VA, Medicare & HCPCS E0110: How Crutch Coverage Works

If you’re a veteran or on Medicare or Medicaid, your crutches may be reimbursable as durable medical equipment (DME). The category is well established, but how you get covered depends on your plan and your provider. Here’s the general picture.

The code: HCPCS E0110

Forearm crutches fall under HCPCS code E0110 (“crutches, forearm, includes crutches of various materials, adjustable or fixed, pair, complete with tips and handgrips”). This is the billing code payers use to recognize them as covered DME.

How reimbursement generally works

There are two common paths:

1. Supplier bills your plan directly. Some DME suppliers bill the VA, Medicare, or Medicaid on your behalf, often with a doctor’s order.
2. You buy and self-submit. You purchase the crutches, then file a claim for reimbursement with your plan. Many premium-crutch sellers use this model.

Either way, you’ll usually need a prescription or order from your provider and may need the E0110 code on the paperwork.

What to ask before you buy

• Does my plan cover E0110, and what’s my share of the cost?
• Do I need a prescription or a face-to-face visit first?
• Does this seller bill my plan, or do I pay and self-submit?
• Is the specific model eligible?

Picking the crutch

Coverage aside, you still want a crutch that fits how you’ll use it. Start with the best forearm crutches comparison or take the quiz.

This is general information, not insurance or medical advice, and not a guarantee of coverage. Coverage varies by plan and situation. Confirm details with your provider and your plan.