What National Seating & Mobility is and how to use it

National Seating & Mobility is a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier that sells wheelchairs, scooters, lift chairs, and related mobility devices. The company operates both online and through physical locations in multiple states. You can order directly from their website, by phone, or in person — and if your wheelchair is covered by Medicare or private insurance, NSM can often bill your insurance directly rather than asking you to pay upfront.

The company's main value is handling insurance paperwork on your behalf. When you order through NSM, you provide your insurance information, and they submit the claim to Medicare or your plan. If your device is covered, you typically pay only your copay or coinsurance. If it is not covered, NSM will tell you the out-of-pocket cost before you commit to the order.

NSM also stocks common wheelchair models in their warehouses, which means some items ship faster than custom-built chairs from other suppliers. Delivery times vary by location and device type — standard items may arrive in days or weeks, while custom wheelchairs take longer.

Key Takeaways

  • National Seating & Mobility bills Medicare and private insurance directly, so you only pay your share of the cost rather than paying the full price upfront.
  • You will need a prescription from a doctor or physical therapist before NSM can process an order, regardless of whether insurance is involved.
  • Medicare covers manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters under specific conditions, but NSM cannot tell you whether your device qualifies — only Medicare or your insurance plan can make that decision.
  • If you are not insured or your device is not covered, NSM will quote you the cash price so you know the total cost before ordering.
  • Delivery and setup vary by state and device; ask NSM for a timeline specific to your location and the wheelchair model you want.

How to order a wheelchair through NSM

Start by getting a written prescription from your doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist. The prescription should specify the type of wheelchair you need — for example, "manual wheelchair with seat cushion" or "power wheelchair with tilt function." Without a prescription, NSM cannot process your order, and Medicare will not cover the device even if you pay for it yourself.

Contact NSM by phone, website, or in person with your prescription and insurance card. Tell them the device you want and provide your insurance information. NSM will check with your insurance company to see whether the device is covered and what your out-of-pocket cost will be. This step usually takes one to three business days.

Once NSM confirms coverage and cost, you can place the order. If the wheelchair is in stock, it may ship within days. If it is custom-built to your measurements, expect two to four weeks or longer. NSM will give you a shipping date when you order.

When the wheelchair arrives, NSM typically arranges delivery and basic setup — for example, adjusting seat height and armrest position. Some locations offer in-home delivery; others require you to pick up at a warehouse. Ask NSM about delivery options in your area when you place the order.

What Medicare covers through NSM

Medicare Part B covers manual wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and scooters if a doctor prescribes them as medically necessary. "Medically necessary" means the device helps you move around your home or perform daily activities because of a medical condition — not because you want extra comfort or convenience.

Medicare typically covers one wheelchair per five years. If you already received a wheelchair through Medicare in the past five years, you may not be covered for another one unless your condition has changed significantly. NSM can check your coverage history when you call, but only Medicare can make the final decision about whether your specific device is covered.

Medicare also covers certain accessories — seat cushions, backrests, and footrests — if they are prescribed as part of the wheelchair order. Upgrades beyond what Medicare considers standard (such as premium cushions or custom paint) are usually your responsibility.

If you have a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan in addition to Original Medicare, your supplemental plan may cover costs that Medicare does not. NSM can bill both plans, but you will need to provide information about both policies.

What to do if NSM says your device is not covered

If NSM tells you that Medicare or your insurance will not cover your wheelchair, you have three options: pay the full cost out of pocket, ask your insurance company to reconsider, or look for a different device that is covered.

To request reconsideration, ask NSM for the reason your insurance denied coverage. Common reasons include: the prescription did not specify medical necessity clearly enough, you already received a wheelchair recently, or the model you chose is considered a luxury upgrade. If the reason is a vague prescription, ask your doctor to write a more detailed one explaining why you need that specific device.

If you choose to pay out of pocket, NSM will quote you the cash price. This price is usually lower than what they bill insurance, because insurance companies negotiate rates. Ask NSM for a written quote before you commit.

