Wheeled Walker

A wheeled walker is similar to the adjustable walker except that it is equipped with wheels. This feature allows the patient to glide if he or she lacks the strength to lift the walker.

HCPCS Code:

E0143 - wheeled walker
E0149 - heavy duty wheeled walker

Category:

Inexpensive/Routinely
Purchased

Common Diagnosis:

(check for current coding)

781.2 Gait Abnormality
340.0 Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
715.9 Osteoarthritis
428 Congestive Heart Failure

Coverage Information

Requires a Detailed Written Order

The patient has impaired ambulation and there is a potential for ambulation

The patient has a mobility limitation that significantly impairs his/her ability to participate in one or more mobility-related activities of daily living (MRADL) in the home; AND

Patient requires additional stability not provided by canes and crutches (see cane / crutch criteria) AND can safely use a walker

The mobility deficit can be resolved with a walker

E0149: If a heavy duty wheeled walker (E0149) is provided and if the supplier has documentation in their records that the patient’s weight (within one month of providing the walker) is 300 pounds or more, the KX modifier should be added to the code. The KX modifier may only be used when these requirements are met – documentation is the file re: weight.

E0158: Leg extensions added as an additional code, when there is documentation that the patient is greater than or equal to 6 feet tall.

E0156: Used when a platform seat attachment is added to the walker – no additional requirements if qualified for a walker.

E0147: A heavy duty, multiple braking system, variable wheel resistance walker (code E0147) is covered for patients who meet coverage criteria for a standard walker AND who are unable to use a standard walker due to a severe neurologic disorder or other condition causing the restricted use of one hand. Demonstrate via diagnosis code. The claim should be submitted with a narrative comment in Box 19 to include the manufacturer’s name, and model name/number of the product.

Note 1: A patient is not covered for an ambulatory aide such as a cane or walker AND a wheelchair at the same, UNLESS there is documentation in the medical record that the patient is in a gait retraining program via physical therapy. In that case, the wheelchair would be covered for a maximum of 6 months. Ensure that the patient is in physical therapy for gait retraining, and enter "Pt. in gait retraining w [name of rehab facility]" in box 19 of the narrative record.

Documentation Requirements: in addition to the basic Medicare documentation (proof of delivery, AOB, detailed written order, etc.)

• The detailed written order form must contain the patient’s name, and a description of the item provided, physician signature and date, and the start date of the order if different than the physician signature date.