As someone who lives with a physical disability, adaptive equipment plays an essential role in my life. The type of equipment I use is known as Complex Rehab Technology.
According to The National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) products are medically necessary , individually configured devices that require evaluation, configuration, fitting, adjustment, and/or programming.
These devices are intended to fulfill the specific and unique medical, physical, and functional needs of people who have a variety of disabilities. Some common diagnoses that can require CRT include Muscular Dystrophy, Spinal Cord Injuries, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and Cerebral Palsy among others.
CRT refers to individually designed manual wheelchair systems, power wheelchair systems, seating and positioning systems, and other adaptive equipment such as standing devices and gait trainers.
In my case, I currently use a Quantum Rehab Edge 3 Stretto power wheelchair equipped with a seat elevator, laterals, a headrest and elevating leg rests. I also use an R82 Crocodile gait trainer as my primary means of mobility.
Unfortunately, receiving this type of equipment is often a lengthy process. I am currently trying to receive a new gait trainer. The process has already been delayed by more than a month due to an outdated prescription.
I am scheduled to go back to my physical therapy clinic on Monday afternoon. My PT has already written the letter of medical necessity but he still has to submit it to my insurance company. Once the letter is submitted, I must wait for my insurance company to decide whether or not the request is approved.
Two years ago I received my current power wheelchair. I was evaluated for a new wheelchair in November of 2019. After multiple appeals, and a fundraising campaign for the seat elevator, the wheelchair was delivered in March of 2021.
It shouldn’t have taken 18 months for me to receive the wheelchair. Nobody should have to wait that long for medical equipment. With every delay, a person’s health and safety could be at risk.
Without this equipment, I wouldn’t have any way to move independently. I would be stuck in bed. If I wasn’t in bed, I’d rely on other people to move around.
My equipment is designed to meet my specific needs. A standard wheelchair or gait trainer wouldn’t work for me. People’s needs also change over time which is why it’s important that equipment works well.
I used my old power wheelchair last year, and sitting in it for a few hours caused severe pain. My current wheelchair offers more postural support. My current wheelchair has two thoracic lateral supports rather than one.
For disabled people, wheelchairs and other mobility equipment are often a lifeline. I wish more non-disabled people recognized the importance of medical equipment. It is more than medical equipment. The right equipment allows disabled people to live their lives and participate in society.
Source:
“About NCART.” The National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology, The National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology, http://www.ncart.us/about-us. Accessed 14 Oct. 2023.