U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Office for Civil Rights

U.S. Department of Justice

Civil Rights Division

Disability Rights Section

Americans with Disabilities Act

Access To Medical Care For

Individuals With Mobility Disabilities
Reproduction of this document is encouraged.

This publication may be viewed or downloaded

from the ADA Website (www.ada.gov). 

Additional copies may be obtained 

by calling the ADA Information Line 

at

800-514-0301 (voice), 

800-514-0383 (TTY).

July 2010

Page i ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES
ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page ii 

PART I: OVERVIEW AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1

Services and Facilities........................................................................................1

 

PART 2: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 2

PART 3: ACCESSIBLE EXAMINATION ROOMS 5

Entry Doors .........................................................................................................5

Clear Floor Space and Turning Space Inside Examination Rooms ................5

Features of an Accessible Examination Room.................................................7

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT 7

Exam Tables and Chairs.....................................................................................9

Features of Accessible Exam Tables............................................................... 10

Typical Transfer Techniques: Staff Assistance and Patient Lifts ................. 11

Using Patient Lifts ............................................................................................ 11

 Portable Floor Lifts .......................................................................... 11

Overhead Track Lifts ........................................................................................ 13

 Ceiling-Mounted Lifts...................................................................... 13

 Free-Standing Overhead Lifts ........................................................ 14

Additional Transfer Techniques: Use of Stretchers and Gurneys ................ 15

Radiologic Equipment ..................................................................................... 16

 Mammography Equipment ............................................................ 17

Scales ................................................................................................................ 18

Staff Training .................................................................................................... 19

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page 1 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

ccessibility of doctors’ offices, clinics, 

and other health care providers is essential in providing medical care to people 

with disabilities. Due to barriers, individuals 

with disabilities are less likely to get routine preventative medical care than people 

without disabilities. Accessibility is not only 

legally required, it is important medically so 

that minor problems can be detected and 

treated before turning into major and possibly life-threatening problems.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 

(ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with 

disabilities in every day activities, including medical services. Section 504 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) is a 

civil rights law that prohibits discrimination 

against individuals with disabilities on the basis of their disability in programs or activities 

that receive federal financial assistance, including health programs and services. These 

statutes require medical care providers to 

make their services available in an accessible 

manner. This technical assistance publication 

provides guidance for medical care providers on the requirements of these statutes in 

medical settings with respect to people with 

mobility disabilities, which include, for example, those who use wheelchairs, scooters, 

walkers, crutches, or no mobility devices at 

all.

The ADA requires access to medical care services and the facilities where the services are 

provided. Private hospitals or medical offices 

are covered by Title III of the ADA as places 

of public accommodation. Public hospitals 

and clinics and medical offices operated by 

state and local governments are covered by 

Title II of the ADA as programs of the public 

entities. Section 504 covers any of these that 

receive federal financial assistance, which 

can include Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. The standards adopted under 

the ADA to ensure equal access to individuals with disabilities are generally the same as 

those required under Section 504.

Services and Facilities

Titles II and III of the ADA and Section 504 

require that medical care providers provide 

individuals with disabilities:

•	 full and equal access to their health care

services and facilities; and 

•	 reasonable modifications to policies,

practices, and procedures when necessary 

to make health care services fully available 

to individuals with disabilities, unless the 

modifications would fundamentally alter 

the nature of the services (i.e., alter the 

essential nature of the services).

The ADA sets requirements for new construction of and alterations to buildings and facilities, including health care facilities. These 

requirements are found in the regulations for 

the ADA, at 28 CFR 35.151, for Title II entities 

and at 28 CFR Part 36, Subpart D, for Title 

III entities. The regulations are available at 

www.ada.gov/reg2.html and www.ada.gov/

reg3a.html.

In addition, all buildings, including those built 

before the ADA went into effect, are subject 

to accessibility requirements for existing 

facilities. Under Title III, existing facilities 

are required to remove architectural barriers 

where such removal is readily achievable. 

Barrier removal is readily achievable when it 

is easily accomplishable and able to be carried out without much difficulty or expense. 

If barrier removal is not readily achievable, 

the entity must make its services available 

through alternative methods, if those methods 

are readily achievable. Under Title II, a public entity must ensure that its program as a 

whole is accessible; this may entail removing 

architectural barriers or adopting alternative 

measures, such as relocating activities to accessible locations. This same program accessiblity standard applies under Section 504. 

