Access to Medical Care for Individuals with Mobility Disabilities

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 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

1. A low height, adjustable width base permits the lift to be positioned at the end of the examination table

Assisted Transfer Utilizing Both a Portable Floor Lift and Movable Exam Table

1.Movable exam tables allow additional flexibility to position table and lift for optimal patient transfer

2.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

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.