Can You Get a Prescription for an Adjustable Bed in New Zealand?

Many people in New Zealand wonder if they can get a prescription for an adjustable bed - especially if they’re dealing with chronic pain, breathing issues, or mobility challenges. The short answer? Yes, you can. But it’s not as simple as walking into a furniture store and picking one up. There’s a process. And it starts with your health, not your mattress.

Why a Prescription Matters

An adjustable bed isn’t just a luxury item. When prescribed by a healthcare professional, it becomes a medical device - similar to a walker or a CPAP machine. In New Zealand, this distinction opens the door to financial help through public health funding or private insurance. The Ministry of Health and district health boards recognize adjustable beds as assistive equipment for people with conditions like arthritis, COPD, GERD, spinal injuries, or severe sleep apnea.

Without a prescription, you’re buying a bed. With one, you’re accessing a treatment tool. That’s why your GP or specialist needs to confirm the medical need. They’ll look at your symptoms, your mobility, your sleep studies, and whether other treatments have failed. If your condition improves with elevation - like when you prop yourself up to breathe better or reduce acid reflux - that’s a strong sign an adjustable bed is medically appropriate.

Who Can Prescribe It?

Your general practitioner (GP) can start the process, but they often refer you to a specialist. Common prescribers include:

• Respiratory physicians (for sleep apnea or COPD)
• Rheumatologists (for arthritis or back pain)
• Neurologists (for MS or Parkinson’s)
• Physiotherapists or occupational therapists (who assess daily function and recommend equipment)

Occupational therapists are especially important. They visit your home, watch how you move in and out of bed, check your balance, and determine if an adjustable bed would reduce your risk of falls or make daily tasks easier. Their recommendation carries weight when applying for funding.

How to Get Funding in New Zealand

The public system offers help through the Assistive Technology (AT) Funding Scheme, managed by your local DHB. This covers part or all of the cost if you meet eligibility criteria. You’ll need:

• A completed medical assessment form (usually provided by your therapist or doctor)
• Proof of diagnosis
• Evidence that the bed is necessary for your health and safety
• Confirmation that you’ve tried other solutions (like pillows or wedge cushions) and they weren’t enough

Not everyone qualifies. Funding is prioritized for those with high care needs - people who are frail, have limited mobility, or are at risk of hospitalization without the equipment. If you’re under 65 and have a long-term condition, your chances are better. Seniors may also qualify under the Elderly Services program.

If you don’t qualify for public funding, private health insurance (like Southern Cross or nib) might cover part of the cost. Check your policy - some include assistive equipment under ‘home modifications’ or ‘rehabilitation support’.

What Kind of Adjustable Bed Is Covered?

The system doesn’t pay for fancy models with built-in massage or Bluetooth speakers. It covers basic, clinically approved adjustable bases that meet medical standards. These typically include:

• Head and foot elevation (manual or electric)
• Zero-gravity positioning
• Low-profile frame for easy access
• Compatibility with standard hospital-grade mattresses

Brands like Drive Medical, Invacare, or even locally available models from NZ-based suppliers like MedEquip are commonly approved. You won’t get a branded luxury bed like Sleep Number or Tempur - unless you pay the difference yourself.

Some people assume they can just buy one and claim reimbursement later. That’s risky. Always get pre-approval. If you buy without it, you might end up out of pocket.

What If You’re Turned Down?

Not everyone gets approved on the first try. If your application is declined, don’t give up. Ask for a written reason. Often, it’s because the paperwork was incomplete or the medical need wasn’t clearly explained.

Here’s what helps:

• Get a letter from your specialist explaining how the bed improves your sleep, reduces pain, or prevents complications
• Include a photo or video showing how you struggle to get in or out of your current bed
• Ask your occupational therapist to resubmit with more detail on your daily functional limitations

You can also appeal through your DHB’s complaints or review process. Many approvals happen on the second attempt - especially when you provide clear, documented evidence.

Real-Life Example: Maria’s Story

Maria, 72, from Tauranga, has severe osteoarthritis and sleep apnea. She used to sleep propped up on three pillows, but they slipped, and she woke up gasping. Her GP referred her to a respiratory therapist, who recommended an adjustable bed. After submitting her sleep study results and a mobility assessment, her DHB approved funding for a basic electric base. She now sleeps through the night, needs less pain medication, and hasn’t fallen in bed since. "It’s not glamorous," she says, "but it’s changed my life."

What You Can Do Right Now

If you think you need an adjustable bed for medical reasons:

1. Book an appointment with your GP or specialist. Bring a list of your symptoms: pain, breathing trouble, reflux, difficulty turning over.
2. Ask if they recommend an adjustable bed as part of your treatment plan.
3. If yes, ask for a referral to an occupational therapist or physiotherapist.
4. Don’t buy anything until you have approval in writing.
5. Check with your private insurer if you have one.

There’s no rush. The process can take 4-8 weeks. But if you’re struggling to sleep or move safely, starting now means you’ll be ready when approval comes.

Common Myths About Adjustable Beds and Prescriptions

• Myth: "I just need it because my back hurts." Reality: Back pain alone isn’t enough. You need to show it’s linked to a diagnosed condition and that elevation helps.
• Myth: "I’m too young for this." Reality: People in their 30s and 40s with spinal injuries, MS, or severe GERD often qualify.
• Myth: "I can just use a wedge pillow instead." Reality: Pillows don’t offer consistent support. An adjustable bed gives full-body alignment - and that’s what the system looks for.

What Happens After You Get It?

Once you receive the bed, your occupational therapist might schedule a follow-up visit to make sure it’s being used correctly. They’ll check that:

• You can operate the controls safely
• The bed height works with your transfer aids (like a grab rail or hoist)
• The mattress is compatible and provides proper support

This isn’t bureaucracy - it’s safety. A poorly set up bed can cause more harm than good. If you have a hoist or sliding board, your therapist will ensure the bed height matches.

Most funded beds come with a 2-year warranty and free maintenance. If something breaks, contact the supplier - they handle repairs under the funding agreement.

Next Steps if You’re Considering This

Start by talking to your doctor. Don’t wait until your pain is unbearable. The sooner you raise the issue, the sooner you can get help. Bring someone with you to the appointment if you can - it helps to have another set of ears.

If you’re unsure where to start, call your local DHB’s Assistive Technology team. They can guide you through the forms and tell you what documentation you’ll need. You can find their contact info on your DHB’s website under "Assistive Devices" or "Equipment for Home Use."

Remember: This isn’t about comfort. It’s about health. An adjustable bed isn’t a luxury. For many, it’s the difference between sleeping - and surviving the night.