WC User, Seating, & Mobility Procurement

who might require a wc?

any age, variety of medical dx, inability or limited ability to walk

Wheelchair needs can be basic, intermediate or complex based upon

Balance/postural control in sitting

Ability to achieve neutral sitting posture

Degree of postural support required

what level of need pt has good sitting balance (hands-free sitter), Neutral posture w/o support, No additional postural supports required

basic wc needs

what level of need pt has Fair sitting balance (needs hands for support), Achieves close to neutral posture, needs postural supports

intermediate wc needs (mild CP, little tone in 1-2 jts, TBI w/ little tone, hypotonicity, 1 contracture)

what level of need pt has poor sitting balance, Unable to achieve neutral posture, needs custom supports

complex wc needs (CP w/ ton of tone/contractures, dystonia, progressive disease: MS/ALS, TBI w/ severe tone)

Wheelchair MUST meet the

mobility, positioning, & environmental needs

what are some considerations of needs for Person-Technology (wc) Match?

mobility, ability to access community life, health (sitting), self-esteem/confidence

Wheelchair Seating and Mobility Team members

Patient

Caregiver/Family

Physician (ultimate prescriber)

PT/OT

Rehab technology provider (vendor)

Knowledge Contribution from medical team

knowledge of physical needs

Knowledge Contribution from RTP

knowledge of how tech can match needs

Knowledge Contribution from pt/caregiver

personal values, preferences, ect

Seating & Mobility Procurement Process involves identifying need & make referral: PT/OT, PCP; as well as assessment from PT eval →

Prescription/selection

Funding/ordering: justify medical needs (every feature of chair)

Product preparation: vender construct chair (3-6 months); loaner chair

Fitting: essential step to ensure positioning/posture

User training: pt/family/caregiver education → Maintenance, repairs, follow up (vendors info)