PART I: OVERVIEW AND GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A
ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 2

Q

Q

Q

Is it OK to examine a patient who uses 

a wheelchair in the wheelchair, because 

the patient cannot get onto the exam table 

independently?

Generally no. Examining a patient in 

their wheelchair usually is less thorough 

than on the exam table, and does not 

provide the patient equal medical 

services. There are several ways to 

make the exam table accessible to a 

person using a wheelchair. A good 

option is to have a table that adjusts 

down to the level of a wheelchair, 

approximately 17-19 inches from the 

floor. (See Part 4 of this publication for 

a more in-depth discussion of accessible 

exam tables.) What is important is 

that a person with a disability receives 

equal medical services to those received 

by a person without a disability. If 

the examination does not require that 

a person lie down (for example, an 

examination of the face), then the exam 

table is not important to the medical care 

and the patient may remain seated. 

Can I tell a patient that I cannot treat her 

because I don’t have accessible medical 

equipment?

Generally no. You cannot deny service 

to a patient who you would otherwise 

serve because she has a disability. You 

must examine the patient as you would 

any patient. In order to do so, you may 

need to provide an accessible exam 

table, an accessible stretcher or gurney, 

or a patient lift, or have enough trained 

staff available who can assist the patient 

to transfer.

Is it OK to tell a patient who has a disability 

to bring along someone who can help at the 

exam?

 

No. If a patient chooses to bring 

along a friend or family member to 

the appointment, they may. However, 

a patient with a disability, just like 

other individuals, may come to an 

appointment alone, and the provider 

must provide reasonable assistance 

to enable the individual to receive the 

medical care. This assistance may 

include helping the patient to undress 

and dress, get on and off the exam 

table or other equipment, and lie back 

and be positioned on the examination 

table or other equipment. Once on the 

exam table, some patients may need a 

staff person to stay with them to help 

maintain balance and positioning. The 

provider should ask the patient if he or 

she needs any assistance and, if so, what 

is the best way to help.

If the patient does bring an assistant or a 

family member, do I talk to the patient or the 

companion? Should the companion remain 

in the room while I examine the patient and 

while discussing the medical problem or 

results?

You should always address the patient 

directly, not the companion, as you would 

with any other patient. Just because 

the patient has a disability does not 

mean that he or she cannot speak for 

him- or herself or understand the exam 

results. It is up to the patient to decide 

whether a companion remains in the 

room during your exam or discussion 

with the patient. The patient may have 

brought a companion to assist in getting 

to the exam, but would prefer to ask the 

Q

PART 2: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
PART 2: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Page 3 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Q

Q

Q

companion to leave the room before the 

doctor begins a substantive discussion. 

Before beginning your examination or 

discussion, you should ask the patient 

if he or she wishes the companion to 

remain in the room.

Can I decide not to treat a patient with 

a disability because it takes me longer to 

examine them, and insurance won’t reimburse 

me for the additional time?

No, you cannot refuse to treat a patient 

who has a disability just because 

the exam might take more of your or 

your staff’s time. Some examinations 

take longer than others, for all sorts 

of reasons, in the normal course of a 

medical practice. 

I have an accessible exam table, but if it is 

in use when a patient with a disability comes 

in for an appointment, is it OK to make the 

patient wait for the room to open up, or else 

use an exam table that is not accessible?

Generally, patients with disabilities 

should not wait longer than other 

patients because they are waiting for a 

particular exam table. If the patient with 

a disability has made an appointment 

in advance, the staff should reserve the 

room with the accessible exam table 

for that patient’s appointment. The 

receptionist should ask each individual 

who calls to make an appointment if the 

individual will need any assistance at 

the examination because of a disability. 

This way, the medical provider can be 

prepared to provide the assistance and 

staff needed. Accessibility needs should 

be noted in the patient’s chart so the 

provider is prepared to accommodate 

the patient on future visits as well. If 

the medical provider finds that it cannot 

successfully reserve the room with the 

accessible exam table for individuals 

with disabilities, then the provider 

should consider acquiring additional 

accessible exam tables so that more 

exam rooms are available for individuals 

with disabilities.

