Wheelchair Van Funding
Understanding Insurance
Does insurance pay for wheelchair van conversions?
The question we are asked most frequently is, “Does insurance pay for wheelchair van conversions?” And the answer is, “It depends.” There are two reasons this question does not have a simple “yes” or “no” answer. First, there are many different types of insurance, from auto insurance to worker’s compensation insurance. Some insurance benefits do include financial compensation for wheelchair van modifications, while others do not. Second, for the types of insurance that do cover vehicle modification expenses, the person will have to meet certain criteria to qualify. These qualifications will vary by both the type of insurance and the entity providing it.
In order to give you a complete answer to this question, let’s take a deep dive into seven common types of insurance coverage:
| 1. Auto Insurance |
| 2. Disability Insurance |
| 3. Health Insurance |
| 4. Home Owner's Insurance |
| 5. Medicaid |
| 6. Medicare |
| 7. Worker's Compensation |
Auto Insurance
Does auto insurance cover wheelchair van conversions?
In Michigan, the state’s no-fault insurance system provides coverage for adaptive vehicle modifications required after an injury from a catastrophic car accident. This is because Michigan’s no-fault insurance law requires insurers to provide “reasonable and necessary” benefits to injured parties, which can include coverage for adaptive vehicle modifications.
According to Michigan’s Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS), no-fault insurance policies must provide coverage for “all reasonably necessary products, services and accommodations for an injured person’s care, recovery, or rehabilitation.” This includes adaptive vehicle modifications such as wheelchair lifts, hand controls, and other specialized equipment needed to accommodate the needs of an injured person.
It’s important to note that the specific coverage and limits of a no-fault insurance policy can vary, so it’s important to review the terms and conditions of your policy or contact your insurance provider for more information on coverage for adaptive vehicle modifications.
The approval process for an insurance provider to authorize the requested vehicle modifications can be challenging. Many people seeking a wheelchair accessible van or vehicle modifications to accommodate injuries from a catastrophic car accident utilize the services and resources of an attorney specializing in Michigan auto no-fault law as well as a nurse case manager. Additionally, there are several organizations in Michigan that can provide resources for auto accident survivors.
Case Management Society of America (CMSA)
The Case Management Society of America (CMSA) is a professional organization that serves case managers in healthcare and related fields. The organizations local chapter work to promote the professional development of case managers, enhance their knowledge and skills, and provide networking and support opportunities. The Michigan chapters are CMSA - Detroit and CMSA - Greater Grand Rapids & Kalamazoo
Some of the specific activities and initiatives of CMSA include:
- Educational events: The chapter organizes workshops, seminars, and conferences on topics related to case management, such as care coordination, patient advocacy, and utilization management.
- Networking opportunities: Members of the chapter have the opportunity to connect with other case managers in the region, exchange ideas and best practices, and build professional relationships.
- Advocacy and public policy: The chapter participates in advocacy efforts to promote the interests of case managers and the patients they serve, and to influence public policy related to healthcare and case management.
- Community outreach: The chapter engages in outreach and volunteer activities to promote the health and well-being of the community, such as health fairs and educational programs.
- Awards and recognition: The chapter recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions of its members through awards and other forms of recognition.
Both Michigan chapters of CMSA provide valuable resources and support for case managers in the region, helping them to enhance their professional skills and advance their careers, while also promoting high-quality, patient-centered care.
Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault (CPAN)
The Coalition Protecting Auto No-Fault (CPAN) is an advocacy organization based in Michigan, United States, dedicated to protecting and preserving Michigan's no-fault auto insurance system. Michigan is one of the few states in the US that has a no-fault auto insurance system. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, the drivers involved in a car accident are eligible to receive medical expenses, lost wages, and other benefits from their own insurance company. The no-fault system also restricts the ability of injured parties to sue for damages.
CPAN works to protect this system by advocating for legislation and policies that support and strengthen it. They work to ensure that insurance companies are held accountable for providing benefits to those who are injured in car accidents, and they also educate the public about the importance of no-fault insurance. Additionally, CPAN provides resources and support for individuals who have been injured in car accidents and are navigating the complex process of obtaining benefits from their insurance companies.
