We Build Complex Rehab Wheelchairs

You can always call us at 216-307-6270 or email us at atp@centralhme.com! 

Qualifying for a CRT wheelchair usually involves several steps and may vary based on your location, health insurance policy, and individual medical needs. Here’s a general idea of what this process might entail:

1. Medical Assessment: The initial step is to have a thorough medical examination done by a physician or a physical therapist. They will evaluate your mobility limitations and how it impacts your daily life activities. This evaluation is crucial to determine if a rehab wheelchair is medically necessary for you.
2. Prescription: If the healthcare professional determines that a wheelchair is necessary for your mobility, they will write a prescription. This prescription usually includes detailed specifications about the type of wheelchair required (manual or powered), any necessary customizations for comfort or functionality (like special seating, tilt, recline, etc), and justification for these features.
3. Insurance Approval: The prescription is then submitted to your health insurance company for approval. The insurer will review the prescription, and if they agree with the medical necessity of the wheelchair, they will approve coverage according to your plan’s specifics. Each insurance company has different coverage rules and processes, so it’s essential to communicate with them directly or have your medical provider assist with this process. This create a clean claim, where we can accurately bill for your equuipment.
4. Fulfillment by a Medical Equipment Provider: Once insurance approval is obtained, the prescription is sent to us where we will supply the wheelchair. We may also conduct their own evaluation (usually by a physical or occupational therapist) to verify the specifications and fit the wheelchair to your needs.
5. Training: After receiving your rehab wheelchair, there should be a period of training to ensure you can use the wheelchair safely and effectively. This training might be provided by a physical or occupational therapist, and can include how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot your new wheelchair.

Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) wheelchairs are specialized mobility devices designed to meet the unique medical and functional needs of individuals with significant disabilities. These wheelchairs are typically categorized into two main types:

1. Complex Rehab Manual Wheelchairs: These are high-performance manual wheelchairs that are custom-fit and configured to match the user’s unique needs. They are highly adjustable and may include a range of individualized components like custom seating systems, pressure relief cushions, special controls, or other unique adaptations. These wheelchairs are designed for individuals who have the upper body strength to propel themselves or those who have a dedicated caregiver to assist.

2. Complex Rehab Power Wheelchairs: These are powered or motorized wheelchairs that can be custom-fit and configured to the user. They can include a range of sophisticated features such as tilt, recline, elevate, or power leg rests to enhance pressure relief, positioning, and function. The controls for these wheelchairs can be highly specialized, including head control, sip-and-puff control, switch control, etc., tailored to the individual’s abilities. These wheelchairs are designed for individuals who lack the strength or coordination to manually propel a wheelchair.

Both types of CRT wheelchairs aim to provide the highest level of comfort, functionality, and independence for users with complex needs. The best type of wheelchair will depend on the individual’s medical condition, functional capabilities, and lifestyle requirements. As such, a comprehensive evaluation process involving healthcare providers and assistive technology professionals is crucial when prescribing a CRT wheelchair.

After receiving your CRT wheelchair, you can expect a period of training to ensure you can use the wheelchair safely and effectively. This training might include instruction on how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot your new wheelchair, typically provided by a physical or occupational therapist. 

Furthermore, Central HME and your healthcare team will provide you ongoing support for any adjustments, repairs, or replacements needed to ensure your CRT wheelchair continues to meet your needs effectively!