Clinical Assessments and Evaluation
What is a Rehabilitation Technology Supplier (RTS)?
Custom Healthcare and Gulf Coast Rehab employs Rehabilitation
Technology Suppliers (RTS) who are specialists in assistive
and rehabilitation technology including manual and powered
mobility, seating and alternative positioning, ambulating
assistance, environmental control and activities of daily living.
The Assessment Process
After listening to and determining our clients and clinicians goals, our Rehab
Technology Suppliers provide equipment options to address your mobility and
positioning needs. During the assessment process, they will:
- Evaluate the patient with a physical therapist at home or in a facility (the
physical therapist fills out a Functional Mobility Evaluation at the time of
evaluation) - Assess the patient's home to determine specific needs and make sure the
home is wheelchair accessible - Compile specifications and medical documentation
- Research insurance and/or alternative financial support
- Order equipment to specification from manufacturer(s)
- Provide equipment for simulation and clinical trials when required
- Deliver, adjust and instruct patients on proper/safe use of equipment
Pressure Mapping
Custom Healthcare and Gulf Coast Rehab provide
comprehensive seating and positioning services through our
trained seating specialists. We can assist in determining optimal
selection and seating design as well as positioning of support
surfaces.
Using CONFORMat®, a portable interface pressure mapping system capturing
seat and back pressure distribution and contact areas, our seating specialists can anticipate pressure in high-risk areas and monitor progression and treatment of wounds. Following a pressure mapping assessment, we can offer a number of aids to lower pressure and reduce the incidence of ulcers and tissue deterioration as well as reduce healing time for existing sores, ulcers and wounds and other complications related to seating and positioning.
Reimbursement
Custom Healthcare and Gulf Coast Rehab provide Medicare and other insurance reimbursement services to patients free of charge. Our Rehab Technology Suppliers’ knowledge of Medicare and other insurance reimbursement allowances for manual and power wheelchairs provide peace of mind to customers knowing their mobility device will be covered. We work closely with patients, physicians and their licensed therapists to ask questions and identify needs based on the diagnosis.
Custom Healthcare and Gulf Coast Rehab also verify insurance eligibility, determine if a co-pay is required and consider financial hardships. Following the evaluation, our specialists obtain quotes from manufacturers, verify that all components will work together, and ensure measurements line up with equipment prescribed.
We help customers understand the maximum allowed reimbursements for certain products as well as those that are not covered. Our staff will provide a written order within 45 days after completion of the examination in order to expedite reimbursement.
Repairs and Safety
Custom Healthcare and Gulf Coast Rehab’s trained Rehab Technology Suppliers can service most any make or model of wheelchair, whether it is a power, manual, lightweight or scooter. For your convenience, repairs to your wheelchair can be made at your home, healthcare facility, school or workplace as well as any of our locations. To schedule a repair, call your nearest location.
As with any equipment, your wheelchair requires a few basic safety checks to keep it working safely. Here are a few tips and basic guidelines to help maintain your wheelchair:
- Keep your chair free of excess dirt, mud, moisture, and road salt. Once a month and other times as needed, wipe your wheelchair with a damp cloth and general purpose cleaner.
- Inspect your wheelchair to ensure all nuts, bolts, and attaching hardware are properly tightened.
- Ensure your wheel locks are properly adjusted and confirm the large wheels lock securely.
- Check for proper tire pressure weekly if you have pneumatic tires.
- Be sure to plug the battery charger into a grounded outlet for power chairs or scooters.
- Use only batteries approved for use with scooters and power wheelchairs.
- Do not use or turn on other communication devices such as cellular phones, walkie-talkies, or CB radios while driving or using your power wheelchair or scooter.
- Do not go up stairs or steep inclines as some chairs may tip over.
- Please check with your doctor or therapist to determine if your chair is still appropriate for you if there has been a change in your condition or a significant change in your body weight.
Please refer to your owners’ manual for specific safety precautions and maintenance for your wheelchair or scooter. Call us for a free, individualized evaluation with our credentialed rehab technology supplier and your therapists and/or physician.