Rehabilitation Insurance Nurses Council (RINC)
The Rehabilitation Insurance Nurses Council (RINC) is a non-profit organization that provides education and networking opportunities for professionals involved in rehabilitation nursing and insurance case management. The organization is comprised of nurses, medical professionals, and other healthcare professionals who work in the field of disability management and rehabilitation.
RINC members are involved in a variety of areas, including workers' compensation, disability insurance, case management, and rehabilitation nursing. The organization provides members with opportunities to share knowledge, learn about new developments in the field, and collaborate on best practices for patient care.
Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council
The Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council (MBIPC) is a non-profit organization composed of healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and individuals who are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with brain injuries in Michigan.
The primary goal of the MBIPC is to provide education, advocacy, and support for individuals with brain injuries and their families. The organization works to promote the development of comprehensive brain injury programs, raise awareness of brain injury issues, and advocate for legislation that will improve the quality of life for those affected by brain injury.
The MBIPC also provides training and resources for healthcare professionals who work with individuals with brain injuries. This includes educational seminars, conferences, and workshops on topics related to brain injury rehabilitation, community integration, and support services.
Additionally, the MBIPC maintains a network of brain injury providers and advocates who collaborate to improve access to care and services for individuals with brain injuries. The organization also serves as a resource for individuals with brain injuries and their families, providing information and referrals to services and support programs throughout the state of Michigan.
Disability Insurance
Does disability insurance cover wheelchair van conversions?
The answer to this question depends on the specific terms and conditions of the disability insurance policy in question. While most disability insurance policies will not cover the cost of a wheelchair van conversion, some policies may.
In general, disability insurance policies are designed to provide income replacement or financial assistance in the event that the policyholder becomes disabled and is unable to work. They may also provide coverage for certain medical expenses related to the disability, such as rehabilitation or physical therapy. However, whether or not a wheelchair van conversion is covered by a disability insurance policy will depend on the specific terms of the policy. It is important to carefully review the policy documents and speak with the insurance provider to determine what is covered and what is not.
It may also be helpful to look into other sources of funding for a wheelchair van conversion, such as grants, loans, or assistance programs offered by organizations that specialize in providing support to individuals with disabilities.
Health Insurance
Does health insurance pay for wheelchair van conversions?
Whether or not health insurance will cover the cost of a wheelchair van conversion will depend on your specific policy and the reason for the conversion. Generally speaking, health insurance is designed to cover medical expenses related to illness or injury. While a wheelchair van conversion may be necessary for someone with a medical condition, it is not necessarily considered a medical expense. Therefore, it is very uncommon for health insurance providers to cover the expense of a wheelchair van conversion.
However, some health insurance plans may cover the cost of a wheelchair van conversion if it is deemed medically necessary. This typically requires a recommendation from a healthcare provider, and the insurance company will need to approve the claim.
While it is rare for health insurance companies to provide funding for vehicle modifications, there are other sources of funding available that may be able to help cover the cost of a wheelchair van conversion, such as government programs, grants, or nonprofit organizations. It is worth exploring all options to find the best solution for your individual needs.
Health Insurance Providers that May Cover the Cost of Wheelchair Van Conversions and Vehicle Conversions:
MESSA
If MESSA is your family’s health insurance provider, your child may be eligible for MESSA’s Medical Case Management (MCM) program. This program provides members with serious illnesses or injuries with personal support from a registered nurse. MESSA’s MCM nurses work directly with members and their families to ensure they access the right care at the right time and return to their highest quality of life.
If your health insurance provider is not listed, it most likely does not cover the cost of vehicle modifications. However, you should always confirm by contacting your provider’s customer service department and reviewing the Explanation of Benefits for your insurance plan.
Homeowner's Insurance
Does homeowner's insurance pay for wheelchair van conversions?
Whether or not homeowner’s insurance covers the cost of a wheelchair van conversion would depend on the specific terms and coverage of the policy. Generally, homeowner’s insurance is designed to cover damages and losses related to the physical structure of the home, as well as personal property within the home. It may also provide liability coverage in the event that someone is injured on the property. However, modifications to a vehicle, such as a wheelchair van conversion, may not be covered under a homeowner’s insurance policy. To determine if a wheelchair van conversion would be covered by a homeowner’s insurance policy, it would be best to consult with the insurance provider and review the policy’s terms and coverage options.
