​Independence Blue Cross and Independence Administrators will update the medical policy on power wheelchairs, power-operated vehicles, and push-rim-activated power-assist devices for Medicare Advantage members retroactively effective on May 16, 2023.

Recently, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services changed its coverage position on Group 2 power wheelchairs with seat elevation from Not Covered to Medically Necessary. Note: Group 2 power wheelchairs with seat elevation will require precertification.

For more information, please view #MA05.032c: Power Wheelchairs (PWCs), Power-Operated Vehicles (POVs), and Push-Rim-Activated Power-Assist Devices, which was published as a notification on September 21, 2023.

Note: Once the policy is published, you can find it on the Medical and Claim Payment Policy Portal by searching for the policy number.​