Advances in wheelchair technology

The adoption of ANSI standards and the pending adoption of nearly identical ISO standards for wheelchairs have extensive implications. These standards will enable comparisons among products with respect to objective criteria rather than marketing claims. Probably more important is that these standards will likely be accepted as the criteria for third party payer acceptance. The utilization of information provided in standards disclosures will provide the basis for both long range cost effectiveness and better selection of equipment for individual needs. Copies of the ANSI standards are available at the RESNA office, Suite 700, 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036.