In a doctor’s office or clinic with multiple 

exam rooms, must every examination room 

have an accessible exam table and sufficient 

clear floor space next to the exam table?

Probably not. The medical care provider 

must be able to provide its services in 

an accessible manner to individuals with 

disabilities. In order to do so, accessible 

equipment is usually necessary. 

However, the number of accessible 

exam tables needed by the medical 

care provider depends on the size of 

the practice, the patient population, and 

other factors. One accessible exam table 

may be sufficient in a small doctor’s 

practice, while more will likely be 

necessary in a large clinic. (See Part 4 

for discussion of accessible exam tables 

and clear floor space.)

I don’t want to discriminate against 

patients with disabilities, but I don’t want my 

staff to injure their backs by lifting people 

who use wheelchairs onto exam tables. If my 

nurse has a bad back, then she doesn’t have 

to help lift a patient, does she?

Staff should be protected from injury, 

but that doesn’t justify refusing to 

provide equal medical services to 

individuals with disabilities. The 

medical provider can protect his or her 

staff from injury by providing accessible 

equipment, such as an adjustable exam 

Q
PART 2: COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 4

Q

Q

table and/or a ceiling or floor based Q

patient lift, and training on proper patient 

handling techniques as necessary to 

provide equal medical services to a 

patient with a disability. (See Part 4 for 

more information on this equipment.)

What should I do if my staff do not know 

how to help a person with a disability transfer 

or know what the ADA requires my office 

to do? Also, I am unsure how to examine 

someone with spasticity or paralysis.

To provide medical services in an 

accessible manner, the medical 

provider and staff will likely need 

to receive training. This training will 

need to address how to operate the 

accessible equipment, how to assist 

with transfers and positioning of 

individuals with disabilities, and how not 

to discriminate against individuals with 

disabilities. Local or national disability 

organizations may be able to provide 

training for your staff. This document 

and other technical assistance materials 

found on the ADA Website (www.ada.

gov) can be used in conjunction with live 

training to train medical staff. The U.S. 

Department of Justice ADA Information 

Line is another resource. Anyone can 

call the Information Line at 800-514-0301 

(voice) or 800-514-0383 (TTY) to speak 

with an ADA Specialist to get answers to 

questions about the ADA. Additionally, 

when preparing to assist a patient with 

a disability, it is always best to ask the 

patient if assistance is needed and if 

so, what is the best way to help. If the 

provider is unsure of how to handle 

something, it is absolutely OK to ask the 

patient what works best. 

If I lease my medical office space, am I 

responsible for making sure the examination 

room, waiting room, and toilet rooms are 

accessible?

Yes. Any private entity that owns, 

leases or leases to, or operates a place 

of public accommodation is responsible 

for complying with Title III of the ADA. 

Both tenants and landlords are equally 

responsible for complying with the ADA. 

However, your lease with the landlord 

may specify that, as between the parties, 

the landlord is responsible for some 

or all of the accessibility requirements 

of the space. Frequently, the tenant is 

made responsible for the space it uses 

and controls (e.g., the examination 

rooms and reception area), while the 

landlord is responsible for common 

space, such as toilet rooms used by 

more than one tenant.

Are there any tax breaks for making 

accessibility changes to my medical office?

Yes. Subject to IRS rules, federal tax 

credits and deductions are available to 

private businesses to offset expenses 

incurred to comply with the ADA. See 

Form 8836 at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/

f8826.pdf for additional information 

about the Disabled Access Credit 

established under Section 44 of the 

Internal Revenue Code. See Publication 

535 (Number 7: Barrier Removal) at 

www.irs.gov/publications/p535/index.

html for more information about the tax 

deduction, established under Section 190 

of the Internal Revenue Code. Both the 

tax credit and deduction may be taken 

annually.
Page 5 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

n accessible examination room has 

features that make it possible for 

patients with mobility disabilities, including 

those who use wheelchairs, to receive 

appropriate medical care. These features 

allow the patient to enter the examination 

room, move around in the room, and utilize 

the accessible equipment provided. The 

features that make this possible are:

an accessible route to and through the 

room;

an entry door with adequate clear width, 

maneuvering clearance, and accessible 

hardware;

appropriate models and placement of 

accessible examination equipment (See 

Part 4 for detailed discussion of accessible 

examination equipment.); and

adequate clear floor space inside the 

room for side transfers and use of lift 

equipment.

