New Wheelchair Clinic

I was happy to see a project finally beginning after a year of discussion with Nova South Eastern University. I had met with Adrienne Lauer, OT and professor with Nova to discuss a need in our community. There are several clinics for children to educate and monitor seating, mobility and posture; however there is little access for adults. In my over 20 years of service in the community, we continue to see and hear issues with access, and issues with satisfaction.  After a few discussions, the goal was to create a clinic at Nova to not only provide these needed services, but also create a place that may bring new clinicians and technicians together to ensure access and exertise for future generations.

With a bump in the road at Nova for space to hold this clinic, we had approached the Broward Center for  Independent Living to be a site for this seating/mobility clinic.  After some discussion and planning; and with the help of the CIL, we introduced the clinic on August 30th, 2013.  

Our Launch was successful bringing in people with canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and powered mobility equipment. The concept was well received, with several people making appointments for the next clinic, and several others wanting to tell their friends and families about this valuable service.

This new concept is still in it's infancy, and will be guided by the community for it's direction.  Several members of the audience indicated that when they received their equipment, they didn't know what they needed and left it up to the therapist and equipment company. They were anxious to learn more and to be able to advocate for themselves.

The intent of this clinic is to reach people in the community who do not know where to go for help with their mobility and seating needs.

This article is written by Carey J. Britton, seating and mobility specialist with Active Mobility Center. He can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or cbritton@wheelchairguys.com