I was paralyzed in 2001 and at that time I got a wheelchair that fit my condition and transportation situation. It was a folding chair and light weight. Several years after that I was far more mobile and active and I was having serious trouble with carpal tunnel in both arms and hands as well as shoulder problems. I had even had one operation and was ready to have another. My doctor, Spinal Technologies and Rehabilitation, prescribed an ultralight rigid wheelchair. Both Medicare and my wife’s insurance company refused to cover it even with much justification and letters from the doctor. My medical complications from using the first wheelchair have become very minimal and do not require any treatment. The difference with the ultralight wheelchair is amazing and Medicare claimed that it wasn’t necessary and it would not be effective. Fortunately, I found a couple of organizations who helped me finance it. I will, eventually, need a powered wheelchair and I’m very scared to even think about the troubles I will have trying to get coverage for it.
Gary, IN

source:www.unitedspinal.org