Permobil Webinars: Recent Episodes
Permobil Academy
Learn more about Permobil products. Each episode takes an in-depth look at power, manual, or seating and positioning products from Permobil.
In this episode of Wheelchair Nerds, we're joined by Bobby Brown, a clinical psychologist and end user, and Kara Kopplin, Director of Regulatory Science for Permobil to discuss how science meets application in wheelchair cushion design. Bobby shares his personal journey of discovering the immense importance of selecting the perfect cushion for his needs, while Kara provides valuable insights into the rich history of ROHO and the underlying principles that drive their innovative designs.
Check out the new episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we have a fascinating conversation with Ashley Davis, Executive Director of the Permobil Foundation, and Amy Burnett, a member of the board of directors for the Permobil Foundation and a talented athlete representing Team USA in Para Badminton. We explore the rich history of the nonprofit organization, delve into the impactful areas of giving the Foundation is involved in, and hear Ashley and Amy share their most cherished moments of making a difference through the Foundation.
Tune in to the latest episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we catch up with Jim Stephenson and delve into the recent decision by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding coverage for seat elevation. Jim provides us with an insightful update on the developments since May 16 and gives us a glimpse into what we can expect for the rest of 2023. Join us as we explore the eligibility criteria for this groundbreaking technology and uncover the lingering questions that still need answers. Don't miss out on this informative discussion!
Join us for the latest episode of the Wheelchair Nerds podcast as we conclude our exciting 2-part series on navigating school life in a wheelchair. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hearing from clinicians Erin Baker, PT, DPT, ATP, CPST, and Stephanie Frazer, MS, OTR/L, CPST, as they delve into the important topics of selecting and maintaining the right mobility device for school, ensuring safe transportation to and from school, and empowering kids to fully participate in all aspects of school life, from academics to extracurricular activities. Don't miss out on their valuable insights and practical tips!
Join us on the newest episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we delve into the topic of maneuvering through school with a wheelchair. We have the pleasure of being joined by Tiffany and her daughter Sophia, as well as Sophia's physical therapist, Erin Baker from Nemours Children's Hospital in Florida. Together, we will explore Sophia's journey, tracing her path from pre-K all the way to her starting high school this fall.
Discover the latest episode in our ongoing wheelchair travel series, featuring the return of Kristy Durso, the owner of Incredible Memories Travel, and Jerod Nieder, the co-founder of Positively Paralyzed. Join us as Kristy and Jerod delve into the various challenges they have encountered while traveling and share their insights on how to navigate these tricky situations and the valuable lessons they have learned along the way.
Tune in to the newest episode of our podcast series on wheelchair travel, where we are delighted to have Kristy Durso, the owner of Incredible Memories Travel, and Jerod Nieder, the co-founder of Positively Paralyzed, join us. Together, Kristy and Jerod provide invaluable tips on how to ensure a successful wheelchair travel experience, covering everything from smoothly navigating the airport check-in process and boarding the plane, to arranging transportation and making the most of hotel accommodations. Don't miss out on their expert advice!
In the first of our series highlighting travel, we dive into all things accessible travel with Kristy Durso, the owner of Incredible Memories Travel. Kristy brings her expertise and passion for travel to this conversation. We talk tips for traveling and highlight some must visit places the US and abroad.
Check out the latest episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we discuss the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' decision on coverage for seat elevation. There is a lot to unpack on the approved criteria and next steps, and we discuss the impact of this decision and speculate on what's to come.
During this webinar Heather Cianciolo and Mauricio Arredondo explore ways SmartDrive can help people who use manual wheelchairs and propel themselves in non-traditional manners. Learn what types of configurations and settings might better fit users who foot-propel, use one-arm drive systems, tilt-in-space chairs, and even pediatrics users!
In the seating and mobility industry, ROHO has been setting the standard with its Dry Floatation technology for almost 50 years. By providing pressure redistribution and positioning attributes, ROHO continues to be asked for by name. But what exactly is behind the name, ROHO?
We chat with physical therapist, Tricia Garven, who has been providing ROHO Clinical Education for over 15 years. We hear why its science and technology continue to lead the industry. We also talk with Bobby Brown, who shares his personal experiences with ROHO products and how this has affected his life as a wheelchair user. Where has the name been? Where is it going… the future of ROHO is exciting!
Whether starting school for the first time or going back to school, helping to ensure a student has a positive experience both inside and outside of the classroom requires a great deal of planning and collaboration. For students who utilizes wheelchairs and their support network, the process can be even more overwhelming. From potential physical barriers, modifications for accessing curriculum, to enhancing perceptions of the student’s abilities there are many opportunities for fostering successful outcomes.
Listen to the candid conversation with folks from different areas and backgrounds as we share experiences and ideas for helping students maneuver through school in a wheelchair.
Power standing and power seat elevation can have a significant impact on an individual’s health, level of independence, and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, accessing this technology can be difficult for individuals who need it. This is because Medicare does not cover either function citing them as “not primarily medical in nature.”
