How Much Does a Home Hospital Bed Cost Without Insurance?
Key takeaways:
Home hospital beds vary in price from $500 to more than $5,000, depending on features. Basic models are more affordable, while electric and bariatric beds cost more.
You can rent a home hospital bed or buy one based on your needs. Renting typically starts at $200 per month. Pre-owned options are available at discounted prices.
If you need financial assistance, low-cost or free home hospital beds may be available for those without health insurance through charitable programs and community health organizations.
Table of contents
A home hospital bed is classified as durable medical equipment (DME) — essential items for use at your residence. In addition to hospital beds, DME also includes walkers, scooters, wheelchairs, canes, blood pressure monitors, and oxygen machines.
If you don’t have insurance, the cost of a new home hospital bed ranges from $500 to more than $5,000, depending on the type and features. Pre-owned hospital beds are sometimes available at a significant discount. You might qualify for a low-cost or free hospital bed through charitable organizations. Most DME providers offer financing options, and many companies offer hospital beds for rent.
The type of bed influences the cost and functionality. Standard home hospital beds work well for most people, while bariatric models are designed for those weighing over 350 lbs. Both types come in several models to fit different needs, including manual, semielectric, and fully electric beds.
How much does a home hospital bed cost?
The cost of a new home hospital bed usually ranges from $500 to over $5,000, depending on the model and features. This price usually includes the bed frame but not the mattress, safety rails, or extra features. You can save by shopping around for the best price, including taxes, delivery, and other fees. Hospital beds designated for home care typically cost less than hospital beds used in a medical setting. Some may be listed specifically as home care beds.
If you’re buying a new hospital bed, items will be sold separately in most cases. For example, a used hospital bed might come with the mattress, rails, and pull bars that were purchased by the previous owner. If you’re buying new items for a pre-owned bed frame, each one ranges from about $40 to several hundred dollars, depending on the quality and type of accessories. You may have fewer options if you choose a hospital bed that is compatible with a limited number of accessories.
If you’re looking to reduce costs or need the hospital bed for a limited time, pre-owned models and rental options are often available. This makes it easier to find a bed that fits your needs and budget.
Does insurance cover durable medical equipment? Durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches, is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Can I get medical equipment if I don’t have insurance? There may be a program near you that offers hospital beds, shower chairs, walkers, and other medical equipment for rent or that will lend you the items at no cost.
Will Medicare pay for a wheelchair? Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage plans cover most of the cost of a manual or power wheelchair for eligible enrollees.
Home hospital bed item cost estimates
Item | Cost estimate (New) | Cost estimate | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
Manual hospital bed | Less than $700 | Hand-crank operation | |
Semielectric hospital bed | Less than $400 | Partially electric operation; motor controls for some features | |
Electric hospital bed | $1,000 or less, but could be more for some models | Fully electric operation | |
Bariatric manual bed | About $600 | Less than $600 | Hand-crank operation, but most bariatric beds are at least partially electric |
Bariatric semielectric bed | About $1,300 | Less than $1,000 | Partially electric operation |
Bariatric electric bed | Fully electric operation | ||
Mattress | Less than $200 | Foam is 6 inches or thicker; may include pressure padding and powered features | |
Mattress topper | Less than $100 | May include gel components | |
Bedside handle, rails, or pull bar | Less than $40 | Per pair of rails or per bar or handle | |
Overhead trapeze stand and bar set | Less than $300 | Can be a higher price for freestanding sets, particularly bariatric units, that don’t attach to the bed | |
Overbed tray table | Less than $50 | Adjustable height | |
Mattress protector | Less than $50 | Fluid proof; price varies based on mattress size and depth |
Note: Prices are subject to change. Your total cost may include taxes, delivery, and other fees.
What are the different types of home hospital beds?
Hospital beds come in several types, designed for different home-health needs. There are two main categories of hospital beds: standard beds and bariatric beds (for individuals who weigh more than 350 lbs). Both types offer models with different levels of adjustability and functionality.
Manual beds
Manual hospital beds are the most affordable option. They require using a hand crank to adjust the position of the head, knee, and foot of the bed as well as the height. But manual beds are typically good options only for individuals who do not need much assistance or who have help available because it takes some physical strength to operate the crank.
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Semielectric beds
With semielectric hospital beds, users can adjust the head, knee, and foot of the bed with a power control; height adjustments typically require a hand crank. These beds provide some convenience and are more affordable than fully electric models.
Electric beds
Electric hospital beds are fully adjustable using a power controller. Users can easily change the height as well as the head, foot, and knee sections by pushing a button. Some models include features like USB charging for an extra fee.
Bariatric beds
Bariatric beds are designed to provide extra support for people 350 lbs or more. These heavy-duty beds are wider and have sturdier, reinforced frames. The majority of them are electric or semielectric, but you might be able to find manual models (particularly pre-owned ones) online.
What features does a home hospital bed usually include?
