Individuals with neurologic disabilities deal with a number of challenges in completing activities of daily living. One of the most significant of those challenges is acquiring a mobility device that allows them to maximize
their independence with both mobility and performance of their activities of daily living. For certain of these individuals the adaptive equipment that is often provided may be inadequate to achieve the potential for that
participation and independence.
Neurologic disabilities such as CP, ALS, MS, and SCI figure more prominently in discussions about the impact and importance of complex rehabilitation technology than CVA, yet more than 795,000 people in the United States suffer a CVA annually.
Moreover, stroke reduces mobility in more than half of those over age 65. Medicare qualification requirements and reimbursement cuts have negatively influenced the caliber of wheeled mobility devices CVA survivors receive. Many obtain an upright,
manual wheelchair that qualifies for Medicare rental reimbursement.
It is well documented that manual tilt-in-space wheelchairs provide seat angle adjustments that can facilitate pressure relief, postural control, and activity specific positioning,
but these chairs are often not prescribed due to limitations related to independent propulsion, weight, and transport.
This presentation will explore the research supporting the use of tilt. Topics will include: how changes in seat angle affect posture and pressure distribution, seat height and angle characteristics that impact
self-propulsion, the relationship between independent mobility and incidence of pressure ulcers, and how changes in seat angle can influence activities of daily living. The clinical justification and documentation
requirements for Medicare reimbursement of the E1161 code will be outlined, and participants will be educated on options to achieve the clinical benefits of manual tilt while enabling self-propulsion and transport.
Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:
- Cite 3 aspects of propulsion affected by seat height and changes in seat angle
- Cite 2 elements of the relationship between independent mobility and incidence of pressure ulcers
- Provide 2 examples of how changes in seat angle can impact pressure and affect posture
- Provide 2 examples of how changes in seat angle can affect participation in activity specific ADLs
- Produce documentation that clinically supports Medicare reimbursement of E1161 code
- Course Audience: Dealers, ATPs, Clinicians (OT, PT, COTA, PTA)
- Course Level: Intermediate
- Course Length: 1 Contact Hour
- CEU's Offered: .1 CEU