New Mercer Commons

Policies and Procedures

Electric Wheelchairs and Scooters

Policy: It is the policy of New Mercer Commons to allow the use of electric wheelchairs and scooters when medically necessary if the resident is capable to operate the electric wheelchair or scooter in a manner that does not endanger the safety of themselves or others.

For the purpose of this policy, medical necessity is defined as:

1)  The resident’s condition is such that without the use of an electric wheelchair or scooter , the resident would otherwise be room bound, bed bound or confined to a chair

OR

2)  The resident’s condition is such that the resident is unable to operate wheelchair manually

Procedure:

1)  An appointment with the Occupational Therapist at Front Range Therapy will be made to assess the need for the electric wheelchair, or scooter. The Therapist will perform an evaluation of the resident’s current physical status, safety awareness, and ability to safely operate the electric wheelchair or scooter. There is no charge to you for this service.

2)  Ongoing evaluation by the Occupational Therapist, of your safe operation of the electric wheelchair or scooter, will occur at least annually and more often if necessary. Events that may precipitate the need for an evaluation include but are not limited to: driving at elevated speeds, unsafe handling of the electric wheelchair or scooter around other residents, staff, and/or family members, an accident involving the use of the electric wheelchair or scooter, or the annual evaluation.

3)  The resident will be financially responsible for all costs involved in the maintenance of the electric wheelchair or scooter. If repairs are needed, the facility may assist in arranging for these services.

4)  If nursing or therapy at any time deems a resident unsafe to use their electric wheelchair or scooter, it may be removed from the resident’s possession.

5)  The resident is financially responsible if they are to damage the facility or fellow resident in any way.

6)  You will be required to purchase a homeowners insurance policy with at least $100,000 in liability coverage. Columbine Health Systems and New Mercer Commons must be named as an additional insured. A copy of the policy will be kept in your file in the office.

Resident Date

Facility Date

2-13 GD