Question
How often can we replace pediatric seating systems?
Answer
It depends upon several factors. First, the funding source will have certain criteria that will need to be met before a seating system can be replaced. Replacement time for a wheelchair base is about 5-7 years. However, in the case of pediatric seating, there is the factor of growth that can drastically affect the fit of the equipment. Often, I will replace the seating several times during that 5-7 year window and still use the same wheelchair base. This being said, it is important to always anticipate the client's needs into the future in order to have flexibility for growth and change and to avoid prematurely replacing costly equipment.
Secondly, pediatric seating systems can be changed if there has been a significant medical or functional change within the 5-7 years. For example, many times orthopedic changes can occur which cause the equipment to no longer be the appropriate choice.
Lastly, your documentation and justification has to match what equipment is being recommended for that particular client. If you cannot demonstrate that they need a particular type of cushion, for example, then they will not approve it.
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