New and altered examination rooms must 

meet requirements of the ADA Standards for 

Accessible Design. Accessible examination 

rooms may need additional floor space 

to accommodate transfers and for certain 

equipment, such as a floor lift.

The number of examination rooms with 

accessible equipment needed by the medical 

care provider depends on the size of the 

practice, the patient population, and other 

factors. One such exam room may be 

sufficient in a small doctor’s practice, while 

more will likely be necessary in a large clinic.

Entry Doors

Under the ADA Standards for Accessible 

Design, an accessible doorway must have a 

minimum clear opening width of 32 inches 

when the door is opened to 90 degrees.

Clear Floor and Turning Space

Inside Examination Rooms

In order for accessible equipment to be usable 

by an individual who uses a wheelchair or 

other mobility device, that individual must 

be able to approach the exam table and 

any other elements of the room to which 

patients have access. The exam table must 

have sufficient clear floor space next to it 

so that an individual using a wheelchair can 

approach the side of the table for transfer 

Maneuvering clearances on both sides of 

the door must also comply with the ADA 

Standards. In addition, the door hardware 

must not require tight grasping, tight 

pinching, or twisting of the wrist in order 

to use it. Keep in mind that the hallway 

outside of the door and the space inside the 

door should be kept free of boxes, chairs, or 

equipment, so that they do not interfere with 

the maneuvering clearance or accessible 

route.

Plan view showing clear floor space on both 

sides of entry door to permit entry and exit

PART 3: ACCESSIBLE EXAMINATION ROOMS

A
PART 3: ACCESSIBLE EXAMINATION ROOMS

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 6

Plan view showing an outline of a clear 

floor space of 30 inches by 48 inches 

Patient sitting on adjustable height exam table 

positioned with clear floor space on both sides

Plan view of part of an examination room 

showing clear floor space for turning a 

wheelchair. This space can also make it 

possible for use of a portable patient lift. 

onto it. The minimum amount of space 

required is 30 inches by 48 inches. Clear floor 

space is needed along at least one side of an 

adjustable height examination table. 

Because some individuals can only transfer 

from the right or left side, providing clear 

floor space on both sides of the table allows 

one accessible table to serve both right and 

left side transfers. Another way to allow 

transfers to either side of exam tables, 

particularly when more than one accessible 

examination room is available, is to provide a 

reverse furniture layout in another accessible 

examination room. 

The room should also have enough turning 

space for an individual using a wheelchair to 

make a 180-degree turn, using a clear space of 

60 inches in diameter or a 60 inch by 60 inch 

T-shaped space. Movable chairs and other 

objects, such as waste baskets, should be 

moved aside if necessary to provide sufficient 

clear floor space for maneuvering and turning.

When a portable patient lift or stretcher is 

to be used, additional clear floor space will 

be needed to maneuver the lift or stretcher. 

Ceiling-mounted lifts, on the other hand, do 

not require the additional maneuvering clear 

floor space because these lifts are mounted 

overhead. (See Part 4 of this publication for 

more information about lifts.)

48 min

60 min

30 min
Providing space between 

table and wall allows staff to 

assist with patient transfers 

and positioning. When 

additional space is provided, 

transfers may be made from 

both sides.

PART 3: ACCESSIBLE EXAMINATION ROOMS

Page 7 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Accessible entry 

door has 32” 

minimum clear 

opening width 

with door open 

90 degrees.

Accessible route 

connects to other 

accessible public and 

common use spaces.

Maneuvering 

clearances are 

needed at the 

door to the 

room.

Adjustable 

height 

accessible exam 

table lowers for 

transfers.

A clear floor space, 30” X 

48” minimum, adjacent 

to the exam table and 

adjoining accessible route 

make it possible to do a 

side transfer.

Features of an Accessible Examination Room

Amount of floor space needed 

beside and at end of exam 

table will vary depending on 

method of patient transfer and 

lift equipment size.

Note: 

Additional clear floor space 

can be provided by moving or 

relocating chairs, trash cans, 

carts, and other items.
ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 8

A patient with a mobility disability 

is examined while lying down on an 

adjustable height exam table. 

