CurrentBlue Cross Blue Shield - Rhode IslandPolicy N/A

Knee Walker / Kneeling Crutch (Mobility Aid) Reimbursement

This policy governs reimbursement/payment for knee walkers and kneeling crutch devices (hands‑free crutch substitutes) as durable medical equipment rentals for members of Blue Cross Blue Shield - Rhode Island; benefits may vary by group/contract.

Policy Summary

PayerBlue Cross Blue Shield - Rhode Island

PolicyKnee Walker / Kneeling Crutch (Mobility Aid) Reimbursement

Policy CodePolicy N/A

Change TypeNo material change

Effective DateN/A

Next Review DateN/A

Key ActionFile claims with the RR modifier; claims filed without RR will be denied.

SourceLink

POLICY UPDATE CHANGES

No material clinical or coverage changes in this revision.

4 monthsmaximum rental period

rental onlypayment basis

RR requiredbilling requirement

multiplepublication history

Coverage Criteria

Trek Health ingests and normalizes Transparency in Coverage data and payer policy updates to give provider organizations a clear view of how commercial reimbursement behaves across markets, payers, and services. Our platform transforms raw payer disclosures into structured intelligence that supports contract evaluation, payer negotiations, and service line strategy. By combining market benchmarks with ongoing policy visibility, Trek helps teams identify variability, risk, and opportunity in commercial reimbursement. The result is faster insight, stronger negotiating positions, and more informed financial decisions.

ALL of the following

Member is non-weight bearing on one extremity following a below-the-knee injury or condition
Member is unable to safely use a standard walker or crutches
Rental is limited to 4 months for short-term rehabilitation
Claims must be filed with the RR modifier; claims filed without RR will be denied
Benefits may vary by group/contract; verify member benefit booklet, Evidence of Coverage, or Subscriber Agreement for applicable DME coverage

Documentation note: Document clinical rationale that the member is non-weight bearing and cannot safely use standard assistive devices; retain benefit verification evidence

Definitions

Knee walker / kneeling crutch definition

DefinitionA hands-free device with a platform at knee height (with pads and straps) that allows a patient to rest the knee and propel and steer the unit, enabling non-weight bearing mobility of an injured lower leg.

Common formMost knee walkers resemble a scooter with an elevated platform to rest the knee and handlebars to steer the front wheels.

ComponentsPlatform with pads, straps to secure the leg, a metal support bar at ~90 degrees, and a rounded rubber foot or wheels at the distal end.

Intended useProvides stability and mobility for members who are non-weight bearing on a lower extremity and unable to safely use crutches or a walker.