Proposed LCD Changes to Impact Seat Elevation on Group 2 Non-Complex Power Wheelchair Bases

Published in Government Relations on February 23, 2026

The DME Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) issued a proposed Local Coverage Determination (LCD) change for seat elevation use on group 2 non-complex power wheelchair bases (K0830, K0831 and K0108 on group 2 non-complex HD bases). 

They are proposing to change the policy for these to be not reasonable and necessary which would eliminate the current policy of "at the MACs discretion.” Since seat elevation was changed from non-covered to covered on May 16, 2023, seat elevation has been covered and benefitted those patients who qualify for complex as well as non-complex power wheelchairs. This proposed change does NOT impact seat elevation on K0835-K0864 power wheelchair bases as these are considered complex.  

The MACS are hosting a virtual meeting on Wednesday, March 25 from 9 – 11 a.m. CST to discuss the proposed LCD changes, and the public comment period is open through Saturday, April 4.  

Register Here

Issue Description - PMD LCD 

The proposed LCD proposes a not reasonable and necessary determination for Group 2 power wheelchairs (PWCs) with seat elevation systems (K0830 and K0831), based on the best available evidence. Per the National Coverage Determination (NCD) 280.16 Seat Elevation Equipment (Power Operated) on Power Wheelchairs, coverage of Group 2 PWCs with seat elevators would be determined at the MAC’s discretion. 

Issue Description - Wheelchair Options LCD  

The proposed LCD proposes a not reasonable and necessary determination for the use of seat elevation added onto non-complex power wheelchairs, based on the best available evidence. The proposed LCD proposes to include, in the coverage criteria for power tilt and/or recline seating systems, examples of clinical conditions that limit the beneficiary’s ability to perform a functional weight shift. Per National Coverage Determination (NCD) 280.16 Seat Elevation Equipment (Power Operated) on Power Wheelchairs, coverage of power seat elevation equipment for individuals who use Medicare-covered power wheelchairs other than complex rehabilitative power-driven wheelchairs would be determined at the MAC’s discretion. 

MACs Article

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