Permobil Advocate for More
Breaking News
1. Ensuring Safe Accommodations for Air Travelers with Disabilities Using Wheelchairs
There has been significant advancement in efforts to ensure safe air travel for wheelchair users. A proposed rule was released by the U.S. Department of Transportation on Feb. 28, aimed at safeguarding mobility equipment and the physical well-being of travelers with disabilities. The proposed rule aims to elevate the standards for airlines in providing timely, secure, and respectful assistance to passengers with disabilities. It includes requirements for enhanced training of airline staff and contractors who assist passengers with disabilities and manage their wheelchairs, as well as guidelines for protecting passengers in the event of wheelchair damage during transport.
In order for these proposed changes to come into effect, it is crucial that, "We all submit comments within the next 60 days," emphasizes Alexandra Bennewith, Vice President of Government Relations at United Spinal. "Once that is done, the rule can be finalized. However, it is imperative that disability protections are upheld in this new rule, underscoring the importance of hearing from all of us at the Department of Transportation."
Below is a three-step guide on how to take action on this important issue
1. Visit United Spinal to learn more about the proposed changes.
2. Share your air travel experiences and how the proposed changes would impact you. Comments can be filed on www.regulations.gov, docket number DOT-OST-2022-0144.
3. Be sure to follow Permobil via email and on social media to receive up-to-date information on this and all important industry news.
2. Choices for Increased Mobility Act
A groundbreaking bill was presented on September 8th in the U.S. House of Representatives, offering an opportunity for Medicare beneficiaries to enhance their mobility by upgrading to ultralightweight wheelchair frames made of carbon fiber or titanium.
Known as H.R. 5371, the Choices for Increased Mobility Act of 2023 was introduced by Rep. John Joyce (R-Pa.) with co-sponsor Congresswoman Michelle Steel (R-Calif.) and aims to revolutionize the options available to individuals seeking greater independence.
This legislation represents a significant step forward in empowering Medicare recipients to access cutting-edge technology and enjoy the benefits of carbon fiber or titanium wheelchair frames. Want to learn more about why materials matter in ultralightweigth wheelchairs? Listen to our Wheelchair Nerds podcast on this topic.
3. CMS Coverage for Seat Elevation
On May 16th, the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) made a final decision on coverage for seat elevation. Since that time our internal experts have been collaborating with stakeholders and advocacy organizations to unpack the details of the decision summary and next steps.
On Wheelchair Nerds, there are two episodes on the CMS decision on coverage for seat elevation. Click on the images below to listen to the podcast episodes on this topic:
Potential medical benefits of standing
Spasticity Control: Standing and weight bearing can have the effect of normalizing tone which may lead to increased function.
Pain Reduction: Standing may allow easier access for reaching items throughout the day, which may decrease the risk of repetitive strain injury in the upper extremities.
Urinary/ Bowel improvement: Standing may reduce the incidence of UTI’s and kidney stones by reducing the effects of gravity, and constipation or bowel accidents may be reduced as standing improves the efficiency of the colon.
Range of Motion Improvement: Coming to a standing position involves stretching muscles that have been shortened in the seated position. Standing can allow for a prolonged stretch which may help with minimizing the risk of contractures.
Cardiovascular/Respiratory Improvement: By changing positions and utilizing the standing function frequently throughout the day, it may improve respirations and circulation.
Pressure Management: We see the most pressure reduction at the seated bony prominences when in standing or full recline. Standing provides pressure reduction while allowing for function at the same time.
Bone Mineral Density: Shorter, more frequent standing has been shown to help increase bone mineral density. A standing wheelchair allows for these “intervals” of standing throughout the day as opposed to using a standing frame that is static
Stand without compromise
Product features
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Customizable standing sequences help you find the perfect position using supine, semi-reclined, or sit-to-stand techniques
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Best-in-class base performance with exceptional motor torque, enhanced base stability in sitting and standing & chair responsiveness
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Adjustable chest pad featuring simplified adjustment points
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ComfortRide Pro Suspension featuring all-wheel independent fully adjustable oil dampened shocks that stay active in all positions
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Full range of power seat functions, including: 50° of posterior tilt, 180° of recline, 14” of ActiveHeight seat elevation, and 180° of legrest elevation
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Moldable knee block featuring adjustable height & depth as well as a quick release lever
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Articulating power footplate with 8” of vertical foot plate travel and programmable height to help maintain positioning throughout the range of movement
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Intelligent support wheels deploy automatically for stability in standing
Power your push, your way
Power assist is backed by clinical research. To learn more about the clinical benefits of Power Assist, be sure to check out our Permobil White Paper - A systematic review of the evidence for power assist devices. Some examples of how Power Assist can benefit wheelchair users are:
• Opening doors
• Navigating through uneven surfaces, including carpets and rugs
• Housekeeping
• Taking care of family and pets
• Going up ramps and up to 17% inclines
• Navigating crowds by easily adjusting speeds
• Traveling long distances with minimal effort
Material Science Involved in Finding a Balanced Ride
Frame material choice plays a pivotal role in how someone finds a Balanced Ride in an ultra-lightweight manual wheelchair. It is key because frame choice affects the lightweight, durability, and configuration characteristics of a manual wheelchair. A more in-depth understanding of the materials and their specific application can improve consumer confidence and clinical decision making.
Manual wheelchair frame materials
6000 & 7000 series aluminum
Aluminum became and still is the preferred metal because it was so much lighter than steel and because of its relatively low cost. In the ULMWC industry there are two types of aluminum alloys that are used: 6000 series and 7000 series.
Titanium
Titanium is a metal with the highest strength to weight ratio on the planet. There is literally nothing out there like it. Titanium is not only incredibly strong and durable, it can also be shaped and welded together to match a wheelchair user’s body shape without sacrificing strength.
Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is a lightweight option when it comes to frame material. Chairs made from carbon fiber are woven together in a particular pattern for a specific load purpose. The result is a MWC that not only looks sleek but also is incredibly lightweight and efficient.