An adjustable height exam 

table equipped with adjustable, 

padded leg supports.

vailability of accessible medical 

equipment is an important part of 

providing accessible medical care, and 

doctors and other providers must ensure 

that medical equipment is not a barrier to 

individuals with disabilities. This section 

provides examples of accessible medical 

equipment and how it is used by people 

with mobility disabilities. Such equipment 

includes adjustable-height exam tables 

and chairs, wheelchair-accessible scales, 

adjustable-height radiologic equipment, 

portable floor and overhead track lifts, and 

gurneys and stretchers. 

It is essential that a person with a disability 

receives medical services equal to those 

received by a person without a disability. 

For example, if a patient must be lying down 

to be thoroughly examined, then a person 

with a disability must also be examined 

lying down. Likewise, examinations which 

require specialized positioning, such as 

gynecological examinations, must be 

accessible to a person with a disability. To 

provide an accessible gynecological exam 

to women with paralysis or other conditions 

that make it difficult or impossible for them 

to move or support their legs, the provider 

may need an accessible height exam table 

with adjustable, padded leg supports, 

instead of typical stirrups. However, if the 

examination or procedure does not require 

that a person lie down (for example, an 

examination of the face or an x-ray of the 

hand), then using an exam table is not 

necessarily important to the quality of the 

medical care and the patient may remain 

seated.

Evaluating the existing equipment available, 

the space within the examination room, the 

size of the practice and staff, and the patient 

population is necessary to determine the 

equipment needed to provide accessible 

medical care.

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

A
Page 9 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

An adjustable height exam table 

shown in lowered and raised positions

Exam Tables and Chairs

Traditional fixed-height exam tables and 

chairs (also called treatment tables or 

procedure tables) are too high for many 

people with a mobility disability to use. 

Individuals with mobility disabilities often 

need to use an adjustable-height table which, 

when positioned at a low height, allows them 

to transfer from a wheelchair. A handle or 

support rail is often needed along one side 

of the table for stability during a transfer and 

during the examination. 

Individuals transfer to and from adjustableheight exam tables and chairs differently. 

Some will be able to transfer on their own 

by standing up from a mobility device, 

pivoting, and sitting down on the exam table. 

Those using walkers may simply walk to the 

exam table and sit down, while others with 

limited mobility may walk more slowly and 

need a steadying arm or hand to help with 

balance and sitting down. Some people using 

wheelchairs may be able to independently 

transfer to the table or chair, while others 

will need assistance from a staff member. 

Transfers may also require use of equipment, 

such as a transfer board or patient lift. 

An accessible exam table or chair should 

have at least the following:

ability to lower to the height of the 

wheelchair seat, 17-19 inches, or lower, 

from the floor; and

elements to stabilize and support a 

person during transfer and while on the 

table, such as rails, straps, stabilization 

cushions, wedges, or rolled up towels.

Once a patient has transferred, staff should 

ask if assistance is needed -- some patients 

may need staff to stay and help undress or 

stabilize them on the table. Never leave the 

patient unattended unless the patient says 

they do not need assistance. 

Different types of exam tables are used 

for different purposes. Some exam tables 

fold into a chair-like position; others remain 

flat. Either type can be used by people with 

disabilities with the right accessible features 

and table accessories. Pillows, rolled up 

towels, or foam wedges may be needed to 

stabilize and position the patient on the table. 

Tilt, adjustability, and headrests, footrests, 

and armrests may make the examination 

more accessible for the patient and also easier 

for the doctor.

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 10

36” wide 

minimum 

accessible 

route

30” X 48” 

minimum clear 

floor space 

adjacent to exam 

table and adjoining 

accessible route

Removable/

adjustable 

support rails with 

continuous gripping 

surfaces

Exam surface 

lowers to 17” 

to 19” or 

lower from 

the floor

Exam surface may articulate 

to provide support during 

patient transfers and 

positioning

Rails/armrests can be 

moved for transfers

Rails can be added 

beside the table surface 

to assist transfers, 

provide support, or 

prevent falls

Space to position a 

wheelchair alongside table 

is critical for transfer

Exam surface extensions, 

such as head and foot rests, 

provide additional support 

and positioning options

Positioning and 

support aids, 

such as wedges 

and rolled up 

blankets, should 

be available

Features of Accessible Exam Tables
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Page 11 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Gait belt with handles 

assists with guiding 

along transfer board

Transfer or sliding 

board acts as a 

bridge between 

wheelchair seat 

and table surface

Assisted transfer using a transfer board 

and gait belt with handles

Typical Transfer Techniques: 

Staff Assistance and Patient Lifts

Some individuals will need additional 

assistance to get on and off an exam table, 

even if it lowers to 17-19 inches from the floor. 

