Wheelchair Buying Guide

Manual vs. Transport: The Core Decision

The first choice in any wheelchair buying guide is whether you need a self-propelled manual wheelchair or a caregiver-pushed transport chair — everything else is a refinement from there. A standard manual wheelchair has large rear wheels with handrims so the user can propel it; a transport chair has smaller wheels and is built to be pushed.

Standard Manual Wheelchairs

Standard manual wheelchairs suit users who have enough upper-body strength to self-propel, at least part of the time, and want the option of independent movement at home or in the community. They're generally heavier than transport chairs, which can matter when lifting one into a car trunk.

Transport Wheelchairs

Transport wheelchairs are lighter, narrower, and designed to fold compactly, making them a strong fit for appointments, travel, and outings where a companion will always be pushing. The tradeoff is that the user can't move the chair independently, so it's the wrong choice if self-propulsion matters day to day.

Fit and Feature Checklist

• Seat width and depth — measure the user, don't guess
• Weight capacity, including standard vs. bariatric frames
• Folding mechanism and overall weight for transport and storage
• Armrests and footrests — fixed vs. removable/swing-away
• Cushion type, especially for users who'll sit for long stretches

Is a Wheelchair Covered by Insurance?

Manual and transport wheelchairs are both typically covered as DME under Medicare and most insurance plans when a doctor documents medical necessity. Power wheelchairs sit in a stricter category and generally require prior authorization and a face-to-face exam before Medicare will approve one.

FAQ