Wheelchair transportation allows millions of Americans with mobility disabilities to participate in daily activities and community life. We know this improves physical and mental well-being and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note there are different aspects and situations in our life where our wheelchairs take the brunt of the damage.
A wheelchair should ideally be safe, dependable, and match your activity goals and functional needs. It should provide strong postural support and seating that prevents pressure injuries. You may wish to self-propel a manual wheelchair depending on your strength and endurance. Alternatively, you may require a mobility scooter or power wheelchair propelled by a battery-powered motor, possibly with sip-and-puff operational assistance or a chin-operated trackball.
However, regardless of complexity, all wheelchairs can fail, leaving their users stranded. Factors such as broken pavement, insufficient curb cuts or soft terrain, steep inclines and inclement weather, and poor wheelchair design almost certainly contribute to this.
In one study of 591 spinal cord injury wheelchair users, 64% reported needing at least one wheelchair repair in the previous six months. Wheels and casters posed the most difficulties for manual wheelchairs. Electrical and power/control systems were the most problematic for powered wheelchair users. Wheelchair breakdown rates increased in recent years and vary by manufacturer.
This problem should get addressed immediately. As such, let us work together to advocate for stronger laws that provide us with quality repair services by professionals. In the meantime, while you wait to get your wheelchair fixed, allow our transportation for disabled persons to take you to your destinations.
Safety 1st Medical Transport offers non-emergency medical transportation in Camarillo, California. We aim to ease everyone’s access to safe NEMT.
We also offer ambulatory transportation, wheelchair transportation, and gurney transportation in Ventura County, California.
