Will insurance cover my hinged knee brace?

Many insurance plans cover hinged knee braces when prescribed by a physician for a documented knee injury or post-surgical recovery. Coverage varies widely—some plans cover the full cost, others require copays, and some exclude braces classified as sports equipment rather than medical devices. Obtain a prescription from your orthopedic surgeon and have the brace supplier verify coverage with your insurance company before purchasing. Custom-molded braces are more likely to be covered than off-the-shelf models.