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National Resource
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Description
This center at the University at Pittsburgh investigates performance-based selection as a rehabilitation strategy that uses results from standards testing to inform the process of selecting appropriate wheelchair products for people with mobility disabilities, matching appropriate and quality products to meet user needs.
Services Provided
The center develops, evaluates, and implements performance standards for cushion tissue integrity management, cushion durability, wheelchair durability, and wheelchair propulsion efficiency. These performance standards establish test methods and requirements for devices. The goal of the RERC is to improve wheelchair services through an evidence-based approach using a performance-based product selection strategy. The specific objectives are to: (1) Develop and validate a test method for seat cushion load-bearing performance; (2) improve a test method for seat cushion performance stability with use; (3) develop and validate a test method for wheelchair rolling resistance; (4) develop and validate a test method for wheelchair caster durability; (5) research and disseminate product performance using these methods; and (6) research clinical relevance by evaluating equivalency of product performance and relating standards outcomes to clinical and real-world outcomes.