BC FORUM News retrieved from Long Term Residential Care website of the BC Government

Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchairs for Residential Care Clients

1. What is the policy on basic wheelchairs in long-term residential care facilities?

Effective January 1, 2016, long-term residential care residents who reside in publicly-subsidized residential care facilities will now have access to a free basic wheelchair for personal exclusive use, if required. Basic maintenance and basic cleaning of the basic wheelchairs will also be provided as a free benefit.

2. When is the policy effective?

Effective January 1, 2016, clients who are assessed as needing a basic wheelchair will be eligible for one. For additional information, please speak with your service provider.

3. What qualifies as a basic wheelchair?

A basic wheelchair is a manual, self-propelled, safe and durable wheelchair that enhances personal mobility; has a basic contoured seat cushion; and which is reasonable to obtain and maintain. A basic wheelchair is a wheelchair without modification, upgrade, customization or specialization. A custom made wheelchair is not a basic wheelchair. Bariatric wheelchairs and wheelchairs with super-low seating are not basic wheelchairs. For additional information, please speak with your service provider.

4. What if I rented, purchased or acquired a wheelchair with my own resources prior to the revised policy coming into effect?

It is important to discuss with your service provider the benefits and disadvantages of continuing with your existing ownership or rental agreement for a basic or modified wheelchair.

If you purchased or rented a wheelchair with your own resources prior to the revised policy, there is no reimbursement/ retroactive payment available.

However, if the cost of the equipment is causing serious financial hardship, speak to your case manager about applying for a temporary rate reduction of your client rate.

5. I am eligible/ have access to wheelchair benefits from another organization, can I utilize both sets of benefits?

No. If you are eligible for wheelchair benefits from other organizations (such as Veteran’s Affairs Canada, Worker’s Compensation, etc.), you do not qualify for the wheelchair benefit provided through the Ministry of Health, Home and Community Care Program.

If you have extended health benefits which provide assistance with wheelchairs, discuss your options with your service provider.