If cost is a barrier, you may also explore whether a nonprofit organization in your area loans or donates wheelchairs. The National Disability Rights Network and local disability advocacy groups sometimes maintain equipment lending programs.

Comparing NSM to other wheelchair suppliers

NSM is one of many DME suppliers that accept insurance. Other large national suppliers include Invacare, Pride Mobility, and regional medical equipment companies. The main differences are inventory, delivery speed, and customer service reputation.

NSM's advantage is that they stock common models and can often ship faster than smaller suppliers. Their disadvantage is that they are a for-profit company, so their prices reflect that — nonprofit suppliers or equipment lending programs may cost less if you pay out of pocket.

If you have a specific wheelchair model in mind, call multiple suppliers to compare delivery time and out-of-pocket cost. If you are unsure which model you need, ask your physical therapist or occupational therapist for a recommendation — they often know which suppliers have the best reputation in your area and which models work well for your condition.

Common mistakes to avoid when ordering through NSM

The biggest mistake is ordering without a prescription. NSM will not process your order, and if you pay out of pocket, Medicare will not reimburse you later. Always get a written prescription first.

The second mistake is assuming NSM can tell you whether your device is covered. NSM can check with your insurance company, but they cannot make coverage decisions — only your insurance company or Medicare can. If NSM says "it looks like you are covered," that is not a may provide. Wait for written confirmation from your insurance company before you commit to the order.

The third mistake is not asking about delivery and setup costs upfront. Some NSM locations charge extra for in-home delivery or assembly. Ask for the total cost — including delivery — before you order.

The fourth mistake is ordering a wheelchair without trying it first. If NSM has a showroom near you, visit and sit in the model you want to order. If you are ordering online, ask NSM whether they offer a trial period or return policy in case the wheelchair does not fit your needs.

What happens after your wheelchair arrives

When NSM delivers your wheelchair, they will do basic setup — adjusting seat height, armrests, and footrests to fit your body. They will also show you how to operate it, fold it (if applicable), and perform basic maintenance like checking tire pressure.

If you need adjustments after delivery, contact NSM. Minor adjustments are usually free if done within a short time after purchase. Major repairs or modifications may cost extra.

Keep your receipt and warranty information. NSM wheelchairs typically come with a manufacturer's warranty that covers defects for one to three years, depending on the model. If something breaks during the warranty period, contact NSM to arrange repair or replacement.

If your wheelchair stops fitting your needs — for example, your condition changes and you need a power chair instead of a manual one — talk to your doctor about a new prescription. You may be covered for a replacement if enough time has passed since your last wheelchair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order from NSM if I do not have insurance?

Yes. NSM will quote you the cash price for any wheelchair. The price is usually lower than what they bill insurance companies, but you will pay the full amount upfront. Ask for a written quote before you order so you know the total cost.

How long does it take to get a wheelchair from NSM?

It depends on the model and whether it is in stock. Standard wheelchairs in inventory may ship within days or a week. Custom wheelchairs built to your measurements typically take two to four weeks. NSM will give you a specific timeline when you place the order.

What if the wheelchair does not fit when it arrives?

Contact NSM when ready. They can make adjustments to seat height, armrests, and footrests at no charge if done soon after delivery. If the wheelchair is fundamentally the wrong size or model, ask about NSM's return or exchange policy — policies vary by location and whether insurance paid for it.

Do I have to use NSM, or can I order from a different supplier?

You can order from any DME supplier that accepts your insurance. Medicare and most private plans do not require you to use a specific supplier. If you prefer a different company, call them directly with your prescription and insurance information.

What if Medicare denies my claim after NSM bills them?

NSM will notify you of the denial and explain the reason. You can ask Medicare to reconsider, or you can appeal the decision. NSM can help you understand the reason, but you will need to contact Medicare directly to file an appeal. Your doctor can also submit additional information to support your case.