The TEAMS behind your Medical Equipment

Any time you want something done right, you need a team behind you.  Whether it is a medical procedure, a legal matter, or acquiring new equipment- you need a team to ensure that the job is done right.

Seating and Mobility Equipment can be intimidating, and the process painful and confusing.  A team with the knowledge and experience in this area is essential.  There are two teams, the one that helps you select and provide you with your equipment and the one that keeps it working for the equipment's useful life.

The initial team would consist of  you, your physician, a physical, occupational and possibly a speech therapist, your family, caregivers and the equipment supplier. Each of these individuals are crucial in providing information to ensure that the equipment fulfils your needs, and your goals.  You are responsible for helping the team what your goals/desires are for your future, what you need your equipment to do to keep up with your life demands.  Your physician will need to provide a history, and any goals/concerns that they have. The Physical and Occupational Therapist(s) bring information on body posture, functional capability, and expected prognosis.  These clinicians perform a functional assessment and are very involved with the equipment prescription. Your family and caregivers need to voice their concerns about function, equipment and accessibility issues. The supplier brings equipment knowledge and works directly with all involved to help recommend the most appropriate equipment based on all the information that is gathered.

This team works really hard to trial and document the equipment, which is sent to the insurance for consideration.  This team works with the insurance provider to provide any additional documentation that is needed to receive an approval. On delivery, the Equipment supplier works with the user, the clinicians, and the caregivers to adjust and optimally fit the equipment.

Once the equipment is used on a daily basis, the technical service department because the support team to help maintain, adjust and repair the equipment; until such time the equipment is worn out and needs to be replaced. 

In the event that the equipment no longer fits, or there is a change of condition, the user is referred back to the physician and clinical team to review the equipment and make any recommendations on changes needed.

This article was written by Carey J. Britton, ATP/SMS, CRTS at Active Mobility Center. Active Mobility Center is a Seating and Mobility Specialty company located in Pompano Beach, Florida. Carey can be reached at (954) 946-5793 or at cbritton@wheelchairguys.com .