Clinical Seating Evaluation
A comprehensive clinical assessment to ensure your custom power wheelchair meets your exact medical and postural needs.
What is a Seating Evaluation?
A seating and mobility evaluation is a clinical assessment performed by a licensed physical or occupational therapist, often in collaboration with an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). The evaluation assesses the patient's posture, strength, skin condition, transfer ability, and capacity to operate a power wheelchair safely.
Why is it Required?
Medicare requires a seating and mobility evaluation as part of the documentation for any Complex Rehab Technology power wheelchair. Without a completed evaluation from a licensed therapist, the prior authorization request cannot be submitted.
What the Therapist Evaluates
- Posture and trunk support needs
- Skin integrity and pressure injury risk
- Upper extremity function and ability to operate a joystick or alternative drive control
- Cognitive ability to navigate a power chair safely
- Home environment accessibility
Pressure Mapping Technology
During the evaluation, pressure mapping technology may be used. A sensor pad placed on the cushion visually displays pressure distribution across the seating surface, allowing the therapist and ATP to identify high-risk areas and select the appropriate cushion or power seating function.
Pressure Injury Statistics
95% of all pressure injuries are preventable with proper positioning and equipment. Wheelchair users who cannot independently perform weight shifts are at the highest risk and benefit most from power tilt and recline systems.
