 |
 |
There may be a difference between English and Scottish contracts but in scotland there isn't much difference in cost between some entry level epioc chairs, the mirage for instance and the Apollo. So why use an outdated chair when better chairs are available for approximately the same cost. An epioc is used indoors! so it is fit for purpose if the right chair is selected! We remove kerbclimbers and if necessary reprogramme chairs, however I refer to my previous comments regarding user instruction. Further advantages: Reduced fleet options: i.e. one chair for both EPIC and EPIOC use this has cost reducing measures Better chairs require less repairs. Cost is not always about one-off purchase cost! Gareth Adkins Clinical Scientist Westmarc Southern General Hospital 1345 Govan Road Glasgow G51 4TF Tel: 0141 201 1463 Fax: 0141 201 2648 -----Original Message----- From: Jacqui Donaldson [mailto:[log in to unmask]] Sent: 28 June 2006 09:08 To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: MDA/2006/036 mis use of EPIC's[Scanned] Despite its antiquity I find that the Apollo still has many benefits particularly for those people who have a restricted environment, and could not manage a powered chair outdoors; and lets face it its inexpensive! I'm all for progress but equipment should be fit for purpose and using higher spec models that you then have to limit functions on is not cost effective. We do use modified EPIOCs for people who are likely to be using the wheelchair in grounds and gardens of homes day centres etc. where there is the necessary 'supervision' to ensure that the wheelchair is not used out of that environment. Clients sign conditions of supply on the handover of equipment and use of that equipment is always explained - will there ever be a time when people have to take responsibility for their own actions? Roll on reitrement! Jacqui Donaldson >>> [log in to unmask] 06/28/06 8:46 am >>> Are you suggesting issuing indoor/outdoor chairs for indoor use only? Is this something that some services already do? If so what models do you use? Do you programme speeds down and remove kerb climber? Do you issue amendment to the manufacturer's user manual? Our service does this, but only when we know the user's ultimate goal is independent indoor and outdoor mobility and their driving skills are not up to the outdoor standard at the outset. Gary Williams Rehabilitation Engineer Wirral Wheelchair Service St. Catherines hospital Derby Rd. Birkenhead Merseyside CH42 0LQ Tel 0151 604 7261 or 07733 225606 e-mail [log in to unmask] ________________________________ From: A discussion list for Assistive Technology professionals. on behalf of Sue Staincliffe Sent: Tue 27/06/2006 21:02 To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: MDA/2006/036 mis use of EPIC's[Scanned] I find it hard to believe that the EPIC is still in circulation. We are in the 21st century so why on earth are managers still bothering with this outdated type of chair. If you just purchased EPIOCs you would save in the long run on timeand energy of staff alone in the allocation process. Come on you lot - change the whole system PLEASE! Sue Staincliffe **************************************************************************** ***************************************** DISCLAIMER: This e-mail may contain confidential and /or proprietary information some or all of which may be legally privileged. It is intended for the recipient only. If addressing or transmission error has misdirected this e-mail, please notify the author by replying to this e-mail and destroying any copies. If you are not the intended recipient you must not use, disclose, distribute, copy, print or rely on this e-mail. The information contained in this e-mail may be subjected to public disclosure under the NHS Code of Openness and Freedom of Information Act 2000. Unless the information is legally exempt from disclosure, the confidentiality of this e-mail AND YOUR REPLY cannot be guaranteed. Thank you **************************************************************************** **********************************************************************