The kind of assistance needed will depend on 

the patient’s disability. The provider should 

ask the patient if he or she needs assistance, 

and if so, what is the best way to help and 

what extra equipment, if any, is needed. 

Some individuals will need only a steady hand 

from a staff person in order to transfer safely 

to the exam table. Other individuals will 

need simple tools such as a transfer board 

(a product made of a smooth rigid material 

which acts as a supporting bridge between a 

wheelchair and another surface, along which 

the individual slides) or sheet. Individuals 

using a transfer board may need assistance 

from a staff person.

Patients who can complete an independent 

transfer may prefer to do so for reasons of 

safety and simplicity. 

Using Patient Lifts

Medical providers may need a lift in order to 

transfer some patients safely onto an exam 

table. Patient lifts may move along the floor 

or be mounted on an overhead track attached 

to the ceiling or to a free-standing frame. A 

staff person operates the lift. To use the lift, 

a sling is positioned under the individual 

while sitting in the wheelchair. Then the 

sling is attached to the lift so the staff person 

can move the individual to the examination 

surface. Once over the surface, the individual 

is lowered onto the table, stabilized, and then 

the sling is detached from the lift. The sling 

may remain under the patient during the exam 

or may be removed, depending on the exam. 

A variety of slings are available to provide 

different kinds of support. 

Using lifts provides better security for the 

patient than being lifted by medical staff 

because there is less likelihood that the 

individual will be dropped or hurt in the 

process. Patient lifts also protect health 

care providers from injuries caused by lifting 

patients.

Portable Floor Lifts 

The most common types of lifts in medical 

settings are portable with a U-shaped base 

that moves along the floor on wheels. These 

bases must go under, or fit around, the exam 

table in order to accomplish the transfer. A 

lift’s base may fit around the bottom end of 

an exam table, or fit fully or partially under 

the table at a perpendicular angle to the table. 

Some lifts are more easily operated by two 

or more people; others may be operated 

by one person. An advantage of a portable 

floor lift is that it can be moved from room 

to room and thus used with multiple exam 
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 12

A low height, adjustable width base 

permits the lift to be positioned at the 

end of the examination table

Movable exam 

tables allow 

additional 

flexibility to 

position table 

and lift for 

optimal patient 

transfer

Notes for Portable Floor Lifts:

•	 The amount of clear floor

space needed to maneuver will 

depend on the type of floor lift 

equipment used. 

•	 Portable floor lifts must be

able to position the patient 

over the table surface; select 

a model that is compatible 

with the exam table and room 

configuration.

•	 A low height, adjustable width

base can move closer to the 

end of the exam table and can 

be narrowed for transit and 

storage.

Clearance beneath the exam table and 

an angled approach of the lift allows 

the patient to be positioned directly 

over the exam table for a safe transfer

tables. If a lift is used with multiple 

exam tables, the medical provider, 

depending on its size, may need to 

establish a procedure governing 

how the lift is shared and where 

it is stored. The provider should 

ensure that it does not schedule 

for the same appointment time 

more than one patient needing the 

lift. While these lifts may be less 

expensive than overhead lifts, they 

require more maneuvering space in 

the room and space for storage.

To properly and safely assist 

patients with transfers, medical 

staff will likely need training on 

how to operate the equipment 

and on safe patient handling 

techniques.

Assisted Transfer Utilizing a Portable Floor Lift

Assisted Transfer Utilizing Both a 

Portable Floor Lift and Movable Exam Table
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Page 13 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Ceiling structure must support 

weight of lift and person

Overhead track lifts can be 

used in rooms with limited 

floor space or where an exam 

table cannot accommodate a 

portable floor lift.

Assisted Transfer with Ceiling Mounted Overhead Track Lift

Overhead Track Lifts

Overhead track lifts include ceiling-mounted 

lifts and lifts mounted on a frame supported 

from the floor. 

