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Powered Wheelchairs Occupant Controlled Electrically Powered Indoor/outdoor Chairs (E.P.I.O.C.)s

by admin — last modified 2007-09-03 12:05
Wheelchair

The client must:

  • Be in receipt of an indoor powered wheelchair (EPIC), provided by the wheelchair service, or satisfy the conditions for supply of an indoor powered wheelchair, i.e:
    • Be unable to walk effectively in their own home and/or
    • be unable to self propel a manual wheelchair effectively indoors and outdoors.
  • Have potential to benefit functionally from, and have long term regular need of, an indoor/outdoor powered wheelchair.
  • Be medically fit to control a powered wheelchair indoors and outdoors:
    • Free from conditions causing loss of consciousness or epileptic seizures in waking hours for the last twelve months (subject to medical review).
    • Free from any combination of medical conditions and/or treatments likely to make independent control of a powered wheelchair unsafe.
  • Have a visual acuity which is functional and have a field of vision of 120deg in a horizontal plane and 20deg above and below this plane. All clients referred will be assessed individually including their ability to compensate for any visual impairment.
  • Have no problem with visual, auditory, cognitive, visuo-spatial or higher cortical function which would make them a danger to themselves, pedestrians or other road users.
  • Have completed training as required and have demonstrated in a driving assessment and by other means, that they have the insight, intellectual capacity and dexterity to operate a powered wheelchair safely and responsibly on their own without assistance.
  • Not exceed the weight limits stated in the manufacturers' specification (i.e. total weight - seating plus user).
  • Have a home environment which includes:
    • Adequate space for storage of the wheelchair with power supply for a battery charger (including ventilation as specified by the manufacturer).
    • Adequate space for movement of the wheelchair within the home.
    • Safe and easy access for the power chair to be driven out of doors.
  • Or
    • Have a home environment which is suitable for adaptation as agreed by the user, property owner and relevant authorities.
  • Be able to complete the basic wheelchair maintenance tasks (such as recharging the battery) or have a carer who is able to do so.
  • Have a local outside environment which is accessible to a powered wheelchair and compatible with its use.
  • Agree to comply with E.P.I.O.C service conditions of loan and take every step possible to take out insurance to cover third party liability, theft and damage.
  • Agree to regular review by the E.P.I.O.C service. If at any review the client fails to meet any of these criteria, the wheelchair may be withdrawn.