigger in store?

Introducing the Baja® Raptor 2 4-Wheel: an innovative mobility device designed to
carry you in comfort, ease, and style. Tough enough to withstand the great outdoors
but sleek enough to elicit envious stares, the Baja Raptor 2 4-Wheel does it all.

As with every unit in the Baja line, this latest model will tackle terrain with ease,
holding up to any hard-packed surface. But unlike prior models, the Baja Raptor 2
4-Wheel boasts a shock-absorbent full suspension system for superior stability,
traction, and comfort.

The Baja Raptor 2 4-Wheel offers speed that’s second to none. Cruise up to 13 mph
and feel the wind in your face. Don’t be fooled by the generous underseat storage or
400 lb. weight capacity. We’ve engineered the 4-Wheel for optimal speed, adaptivity,
and safety all at once.

But the 4-Wheel isn’t satisfied with the essentials. Like you, it’s built to go the
extra mile.

Whether you hit the sidewalk or coast to a local cafe, it’s up to you.
It’s your Baja. It’s your journey. It’s your life.

Whether you hit the sidewalk or coast to a local cafe, it’s up to you.
It’s your Baja. It’s your journey. It’s your life.

Power Wheelchair vs. Mobility Scooter

For those in need of mobility assistance, it can be easy to confuse an electric wheelchair with a mobility scooter. To the untrained eye, they look and sound similar, and they operate in a similar way. But when considering what mobility device is right for you, it’s important to understand that there are significant differences between the two.

Pride® Mobility has long been proud to offer multiple options in both categories, and we’re here to help you and your physician make the most informed decision so that you can be on your way to living your best.

The Basics

Though both power wheelchairs and mobility scooters share the same function – helping people who require some level of assistance get from one place to another – they’re not interchangeable. Some people will be better suited to using an electric wheelchair, while others will benefit more from a scooter.

Power wheelchairs are preferred by individuals who struggle to remain on their feet for long periods of time or suffer from debilitating conditions that reduce mobility in their upper body, arms, and legs. Users rely on this device to be their main method of transportation, as they have extensive accessibility needs. The world-renowned Jazzy® line of Pride® products is strictly comprised of power chairs, including the Jazzy® EVO 614, the Jazzy® Carbon, and the Jazzy® 600 ES.

Mobility scooters are preferred by those who may be experiencing pain and are looking for some assistance in getting around. While a scooter provides valuable help, users of this type of product typically are not relying on the scooter to be their main source of transportation. Think of it as a “simpler” version of an electric wheelchair. The Pride® lineup of mobility scooters includes the i-Go™, the Zero Turn 10 4-Wheel, and the Go-Go® Endurance Li.

Driving

When simply looking at the products, the most obvious difference is how the devices are operated by the user. Electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters are controlled and driven in different ways.

Power wheelchairs are operated and controlled with the use of a joystick, located on either the right or left armrest. This can be operated with one hand, so it’s best suited for those users who lack the strength to propel a manual wheelchair, and those who don’t have full upper body control.

Mobility scooters are operated with the use of a “tiller” that contains handlebars. Therefore, users must have enough upper body strength to “steer” the scooter with their hands and arms and the ability to hold their arms out for long periods of time.

Structural differences

Whereas all mobility scooters either have three or four wheels, electric wheelchairs will typically have four to six wheels. On a wheelchair, you’ll notice two large drive wheels. Depending on where these are located, the chair will utilize a rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, or mid-wheel drive system. These are supported by smaller wheels called casters, for added stability.

Power wheelchairs come with foot platforms that can be adjusted for height and can flip up when not in use. Mobility scooters have fixed leg support, but other adjustments can be made to increase leg room and comfort, including seat sliders and tiller adjustments. As a rule of thumb, three-wheel scooters offer more legroom due to the central position of the single wheel in the front.

Image of a woman seated in a Jazzy Air 2 power wheelchair outside with three people walking around her. They are going around the corner of a paved area.

Padded, captain’s style seating is standard on electric wheelchairs and additional seating options may be available, depending on the model. They’re more spacious and contain larger seats and armrests. Mobility scooters typically have vinyl seating that can be adjusted or may be able to swivel.

Indoor/Outdoor use

While both power wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be operated indoors and outdoors to various degrees, your preference may depend on where you will be primarily using the product.

Because electric wheelchair users typically spend a significant amount of time in their chair, the product is designed to be convenient for indoor use. These wheelchairs have a smaller turning radius in order to navigate tight hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, and other common areas within a home. They also allow you to pull up closely to tables and other surfaces.

Mobility scooters, on the other hand, have a larger turning radius are not typically used to maneuver through tight spaces. Therefore, they’re not as convenient for home use, though they can be used indoors in larger areas.

However, these products are designed to be more rugged, which allows for outdoor use in a variety of environments. They’re also common for travel since many break down into several pieces for storage or transportation. And since users of mobility scooters don’t rely on them as their main method of transportation, they’re popular as a means of getting around outdoors either around the neighborhood, down the block, or while on vacation.

In summary, electric wheelchairs are more suited for indoor use, while mobility scooters are more suited for outdoor use, though both can be used in various environments, depending on the surroundings.

A DME (Durable Medical Equipment) provider will guide you to what product will suit you best by doing a home assessment evaluation to make sure you choose the correct mobility device.

Cost

Medicare or Medicaid may cover a portion of the cost of a mobility device classified as durable medical equipment (DME) if it’s deemed to be medically necessary for use inside of a home. This requires a face-to-face examination with a physician to determine the medical needs of a potential user.

Typically, Medicare or private insurance will only provide coverage for those users that require assistance with activities of daily living around the house. So, for users whose physicians prescribe an electric wheelchair, insurance is likely to cover some of the cost.

Because mobility scooters are geared more toward outdoor use and for those who are otherwise mobile and able to perform functions of daily living inside the home, they’re unlikely to be covered by Medicare or private insurance.

Which is right for you?

Electric wheelchairs are preferred by those who struggle with everyday mobility and require assistance in performing the functions of daily living. The joystick control is also engineered for those who may lack upper body strength. They are the user’s main method of transportation.

Mobility scooters are better suited for those who may be fine getting around the house and living comfortably without assistance but may struggle with walking long distances. They’re not the user’s main method of transportation but can provide help in navigating outdoor environments.

Ultimately, the best way to get started is to schedule an examination with your physician, who can help you determine the mobility device that’s right for you. Pride® Mobility is proud to partner with mobility dealers all across the country, whose experts can also help guide you in the right direction for products that are more specifically suited to your needs.

To find a dealer near you, and to view our diverse lineup of power wheelchairs and mobility scooters, visit www.pridemobility.com today!