I'm looking for a vocational school or course from a wheelchair company that will teach repair.

Kevin

 Answer:

As difficult as this may be to believe, we were unable to locate a single vocational school offering a “wheelchair technician” qualification – at least in North American and Europe. There is a program in Africa, but this was created because the areas being serviced by the program lacked the resources of wealthier countries for fitting and repairing wheelchairs. According to a paper reproduced on motivation.org.uk, entitled “Wheelchair Technology as a Profession,” wheelchair services in the industrialized world are provided through a synergy between manufacturers and health professionals, such as occupational therapists, rehab engineers and clinical assistants. Prosthetic and orthotic technologists may also develop expertise in wheelchair repair. Our advice is to contact prominent manufacturers and ask them where to begin your quest to learn wheelchair repair.

Question: I am interested in becoming a wheelchair service technician for nursing homes and other institutions. I am prepared to sell my skills and abilities, but I don't know how to find companies that provide wheelchair servicing. ~Ken

Answer: You may have to take specific courses on wheelchair repair to become a certified medical technician. This will depend on your local government and laws, so the first thing to do is find out what qualifications you need. Some of the bigger wheelchair manufacturers will offer courses on how to service their products. These courses should teach you how to diagnose, service and repair various types of wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Once you have everything you need to become a service technician you could contact various wheelchair manufacturers for information on their servicing department and policies and then inquire about job possibilities. You could also check local hospitals, clinics and nursing homes to find out who does their servicing and maintenance work. If you have no luck in finding a job with a servicing company or if there aren't any in your area you could also start your own business as long as you meet all government requirements.

Question: I work in the Ohio prison system and we are considering doing wheelchair repair as a community service. I do not know the extent of the repairs; which will be done by inmates under employee supervision. Are there any certifications and/or training needed in order to perform such repairs? ~Ron

Answer: As far as I know there are specific federal laws which must be followed regarding medical suppliers and repair technicians. Each state may have its own laws to some degree as well. There are various regulated groups and organizations that offer certified repair center training. These training courses usually offer the most comprehensive technician training programs in the medical industry. The courses generally consist of a series of graduated levels of training and education. Repair technicians are instructed, frequently tested, and upon passing the program - certified. The technicians are then able to competently and accurately assess and repair durable medical equipment. I recommend that you check out the laws in Ohio, and if you feel wheelchair repair is something your inmates may be capable of doing and your budget allows for it, I'm sure it would be a valuable service in your community.

Question: Can you please tell me how to tighten the brakes on a manual wheelchair? ~Cathy

Answer: Tightening the brakes on your manual wheelchair should be relatively easy. Your breaks should be tightened about once per month or when needed. Your brakes may loosen over time and move away from the tire. For most manual wheelchairs, to tighten the breaks you have to move the brake closer to the tire and tighten the bolts. However, you should read the owner's manual carefully. If you don't have a manual for your wheelchair you should ask your local wheelchair dealer or supplier to provide you with one. You can also ask them how to properly maintain your wheelchair. If your tires are worn, your brakes may not work properly so you should replace the tires. If you have any problems with your wheelchair or you don't know how to maintain or fix it properly by yourself you should contact your local wheelchair dealer.