Good roads are required for cars, automobiles, buses and trucks, tracks for trains and metros, footpaths for walking, similarly good ramps for wheelchairs are required for accessing elevated areas in and around a house, a building, a shopping mall, airport and vehicles too. The American Disabilities Act desires wheelchair ramps in public buildings for all wheelchair users.
Permanent wheelchair ramps are made of concrete; normally they are part of a big construction. Regular maintenance is required to keep them going. They are fixed and stable. On the other hand portable pathways can be moved, folded and transported from one place to another. They are more flexible and economical. People prefer permanent ramps in most of the cases. Wheelchair lifts and vans use them whenever the need arises. Roll-up ramps can be used to access curbs and short steps. On the internet sites you can get guidance on how to build a ramp while adhering to the building code rules and regulations. One can access blueprints to build a ramp at home. Ramps made out of anodized aluminum are at rust resistance. A ramp should be chosen according to wheelchair’s maximum allowable incline. Silver Star and EZ Access are brand names for the product. Access ramps are used by people using rollators as balance assisting device. Portable access ramps should be able to hold about 440 lbs or 200 kg. Always make sure that the ramp chosen should meet the minimum capacity and exceeds the weight of the wheelchair and the weight of the wheelchair user. Ramps along with other devices allow you to travel the world.
Essential points that one should keep in mind when buying a suitable path for the wheelchairs are not many, but those that need attention are very essential. These commodities are available at any medical supply store; you can use the internet as well. Sometimes even a doctor in not fully aware about a product in the market. So pay the lowest price for the latest lift ramps. Get to know about a reputable local vendor with CRTS (certified rehab technology supplier), take advice from a physical therapist (OT or PT). You can also make sure that the Vendor is accredited by RESNA (the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America)
Medicare, Medicaid and other private insurance companies cover the cost of handicap ramps. One should always take utmost care with the paperwork. You should check the insurance coverage and restrictions. Look out for possible ways and means for reimbursement. Look into Medicare and Medicaid coverage wherever possible. For loans check out with the Digital Federal Credit Union which offers loans to members of the American Association for People with Disabilities. Vendor’s return policy should also be taken into account. The Minnesota Ramp Project offers good ramp designs along with good cost effective builders list. If you are looking out for second hand low cost goods, check the equipment fully before purchasing it. You can get a prescription from your personal physician to settle out-of-pocket costs with tax credit help.
