1. Set goals to reduce your daily barriers mobility.
Think about all of your household activities (i.e., dressing, grooming myself, using the bathroom, etc.). Then ask yourself these questions:
- “What are the most physically challenging things I do each day?”
- “If those things were no longer a serious challenge because I had a electric wheelchair, how much would my life improve?
- “How much happier, safer, more comfortable, more active, or more productive would I be if I had an electric wheelchair? Why?”
When you know what you need or want, you will be your own best advocate.
2. Write it down.
Understand how your unique physical limitations impacts your daily activities. Why do you have to make a list? The average time spend in the waiting room at the doctor’s office is about 15 to 30 minutes. By the time my doc sees me, I am hungry and simply warn out by the wait – and hardly in the mood to have a detailed talk with my doctor. Having a complete list of all of your problems or concerns will ensure that you leave with the appropriate prescription that best suits your unique situation.
3. Bring a friend.
Choose someone you spend a lot time with, like a friend or family member, to come along with you to the exam. Their observations about your lifestyle, level of support needed, and safety concerns can help. You may be surprised that they might notice even subtle things about your unique needs.
4. Tell your physician what you need – and I mean EVERYTHING.
If you had trouble getting to the toilet in time last night because you could not operate your manual wheelchair, bring that up. Simply put, you must help your doctor to help you get the proper prescription! Refer to your list, be honest and upfront about all of the “details”. Provide examples of how the powerchair would help you significantly improve your daily living experience. Paint a very clear picture, and you’ll be on your way.
Good luck on your exam!
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