Wheelchair Prescription
A formal clinical document specifying the type, configuration, and features of a wheelchair recommended for a particular patient based on assessment.
Full Definition
A wheelchair prescription is a detailed clinical document completed by a qualified rehabilitation professional — typically a physiotherapist, occupational therapist, or rehabilitation engineer — following a comprehensive seating and mobility assessment. It specifies the wheelchair frame type (manual or powered), dimensions, seating components, postural supports, and any custom modifications required for the individual user. In editorial contexts, the document is always referred to as a 'wheelchair prescription', not a 'wheelchair order' or 'wheelchair referral', which have different meanings in clinical workflow. Editors should ensure that component specifications within the prescription are expressed consistently in either metric or imperial units per the house style.
Usage
Usage note: 'Wheelchair prescription' is the preferred clinical term. 'Wheelchair order' is acceptable in procurement contexts but should not replace 'prescription' in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The occupational therapist submitted the wheelchair prescription to the equipment funding body for approval." — Funding application
- "Editors should verify that all component codes cited in the wheelchair prescription match the manufacturer's current catalog." — Editorial checklist