We have been told that patient signed disclaimers are valueless and provides no protection what-so-ever, so we don't take chances..

Stephen GB Kirker MD FRCPI

Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine

Box 120, Disablement Services Centre & Lewin Stroke & Rehab Unit

Addenbrookes NHS Trust

Cambridge CB2 2QQ

01223 217870      fax 01223 242038

-----Original Message-----
From: Sue Staincliffe [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 26 September 2004 07:41
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: powered wheelchair vouchers

No longer working in the NHS but I was involved in the first pilots for powered wheelchairs and consulted by the Dept of Health on the voucher scheme.  The original remit was as you know for manual chairs because at the time we felt the learning curve to progress to electric chairs was too much for therapists to take on all at the same time.  The philosophy behind the scheme was to aknowledge individual need and respect the rights of disabled people to make informed choices.

Following that philosophy through, you should be able to assess the need of the individual concerned to have a powered outdoor vehicle.  If that means that they then want to choose what type of vehicle they have, then as long as they are mentally able to make an informed choice, it must surely be their responsibility and that of the vehicle (class 3) supplier, to ensure that they can handle the equipment safely.

If you are in doubt, draw up a policy with a disclaimer for them to sign.

regards and good luck.

Sue Staincliffe  MA CHm MCSP SRP