Ceiling-Mounted Lifts

Ceiling mounted lifts are permanently 

mounted to the ceiling structure and run 

along one or more tracks. These lifts require 

no extra maneuvering space in the room 

adjacent to the exam table and require little 

storage space. However, they cannot be 

used in multiple exam rooms, since they are 

permanently attached to the ceiling structure. 
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 14

An overhead lift does not require the 

additional maneuvering space needed 

by a portable floor lift.

Free-standing overhead track lift 

systems function like ceiling-mounted 

lifts and do not require modifications 

to existing construction.

While not as portable as floor 

lifts with wheels, these lifts are 

movable and can be relocated as 

needs or services change.

Assisted Transfer with Free Standing Overhead Track Lift

Free-Standing Overhead Lifts

Another type of overhead lift is supported 

from a frame that rests on the floor. Freestanding, nonpermanent overhead track lifts 

are a good solution when the provider does 

not want the lift to be permanently installed 

or where the existing ceiling structure cannot 

support a ceiling-mounted overhead lift. The 

medical provider should choose the type of 

lift that will work best with the exam tables, 

the space, and the ceiling or floor structure of 

the medical facility.
Open space under stretcher 

allows close positioning of 

lift for transfer.

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Page 15 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Assisted Transfer to Stretcher Utilizing a Portable Floor Lift

Adjustable height 

stretchers facilitate 

transfer onto radiologic 

equipment with a table 

surface. Assisted transfers 

from a wheelchair may 

require use of a lift.

Additional Transfer Techniques: 

Use of Stretchers and Gurneys

Some equipment, including radiologic 

equipment, lacks space underneath necessary 

for a portable floor lift to be used. Other 

equipment may be located in spaces with 

no room at the end of the table making it 

impossible to position a portable floor lift. 

In such cases, an overhead track lift, either 

permanently mounted or free-standing, may 

provide access to the equipment. However, 

metal components of these overhead lifts 

may not be compatible with some radiologic 

technologies. 

When it is not feasible or possible to use a 

lift, another option is an adjustable-height 

stretcher or gurney (a table that is on wheels) 

that can be raised or lowered to the height 

of the exam table or surface. This approach 

involves a two step process in which the 

patient must transfer from their wheelchair 

to the stretcher, usually in a different space 

or area away from the equipment, and then 

from the stretcher to the table or surface. As 

many stretchers do not lower to 17” to 19” 

above the floor, an assisted transfer with a lift 

may be required to get the patient onto the 

stretcher. Stretchers that can be lowered to 

this range of typical wheelchair seat heights 

allow individuals capable of independent 

transfers a choice to do so if they prefer. 

Once the stretcher is positioned next to the 

equipment and set at the right height, many 

people will require assisted transfers utilizing 

devices such as transfer boards or slip sheets 

to get onto the table or surface. 
PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 16

Radiologic Equipment 

There are many types of radiologic 

technologies and equipment associated 

with them, including MRI, x-ray, CT scan, 

bone densitometry, mammography, and 

ultrasound. Most of these technologies 

require the patient to lie on a flat surface that 

is part of the equipment. The accessibility 

issues related to transfer to the surface are 

similar to those addressed previously under 

Examination Tables and Chairs. However, 

because the technology is often integrated 

into the table, the table may not be able to be 

lowered sufficiently. In these cases, use of a 

patient lift or another transfer and positioning 

technique is particularly important for access 

to this equipment.

Slip/slide sheets, 

boards, or other 

aids assist with 

lateral transfers.

Adequate floor space to 

maneuver and position stretcher

Stretcher locked in place to 

prevent movement during 

lateral transfer.

Assisted Transfer to Densitometer Utilizing a Stretcher 

Set stretcher 

height to be 

level with table 

surface for 

lateral transfer.

Many radiologic technologies also require 

the patient to keep still, which may be very 

difficult for some individuals with a mobility 

disability, including those with spasticity, 

tremor, or other condition. Patients may need 

a staff person to support them with pillows, 

rolled up towels, wedges, or by holding onto 

them. 
Accessible Mammography Machine

It is best to position 

equipment to allow 

both front and side 

approaches; for some 

patients a side or angled 

approach may be better 

for positioning at the 

camera unit and plate.

Unit pivots to multiple 

angles and adjusts 

in height for seated 

patients.

