How Much Wheelchair Vans Cost And How To Pay For Them
Wheelchair-accessible vans allow for easier smoother transportation of handicapped individuals. With essentially all the same functions of a standard van, wheelchair-accessible vans also typically have a ramp or lift installed.
Purchasing a wheelchair-accessible van is different than buying a normal car off the lot at a dealership. There are several independent companies that solely produce wheelchair vans. Another option is to purchase a standard van and convert the vehicle to enable wheelchair access.
The main concern about wheelchair accessible vans pertains to the cost, will Medicare pay for a wheelchair van? Read on to learn more.
How Can I Get Help To Pay For A Wheelchair Van?
So, how can I pay for a wheelchair van? Paying for a wheelchair van is the main concern for handicapped individuals who need access to mobility resources. There are numerous solutions that can help collect and find funds for wheelchair-accessible vans.
If you aren’t sure yet which type of wheelchair van is the best for you, browse these products for a better idea.
Grants
One solution to finding the funds for affording a wheelchair van is through grants. There are several charities and organizations with programs that help people access wheelchair mobility equipment.
Several non-profit organizations lend a hand in the process. Grants can vary depending on income or certain disabilities. Additionally, there are some grants and programs exclusive to disabled veterans to help with their costs.
The PASS Program
If you obtain Social Security Income (SSI) the PASS program might be for you. PASS stands for Plan to Achieve Self Success. They help individuals meet their predetermined goals. Whatever that goal is, they will distribute monthly payments to you to help reach the goal.
The PASS program website features a live responding agent to answer any questions or concerns you have regarding what you qualify for. They have a one and two-step program that varies by what best suits your needs and considerations.
Will Medicare Pay For A Wheelchair Van?
Medicare is a government program that provides funded health care. The program generally covers those ages 65 and over, or people who are below that age and live with a disability. Medicare insurance is available regardless of their income level.
Wheelchairs are sometimes covered in full with Medicare or partial payments may be received to help cover the cost. Unfortunately, the same does not apply to wheelchair vans. However, in some states, Medicare will help with the cost of conversion to a wheelchair van.
Medicare is divided into 4 parts, each serving different functions. It allows for patients to choose a health plan that is most beneficial to them and their needs. With parts A, B, and D, you may be able to qualify for transportation assistance which may partially cover the wheelchair conversion process.
Contact someone from your provider to see what, if any, coverage you can get towards wheelchair-accessible vans.
Parking And Driving
Parking and driving a wheelchair-accessible van should be considered in the purchase. A side entry or rear entry factors into where and how you are able to park the van.
There are additional factors such as considering either a ramp or lift feature to the van. Depending on the type and style of the wheelchair the user has will impact this as well.
Conversion
If you are considering purchasing a standard van and converting it to a wheelchair-accessible van there are steps and elements that are a part of this.
Not every van and wheelchair is a one size fits all solution. Each conversion process will be different, and finding the right mobility parts and installation will take time and research.
The number of individual conversions required will depend on the size and style of the van, lift or ramp, wheelchair, etc. The most significant change involves lowering the original frame of the van floor several inches to allow for a comfortable and easy entrance for the wheelchair.
There’s an option to have the ramp be accessible from the side passenger door, or from the trunk area in the back. Most users have reported the side entry works best regarding convenience.
Benefits of converting to a side entry include easier parallel parking, drivers or passengers that use a wheelchair, and in accordance with being open to conversion.
Rear entry wheelchair vans are convenient for perpendicular parking, passengers in a wheelchair, and people that are looking for minimal conversions.
Conversion rates will vary. The price will fluctuate depending on how many modifications and leisure elements desired.
The technology of the conversions will also depend on the type of car, and what type of parts they require.
Maintenance
Understanding your van’s maintenance schedule is important to ensure you make the most of the money you put into the purchase. Wheelchair vans require much more maintenance and upkeep than your standard vehicle.
The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association recommends you get your vehicle checked out by professionals to save money, save time, and to protect yourself.
FIND WHAT WORKS FOR YOU
With all of the options out there, take your time in assessing all the possibilities and what fits best with your needs, as well as your financial abilities. Will Medicare pay for a wheelchair van? In short, the answer is no.
Reach out to various organizations and nonprofits to apply for grants and funds that are designed for these specific reasons.
Additionally, check with your Medicare health plan provider to see what plan you currently have and if they can provide you with partial payment for a wheelchair-accessible van.
For further questions or concerns, services are offered via phone call, text message, or email all available at your disposal for your convenience.