Home hospital beds are designed with adjustable features that make positioning easier, reduce pain, and prevent bed sores. These are especially helpful for people with limited mobility. Most home hospital beds allow adjustments to the height, head, knee, and foot sections. The level of adjustability and added features vary depending on the type of bed.
Premium features
Some electric home hospital beds come with advanced features, including:
Zero gravity positioning for optimal pressure relief
Under-bed lighting for nighttime visibility and safety
USB ports for charging devices
Inversion technology for therapeutic needs
Will Medicare or other insurance cover the cost of home hospital beds?
Original Medicare
Medicare Part B will partially cover the cost of a home hospital bed if you meet these conditions:
A doctor writes a prescription order for the bed.
The doctor and the company supplying the bed are enrolled in Medicare.
You have paid the annual Medicare Part B deductible.
After Medicare approves the home hospital bed and you have paid the yearly deductible, you pay 20% of the cost of the bed. Medicare will pay the other 80%.
Here are other factors to keep in mind:
You may be able to rent or buy the bed, depending on your needs.
If you have a Medicare supplement insurance plan (Medigap), you can file a claim for your portion of the cost if you have Part B out-of-pocket coverage.
Medicare Advantage
Most Medicare Advantage plans cover home hospital beds that are deemed medically necessary. Check your plan for specific coverage.
Other insurance
Many commercial insurance plans also cover home hospital beds when they are determined to be medically necessary. You need to find out whether your purchase requires preapproval. If you have Veterans Affairs healthcare coverage, the entire cost of a home hospital bed may be covered for a diagnosis that makes this equipment medically necessary.
What about renting a hospital bed for home use?
If you need a hospital bed for only a short time, renting can be a cost-effective option. Many medical-supply companies have hospital beds for rent, and a healthcare professional can recommend reliable rental providers. Some deliver within a limited service area.
Rental costs vary based on location and bed type, but they typically start around $200 a month. Keep in mind that renting long term can add up and could even exceed the cost of buying a new bed. Some companies offer discounts for extended rentals, making it easier to find an affordable option.
Can I get a free or low-cost hospital bed for home use?
Yes, you can get a free or low-cost hospital bed for home use. There are retailers called medical thrift stores. Many of these stores are nonprofits, but some are for-profit businesses. The nonprofit operations often have donated items. Much of the inventory is pre-owned, but some of the items are new. You will not need a prescription because you are paying with cash or other personal resources.
Medical thrift stores
Some medical thrift stores in the U.S. include:
Goodwill Home Medical Equipment (Bellmawr, New Jersey): This warehouse sells refurbished and discounted home medical equipment, including home hospital beds.
Medcy.org (Houston): A nonprofit thrift store offering new and gently used medical equipment.
Other free and low-cost options
There are other organizations in the U.S. that specifically help people with disabilities, veterans, and older adults access home hospital beds at low or no cost. Some even ship items across the country.
Start with the list of organizations below. Ask them for information about people in your area who may be able to help you find a free or low-cost home hospital bed. Some can help you access a home hospital bed, but they do not accept home hospital bed donations.
REquipment, which serves Massachusetts.
Convalescent Aid Society lends medical equipment in the Los Angeles area for free. But it charges for items not considered reusable, such as mattresses.
Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization offers electric and manual hospital beds for $500 to $800. This organization sells donated items from a store in Fargo, North Dakota.
St. Louis HELP provides free, recycled health equipment through a lending program at multiple locations in the St. Louis area. The organization specifically asks donors for Invacare hospital beds.
Frequently asked questions
Home hospital beds and mattresses come in a few sizes to meet different needs. Standard models usually accommodate mattresses that are 36 inches wide by 80 inches long, which is slightly narrower than a twin bed. For heavier and larger people, bariatric beds can have mattresses as wide as 54 inches. Home hospital beds and mattresses can also come in custom sizes.
There are several hospital bed alternatives for those who need adjustable support but don’t require a full hospital bed setup. Options like adjustable beds and lift recliners offer comfort and positioning flexibility. Adjustable beds have functionality similar to hospital beds. Recliners and support rails provide mobility assistance without taking up as much space.
The main differences between a hospital bed and a home hospital bed are adjustability and style. Hospital beds are designed for patient care. Home hospital beds offer more features for comfort, caregiving, and blending with decor.
The bottom line
Without insurance, a new home hospital bed can cost $500 to $5,000 or more. For more affordable options, many people rent, borrow, or buy a pre-owned home hospital bed instead. Medical thrift stores sometimes sell new and refurbished hospital beds at discount prices. Some organizations offer loaner beds, but you might need to pay for a mattress and delivery.
For those with insurance, original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans cover part of the cost for eligible enrollees. If you qualify for Veterans Affairs healthcare coverage, you may be able to get a hospital bed at no cost. Keep in mind that essentials like mattresses and safety rails are often not included in the price of a home hospital bed.
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