In our first Stand for More webinar back in February, the panel of experts shared their perspectives and experiences with access to and advocacy for the power standing function on a power wheelchair. Since that time, there has been a great deal of work by many CRT industry stakeholders to move towards improved access for both power standing and power seat elevation.
In this podcast, we bring members of the original panel back together alongside our internal government affairs expert to discuss exciting industry updates related to access to critical power seat functions and learn how YOU can help influence change. We need everyone (individuals who use power wheelchairs, caregivers, clinicians, providers, friends, etc.) to stand for more and rise to the occasion!
When selecting an alternative drive control, finding the right match based on an individual's unique goals and abilities is key to a successful outcome. This podcast highlights consumer and clinical perspectives on alternative drive control selection.
Whether the priority is the need for enhanced control during driving, unique mounting options, consistent switch access, or technology integration, Permobil power wheelchairs are compatible with many different types of alternative drive controls emphasizing the importance of choice and adaptability.
Key features of the newly updated Permobil Total Control Head Array and the ASL FUSION Proportional and Digital Head Array, now available on Permobil M & F-series Corpus and Corpus VS models, are also discussed.
Standing as a therapy intervention has been broadly recognized as an effective method providing clinical outcomes and improvement of functions. Power standing wheelchairs offer great means for extending these outcomes to the domestic and community situation, adding additional functionality and also psychosocial outcomes. Permobil, with over 44 years of experience innovating and manufacturing standing power wheelchairs, has published a new white paper examining these benefits thanks to the efforts of a global clinical education and research team. The in-depth report looks at why users should have access to a power standing wheelchair to not only minimize the health risks of sitting, but to improve their overall health, performance of activities of daily living, social interactions, and mental well-being.
During this podcast, we discuss SpeedControl Dial, the new controller option for SmartDrive. The SpeedControl Dial brings next-level control and intuitiveness to SmartDrive. Users are now able to start, stop, and adjust their speeds by simply rotating the dial forwards or backwards. This new standard controller is provided as a free option when purchasing a SmartDrive. It is wired and is powered directly by the SmartDrive unit, so there is no need to charge two devices, and setup takes less than 5 minutes.
During this podcast, the innovative air technology behind the Vicair® O2 Cushion line is discussed. You'll learn how it is different from traditional air options on the market. As well, clinical applications and benefits are explained for the three Vicair® cushions within the Permobil Portfolio: Vicair® AdjusterO2, Vicair® Vector O2 and the Vicair® Active O2.
This podcast features a discussion about the latest SmartDrive wearable updates, including the app for Apple Watch. Learn how these updates can positively impact SmartDrive users and providers. This podcast also features a guest speaker who will share her experience using SmartDrive in her everyday life.
As consumers, clinicians, and equipment providers, how can you stand for more when it comes to power standing? This interactive panel discussion highlights why it’s important to consider power standing as a critical component in addressing overall health and life participation for individuals who utilize power mobility. Historically, there have been significant barriers to accessing this technology. We review how access to power standing is evolving and what you can do to be a part of the change. We are also excited to have Joseph be a part of the conversation, an individual who utilizes power standing, to speak to why this shift in access is so critical.
This one-hour podcast focuses on how this interdisciplinary guideline can be an evidence-based resource for all team members who are involved in the provision of assistive technology and powered mobility.
Andrea Dalzell, a registered nurse working in New York City, sat down with Grant Brogan to discuss pushing the New York marathon, the importance of an ultra lightweight wheelchair, and being an advocate for yourself. Join us for this webinar which features the recorded interview with Andrea as well as a live q & a with Andrea.
Permobil has a long-standing history of meeting the needs of our consumers with product innovation, customer service, and educational resources. It is critical that the people who use our seating and mobility equipment have access to information about the products that they are selecting.
This webinar will highlight a new educational resource: the Permobil Consumer Guide. You will hear how the Permobil Consumer Guide can provide talking points about advocacy, your right to choose your own equipment, who the team members are who will be assisting you, and how the evaluation may occur. We will also give examples of specific equipment examples and how that function or component may have an impact on health, function and social engagement*.
The Permobil Consumer Guide hopes to empower each individual with unique needs to know their options and feel more confident in asking for what they need and want. Whether you are getting your first wheelchair or your fourth, making your way through the world of mobility equipment can be confusing. That's why we've been working hard to create a guide that can help you navigate the equipment selection process, explain product features, configurations, and accessories. We've also included a variety of resources on funding, reimbursement, and maintenance. The more you can prepare yourself ahead of time, the easier it will be to have conversations with your doctor, occupational or physical therapist and your equipment provider.
We will also be joined by Amy Burnett, Team USA Para Athlete, Para Badminton and Permobil Foundation Board Member. She will share with us how she works with other consumers to better understand how they are in charge of the equipment process.
*The information that will be shared from this document is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be billing or legal advice. The information provided does not guarantee funding from any source. For coverage information, verify the policy of the appropriate provider.
Power seat functions, including ActiveReach, are vital for everyday life participation and health for many wheelchair users. Every person is unique, and ActiveReach is another example of how Permobil designs solutions ready to adapt to individual needs. This 1-hour webinar focuses on key ActiveReach features, including how this seat function combines seamlessly with other on-chair technologies. The result? A customizable Permobil solution made with quality from the ground up, ActiveReach makes it easier to find the perfect position for the task at hand.
