2025 HCPCS code K0821

Portable group 2 power wheelchair with captain’s chair, patient weight capacity up to and including 300 pounds.

Prior authorization may be required.Evaluation for wheelchair requiring face-to-face visit with physician can be billed using G9156.

Modifiers such as RR (rental) may be applicable.

Medical necessity is established by demonstrating the patient's limitations and their inability to perform activities of daily living without the assistance of a power wheelchair.

The supplying provider is responsible for documenting the medical necessity of the device, including a face-to-face encounter and the patient's limitations.

IMPORTANT For non-portable version, use K0823. For other Group 2 power wheelchairs with varying weight capacities, see K0820-K0843.

In simple words: This code covers a portable electric wheelchair with a captain's chair for individuals weighing up to 300 lbs.It's for those who have difficulty with daily activities, can't walk, and can't use a manual wheelchair due to limited arm strength.

This code covers the supply of a portable group 2 power wheelchair with a captain's chair, for patients weighing up to 300 pounds.It is used for patients with impaired ability to perform activities of daily living, who are unable to walk, and whose upper extremity strength is too limited to propel a manual wheelchair. The provider must document a direct face-to-face encounter and the medical necessity for the power wheelchair.

Example 1: A patient with multiple sclerosis experiences progressive weakness in their legs and arms, making it impossible to walk or use a manual wheelchair. The physician prescribes a K0821 power wheelchair to maintain their mobility and independence., An elderly patient with severe arthritis and limited upper extremity strength requires a power wheelchair for mobility within their home and community.A K0821 is prescribed due to its portability and weight capacity being appropriate for the patient., Following a spinal cord injury, a patient requires a portable power wheelchair for mobility during rehabilitation and for long-term use. A K0821 is chosen due to its portability features, allowing the patient to transport it easily.

Documentation must include a face-to-face evaluation, the patient's inability to ambulate or use a manual wheelchair, the medical necessity for a power wheelchair, and the patient's weight.

** Power wheelchairs are grouped by various factors including size, obstacle height maneuverability, speed, range, and stability. Group 2 power wheelchairs are designed for more challenging terrain and longer ranges than Group 1.

  • Specialties:Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, Neurology
  • Place of Service:Office, Home, Skilled Nursing Facility, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, etc.
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