Medicaid
Does Medicaid pay for wheelchair van conversions?
No, traditional Medicaid coverage does not pay for vehicle modifications or wheelchair van conversions. However, Michigan Medicaid does offer different waiver programs that may be able to provide financial assistance for wheelchair van conversions to eligible individuals.
MI Choice Waiver Program
Sometimes simply referred to as, “the waiver,” the MI Choice Waiver Program began in 1992 as the Home and Community Based Services for the Elderly and Disabled (HCBS/ED) waiver program. With MI Choice, eligible adults are able to receive Medicaid-covered services, like those provided by nursing homes, but can stay in their own home or another residential setting. Additionally, a participant may receive transportation services that include a wheelchair accessible vehicle or modifications to an existing vehicle if the participant requires the service to gain access to medical care, adult day care, or other covered services. The requested vehicle modifications must be deemed medically necessary to meet the needs of the program participant.
However, the specific coverage for a wheelchair van conversion may depend on several factors, including the individual’s medical condition, functional limitations, and transportation needs. Therefore, it is best to contact Michigan’s Medicaid office or your local Area Agency on Aging to determine whether a wheelchair van conversion is covered and to learn about any additional requirements or limitations.
Children’s Waiver Program
The Michigan Medicaid’s Children’s Waiver Program (CWP) may cover the cost of wheelchair van conversions for eligible children. The CWP provides comprehensive services and support to children with developmental disabilities and chronic medical conditions to help them live at home and in their communities.
One of the services provided by the CWP is transportation, which includes the purchase and/or modification of vehicles to accommodate the child’s medical needs. This may include the conversion of a van to make it wheelchair accessible. However, the specific coverage and eligibility criteria for this service may vary depending on the child’s individual needs and circumstances.
Organizations such as Easterseals MORC and The Arc can help determine if a wheelchair van conversion is covered under the CWP for a specific child. They can also provide more information about the CWP and the services available, as well as help determine if the child is eligible for coverage. In addition to the CWP, there are other wheelchair van grants and funding programs available for children with disabilities.
Michigan Area Agencies on Aging
Detroit Area Agency on Aging (1-A)
Serving the cities of Detroit, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Grosse Pointe, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe Shores, Grosse Pointe Woods, Grosse Pointe Farms, and Harper Woods
Area Agency on Aging (1-B)
Serving Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw Counties
Senior Alliance (1-C)
Serving Wayne County
Region 2 Area Agency on Aging (2)
Serving Jackson, Hillsdale, and Lenawee Counties
Area Agency on Aging IIIA (3-A)
Serving Kalamazoo County
CareWell Services Southwest (3-B)
Serving Barry and Calhoun Counties
Branch-St. Joseph Area Agency on Aging (3-C)
Serving Branch and St. Joseph Counties
Region IV Area Agency on Aging (4)
Serving Cass, Berrien, and Van Buren Counties
Valley Area Agency on Aging (5)
Serving Genesee, Lapeer, and Shiawassee Counties
Tri-County Office on Aging (6)
Serving Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties
Region VII Area Agency on Aging (7)
Serving Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Isabella, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac and Tuscola Counties
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (8)
Serving Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola Counties
Region 9 Area Agency on Aging (9)
Serving Alcona, Arenac, Alpena, Cheboygan, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, and Roscommon Counties
Area Agency On Aging of Northwest Michigan (10)
Serving Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford Counties
U.P. Area Agency on Aging (11)
Serving Alger, Baraga, Chippewa, Delta, Dickinson, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Luce, Mackinac, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon, and Schoolcraft Counties
Senior Resources of West Michigan (14)
Serving Muskegon, Oceana, and Ottawa Counties
Medicare
Does Medicare pay for wheelchair van conversions?
No, wheelchair van conversions and vehicle modifications are not covered by Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B). However, wheelchair van conversions may be covered under some Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) plans. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, and the coverage and benefits can vary depending on the specific plan. In general, Medicare Advantage plans must cover all the services that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) covers, but they may also offer additional benefits.
Additional benefits covered will vary depending on the plan and the specific circumstances. Some plans may cover the cost of a wheelchair van conversion or vehicle modification if it is considered medically necessary for the treatment of a specific condition or disability.