Clearance is needed 

beneath the camera 

unit and plate to 

allow people using 

wheelchairs and other 

mobility devices to pull 

up to the equipment.

Mammography Equipment 

A mammography exam typically requires 

the patient to stand up. Individuals who 

use wheelchairs will need to have an exam 

while seated in their wheelchair. The 

mammography machine will need to adjust 

to their height and accommodate the space 

of their wheelchair. People who walk with 

a mobility device or who cannot stand for 

prolonged periods of time may need to sit in a 

chair with adequate support, locking wheels, 

and an adjustable back and, like people who 

use wheelchairs, need the machine to adjust 

to their height once seated. Additionally, 

some patients may need support to lean 

forward.

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Page 17 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES
Sloped surface provides 

access to scale platform -- 

no abrupt level changes at 

floor or platform.

Edge protection 

at drop off

Large platform to accommodates 

various wheelchair sizes

Accessible Scale

Provide 

maneuvering 

space to pull onto 

and off scale.

Scales

A patient’s weight is essential medical 

information used for diagnostics and 

treatment. Too often, individuals who use 

wheelchairs are not weighed at the doctor’s 

office or hospital, even though patients 

without disabilities are routinely weighed, 

because the provider does not have a 

scale that can accommodate a wheelchair. 

Medical providers should have an accessible 

scale with a platform large enough to fit a 

wheelchair, and with a high weight capacity 

for weighing an individual while seated in his 

or her wheelchair. Other options may include 

a scale integrated into a patient lift, hospital 

bed, or exam table. 

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES Page 18
The previous information provides guidance 

on the ADA’s requirement to provide 

accessible health care to individuals with 

mobility disabilities as well as illustrated 

examples of accessible medical equipment, 

room and office configurations, and lifting 

and transfer equipment and techniques. 

This guidance, when applied and adapted 

to the specific needs and circumstances of 

individual health care providers, can help 

ensure that people with mobility disabilities 

have an equal opportunity to receive 

accessible health care services.

Staff Training

A critical, but often overlooked component 

to ensuring success is adequate and ongoing 

training of medical practitioners and staff. 

Purchasing accessible medical equipment 

will not provide access if no one knows how 

to operate it. Staff must also know which 

examination and procedure rooms are 

accessible and where portable accessible 

medical equipment is stored. Whenever 

new equipment to provide accessible care is 

received, staff should be immediately trained 

on its proper use and maintenance. New 

staff should receive training as soon as they 

come on the job and all staff should undergo 

periodic refresher training during each year. 

Finally, training staff to properly assist with 

transfers and lifts, and to use positioning 

aids correctly will minimize the chance of 

injury for both patients and staff. Staff 

should be instructed to ask patients with 

disabilities if they need help before providing 

assistance and, if they do, how best they can 

help. People with mobility disabilities are 

not all the same - they use mobility devices 

of different types, sizes and weight, transfer 

in different ways, and have varying levels of 

physical ability. Make sure that staff know, 

especially if they are unsure, that it is not 

only permissible, but encouraged, to ask 

questions. Understanding what assistance, 

if any, is needed and how to provide it, 

will go a long way toward providing safe 

and accessible health care for people with 

mobility disabilities. 

PART 4: ACCESSIBLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Page 19 ACCESS TO MEDICAL CARE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

For more information about the ADA, 

please visit The Department of Justice’s 

ADA Website or call our toll-free 

number:

ADA Website -- www.ADA.gov

ADA Information Line 

800-514-0301 (voice)

800-514-0383 (TTY)

24 hours a day to order 

publications by mail

M-W, F 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., 

Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. 

(eastern time) 

to speak with an ADA Specialist. 

All calls are confidential.

For more information about Section 

504, visit the Department of Health and 

Human Services Office for Civil Rights 

website at: www.hhs.gov/ocr. 

A list of HHS OCR regional offices near 

you can be found at: 

www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/about/rgnhqaddresses.html.

Section 504’s requirements for new 

construction and alterations to buildings 

and facilities are found at 45 C.F.R. Part 

84, Subpart C for receipients of federal 

financial assistance. The regulations are 

available at:

www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/resources/

laws/index.html.

For persons with disabilities, this publication is available in large print, Braille, audio tape, and computer disk. 

July 2010