Buying Used Electric Wheelchairs
Mounting health costs and cuts to government funding are making
wheelchair users seek heaper alternatives like used electric
wheelchairs. Secondhand electric wheelchairs are no doubt heaper
than new ones but a lot of care should be taken when buying a
used electric wheelchair.
Sources of used electric wheelchairs are primarily relatives,
friends, and local support groups. Information about used
electric wheelchairs is also available in advertisements on
bulletin boards, newsletters, Web sites, at local hospitals and
rehabilitation centers, or local disability organizations.
Information for finding used wheelchairs can also be found in
newspaper classifieds or in pawnshops.
It is wise to also solicit advice from a therapist or physician
before buying a used electric wheelchair. Private health
insurance and state vocational rehabilitation centers sometimes
cover the cost of used electric wheelchairs. The Technical
Assistance Project (TAP), supported by the federal
Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
Act (Tech Act) of 1988, also provides financial support for the
purchase of disability equipment. Sometimes, wheelchair vendors
also provide guarantees and warranties for used wheelchairs.
One disadvantage of buying a used electric wheelchair is the
non-transferability of the warranty on the chair. There are also
certain other disadvantages to consider such as the chair