To determine if a specific Medicare Advantage plan covers wheelchair van conversions, you should contact the plan directly and ask about their coverage and any requirements or restrictions that may apply. It is also a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if the requested modifications are medically necessary. There are also other options and resources available to help cover the cost.
Worker's Compensation
Does worker's compension pay for wheelchair van conversions?
Michigan’s Workers’ Disability Compensation program may cover the cost of vehicle modifications to accommodate an injury sustained at work, but it depends on the specifics of your case and the requirements set forth by the program.
In general, Workers’ Disability Compensation provides benefits to workers who are injured on the job, including medical expenses, wage loss benefits, and vocational rehabilitation. Vehicle modifications that are necessary due to a work-related injury may be considered a medical expense and covered by the program.
However, to determine whether the program will cover the cost of vehicle modifications, you will need to file a claim and provide documentation of your injury, your need for the modifications, and the cost of the modifications. It is important to note that the program may require that you obtain prior approval before making any modifications to your vehicle, so be sure to check with your claims administrator before proceeding.
Case Management Services
Do you need a case manager after a catastrophic auto accident?
Whether or not you need a case manager after a catastrophic auto accident can depend on various factors, including the severity of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the complexity of your medical treatment.
A case manager is a healthcare professional who can assist you in managing your medical care and recovery after a catastrophic accident. They can help you navigate the healthcare system, coordinate your medical treatment, communicate with your healthcare providers, and help you access any resources or services that you may need to support your recovery.
If you have sustained serious injuries in an auto accident, such as a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or multiple fractures, you may benefit from having a case manager to help you manage your medical care and recovery. Similarly, if your injuries require complex medical treatment or involve multiple healthcare providers, a case manager can help ensure that your care is well-coordinated and that you receive the best possible treatment.
Ultimately, the decision to work with a case manager after a catastrophic auto accident is a personal one and depends on your individual needs and circumstances. It may be helpful to consult with a healthcare professional or attorney to discuss whether a case manager could benefit you in your specific situation. You can also view our frequently asked questions about case managers for more information.
Do I have to pay for a case manager?
No, in Michigan, auto no-fault insurance coverage typically includes case management services as part of the benefits. The cost of these services is generally covered by the auto insurance company, up to the limits of the policy.
Case management services can be a valuable resource for individuals who have been injured in a car accident and need assistance navigating the healthcare system, coordinating medical appointments, and accessing other resources such as home care or rehabilitation services.
It's important to review your auto insurance policy to understand the specific case management benefits and limits that are included, as well as any requirements or restrictions on the use of these services. Your insurance company can also provide information and guidance on how to access case management services if you need them.
How do I find a case manager in Michigan?
After a catastrophic car accident in Michigan, you may need assistance with managing your medical treatment, rehabilitation, and insurance claims. A case manager can help coordinate these services and provide support throughout your recovery. Here are some steps to find a case manager:
- Contact the Michigan Brain Injury Provider Council (MBIPC): The MBIPC is a nonprofit organization that provides information and resources to individuals with brain injuries and their families. They may be able to refer you to a case manager who specializes in brain injury cases.
- Contact a local hospital or rehabilitation center: Hospitals and rehabilitation centers often have case managers on staff who can assist with coordinating care and services for patients.
- Contact a personal injury attorney: If you have hired a personal injury attorney to handle your case, they may be able to refer you to a case manager who can help with your medical and rehabilitation needs.
- Search online directories: You can search online directories such as the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) or the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) to find a case manager in Michigan.
- Contact The Creative Mobility Group: A mobility consultant can provide you with a list of case managers serving your area.
Remember to ask for credentials and experience when choosing a case manager. It's important to work with someone who has the knowledge and skills to effectively manage your case and support your recovery.
Additional Funding Resources
Wheelchair Van Funding Beyond Insurance Coverage
If you are not eligible to receive funding for a wheelchair van conversion through insurance, there are other grants and funding programs available in Michigan and nationwide to assist with purchasing a wheelchair accessible vehicle and adaptive driving equipment. Contact The Creative Mobility Group to find out what opportunities may be available to your family, inclduing finance and trade-in options.
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