This service focuses on the prescription of power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, and postural seating supports (modular and custom), including facilitating access to funding through the Assistive Device Program.
Care We Provide
- Assessment and consultation
- Equipment recommendation
- Assistive Device Program application authorization
- Education related to wound prevention and management, postural management, and appropriate utilization of equipment
- Equipment selection and integration
- Expertise in power and manual wheelchairs, as well as modular and custom postural supports
- Expertise in addressing pressure wounds
- Expertise in matching equipment to clinical needs
How to Prepare
- Wear form-fitting clothing to enable us to take accurate measurements
- Bring in any information you have regarding your current wheelchair and seating such as when and where you obtained it
- Have someone accompany you if you need any assistance with self-care (toileting) or with remembering details of the visit
- The assessment will include an interview followed by a physical assessment on a raised mat; we have a ceiling lift and are prepared to transfer you as needed
Seating Clinic Roles
The seating clinic is staffed by Occupational Therapists who are registered with the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario and an Occupational Therapist/Physiotherapist Assistant. The OT will carry out the assessment and develop a prescription for the equipment you require for basic and essential daily functional mobility.
As a client of the clinic, you will be asked to identify a vendor with whom you wish to work. The only exception to this choice is if you require a power chair with powered seating options (tilt, recline, power legs) in which case you are limited to the vendor selected by the Ministry of Health. The vendor will provide suggestions on the specific equipment that will meet your needs identified and will supply the equipment.
Equipment Funding
In Ontario, clients with a valid health card are able to apply for assistance with funding their mobility equipment through the Ontario Ministry of Health Assistive Devices Program (ADP). The OTs in the seating clinic are registered authorizers for ADP and will complete the funding forms for you.
ADP covers a percentage of the cost and you are responsible for the balance. If you need help paying for the balance on your prescribed equipment, you are encouraged to identify possible community agencies or resources and to request funding applications from them. The clinic can provide you with supporting documentation to help with your application. Clients who are ODSP recipients are fully covered for most equipment.
