Glossary of Mobility Terms

Specialized input devices used to operate a power wheelchair when a standard joystick cannot be used. Examples include head arrays, sip-and-puff systems, and chin controls.

A certification administered by RESNA recognizing professionals who have reached an internationally accepted standard of knowledge in assistive technology. Medicare and most insurances require an ATP to be involved in the evaluation for Complex Rehab Technology.

Medically necessary, individually configured manual and power wheelchairs, adaptive seating systems, alternative positioning systems, and other mobility devices that require evaluation, fitting, design, adjustment, and programming.

Equipment that can withstand repeated use, is primarily and customarily used to serve a medical purpose, generally is not useful to a person in the absence of an illness or injury, and is appropriate for use in the home.

Wheelchair leg rests that can be adjusted to different angles, often used to manage edema (swelling) in the lower extremities or to maintain proper joint alignment.

A Medicare classification for a specific tier of power wheelchairs designed for patients with severe mobility impairments, typically due to neurological conditions, myopathies, or congenital skeletal deformities. They accommodate advanced seating and electronics.

Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System. A standardized coding system used by medical providers and suppliers to process Medicare and other health insurance claims for medical equipment and supplies.

A detailed document written by a physician and/or evaluating therapist explaining the clinical justification for a specific medical device or service, demonstrating why it is medically required for the patient.

Activities such as toileting, feeding, dressing, grooming, and bathing performed in customary locations within the home. Insurances use MRADL limitations to determine the medical necessity of a mobility device.

A power seating function that changes the seat-to-back angle of the wheelchair, allowing the user to lie back. It is often used for pressure relief, catheterization, and rest.

A clinical assessment tool that uses a sensor pad to measure and display the distribution of pressure between a person's body and their seating surface. Used to identify high-risk areas for pressure injuries.

A requirement by health insurance plans that patients obtain approval for a medical service or equipment before it is provided, ensuring that the service qualifies for coverage.

Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. The premier professional organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of people with disabilities through increasing access to technology solutions.

The clinical practice of assessing a patient's posture, skin integrity, and functional needs to prescribe customized wheelchair cushions, backrests, and postural supports.

A power or manual seating function that changes the orientation of the user in space while maintaining the exact seat-to-back angle. Primarily used for weight shifts, pressure relief, and postural stability.