Wheelchair Funding and Ordering
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Top Contributors - Naomi O'Reilly, Kim Jackson and Amrita Patro
Introduction[edit | edit source]
The objective of good practice in funding and ordering is to order or procure the selected wheelchair for the user, as early as possible.
Funding[edit | edit source]
Following Wheelchair Prescription when it is known what elements an individual requires in the wheelchair, the cost of the recommended product can be accurately estimated. For most services, it will be essential to ensure a funding source has been identified before an order can be placed for equipment. Funding options will vary both within and between Countries and can include funding by an out-of-pocket payment, a government subsidy, nongovernmental organization or donor agency, or a payment by an insurance company. Many individuals worldwide who need a wheelchair have limited access to an appropriate wheelchair or when it is available cannot afford to buy one. Nevertheless, everyone who needs a wheelchair should have access to one, regardless of their ability to pay. Thus, funds will need to be made available for users who need financial assistance. Often, this responsibility lies with administrative personnel or programme managers rather than clinical or technical personnel. [1]
Ordering[edit | edit source]
When not in stock, wheelchairs need to be ordered from an external supplier or procured from the wheelchair service workshop, which usually maintains a stock of different sizes and types of wheelchair.[1] When the best wheelchair for the wheelchair user has been selected and the prescription (selection) form prepared, the wheelchair needs to be ordered, if not available within the existing stock.
if a wheelchair service keeps wheelchairs in stock, this may mean completing an order form to be authorized by the service manager. The wheelchair may then be prepared by the staff responsible for wheelchair preparation.
if the wheelchair service does not keep wheelchairs in stock, this may mean ordering from an external supplier.
The system for ordering wheelchairs will vary in different wheelchair services. Write down below the things that you need to remember to order wheelchairs in your local wheelchair service.
Good Practice[edit | edit source]
Resources[edit | edit source]
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