Electric Wheel Chairs

Those who only use a wheelchair for the short term will just need a basic, manually operated model. Those who will be confined for a longer period however will probably need to make use of electric wheel chairs for a number of reasons.

Electric wheel chairs, or electric mobility scooters, take many different forms. The most common form of course is that of an actual wheelchair. On this model the motor will be below the seat, and though the wheelchair itself will be much heaver, it will be easier to move by the operator. This type will normally be controlled by a joystick located on the arm of the chair, and is powered by a battery. The upside to owning an electric wheel chair of this type is that in the event you need to climb out of it, it will be much simpler to do so as the front is wide open.

The other type of power wheelchairs are closer to a mobility scooter. This type of wheelchair is much more convenient because it can be easily disassembled and packed away for either travel or storage. The unit is also much lighter, which means most people prefer it over the other, more conventional type of electric wheelchair. In contrast to the other type of electric wheel chair, this variant is not wide open in the front. There will typically be a steering column in the direct front, and whether or not this is an inconvenience depends highly on the person operating the device. This type of chair will also move faster than the more conventional type simply because it gets better traction.

As you can see, both of these chairs have their benefits. The one you get is up to you, but most people are leaning toward the mobility scooter model rather than the wheelchair model simply because it is easier to travel with the scooter. One thing that does not change between them however is the price.

Insurance Coverage or Medicare

You will find that these chairs and scooters can cost up to $3,000 apiece, meaning they are far beyond pocket change. Motorized wheelchairs will definitely set you back unless you are covered by your health insurance carrier or you are eligible under Medicare. Health insurance carriers are willing to help you obtain an electric wheel chair if you actually need one. Some people who are temporarily unable to walk due to an accident or surgery opt for electric wheelchair rentals instead of buying one.

Before you can do this, you will need to visit a doctor and have your condition assessed. If you have already done this, you could have your doctor speak to your insurance company, or the company that is selling the device can prepare the documentation and submit it to your insurance company. Many companies will work with your insurance carrier, and in fact many actually have arrangements worked out.

In most cases you will be given the opportunity to choose which type of electric wheel chair you would like. You have the option of choosing the faster and more versatile scooter if you want, but you need to take a look at yourself first. If you have trouble getting out of a chair in the first place it would probably be best to choose a wheelchair model.

For more information on the proper chair for you, it would be best for you to consult your doctor and see what he or she recommends. As far as chairs go, you have plenty of options when it comes to brands. There are also some chairs that carry more weight than others, so make sure it will be suitable for you. Just remember that you should choose something that suits you, and not something that has a good price tag. You will be stuck with your electric wheelchair for many years to come, and you want to make sure that you will actually have a decent working relationship with this motorized companion.