Permobil is committed to supporting our Veterans and Clinicians at VA facilities across the country! Permobil is dedicated to advancing care and outcomes for our Veterans by providing technology that is made for more, so our Veterans can choose to do more.
Earlier this year Permobil received official clearance to proceed with Veteran use of the Permobil Connect platform, which includes MyPermobil and Fleet Management. During this webinar we will discuss this standard Permobil power wheelchair technology, newly available to Veterans and the VA. We will discuss how its value-added functionality can benefit Veterans, VA Clinicians, and Service Providers across the country.
In addition, Permobil is excited to announce new enhancements to SmartDrive that will also benefit Veterans, including more power for performance; more strength in mounting adaptors for the SmartDrive; and more accessibility with a universal padded handle. We will give examples of how proactive SmartDrive use allows Veterans, not only to protect themselves from repetitive stress injury, but also to realize their full potential in performance, even at a high level of competition at the NVWG.
Permobil values its unmatched relationships with our Veterans and the VA. Permobil will be at the NVWG and the PVA Summit to continue to provide support, training, and service. Please visit us at these events to learn more!
This webinar will focus on Permobil cushion solutions; which include Comfort, ROHO & Vicair. Product positioning through the attributes of great seating and product medium will help in selecting the appropriate cushion based on individual need. We will also review a new digital tool to assist in the cushion decision process.
During this webinar we will discuss the Wheelchair Seating Pocket Guide that was created in a partnership between Permobil and the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP). We will look at recommendations on patient screenings and referrals as well as product selection to take skin protection to the next level in your organization.
This webinar will highlight the recent partnership of Permobil and LUCI, as well as discuss Permobil’s unmatched relationships with the VA through conversations with members of the Permobil family who are veterans themselves, have worked in the VA system, or have a special working relationship with the VA.
This webinar looks at success stories related to Explorer Mini. Explorer Mini has brought excitement, movement, and mobility to many families throughout the last year.
This webinar will focus on the technical, programming and display parameters that are important to set up during or shortly after the dispense of a new Permobil power wheelchair.
This webinar takes a look at the ROHO® Hybrid Select, an exciting new hybrid seating solution by Permobil.
This webinar is designed to inform consumers on how to attend a seating and mobility evaluation feeling prepared to have discussions about equipment selection.
This webinar will introduce the new 2021 M-Series. We will explore key concepts relating to mid-wheel drive suspension performance, power positioning to enhance function, and advanced technology that enables end-users to travel farther with confidence.
This 1-hour webinar will review the extensive product offering that Permobil seating and mobility solutions can provide for people who are people living in larger bodies.
This webinar highlights recent and ongoing updates for the PushTracker E2 and how to get more out of the PushTracker E2 by reviewing some of the less talked about features.
This webinar highlights the benefits of selecting the Permobil F5 VS as your power standing solution.
We will discuss how Permobil Connect can help with education, training, and service during our current climate of limited contact. Not only is remote service and equipment awareness important right now, it will be helpful for the lifetime of a Permobil power chair. We will go over the Connect platform, how to activate a chair, the Fleet Management tool, and what is new for our consumers in the MyPermobil app.
This 1-hr webinar will discuss the full line of TiLite custom manual wheelchair solutions, and specialty custom options, available to maximize performance and meet each client’s unique needs.
Amid this COVID-19 crisis, two major areas of concern surround the healthcare community: infection control to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus and pressure injury management for individuals that are less mobile due to the illness or stay at home mandates.
In this webinar, Ana Endsjo, MOTR/L will discuss how we can and should approach these two issues jointly. Thankfully, there are solutions that allow clients and caregivers to meet the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for infection control, while simultaneously protecting the skin to minimize the risk of pressure injury development.
This product webinar will pick up where the Explorer Mini ended. Amy Morgan, PT, ATP will provide skilled guidance for selecting appropriate seating and mobility solutions as a child grows and initiates greater independence in the world. Additionally, what factors define "function" for a child will be discussed, especially as it pertains to selecting manual or powered mobility as well as seating and positioning supports.
Complex Rehab Technology (CRT) requires attention, care, and maintenance to make sure it can perform to the highest capacity for each individual. The more that an individual can manage and take care of equipment, the longer it can last as well.
When providing a therapeutic intervention for our youngest clients, it is a well known that the earlier a child receives that intervention, the faster they can adapt, learn, and develop. The Permobil Explorer Mini is a developmental tool to assist in making this happen as quickly as possible.
Persons aging with a disability often experience accelerated onset of health, function and participation challenges that require proactive technology solutions.
The shoulder is often considered when determining appropriateness of manual mobility, but do we consider the impacts of other types of seating and mobility equipment on the shoulder? How does the client’s access to their environment, their posture, and their support surface impact the shoulder? This webinar will begin with a review of shoulder anatomy and physiology. Following a review, we will discuss how the Permobil products – power wheelchairs, seating and positioning products, manual wheelchairs, and power assist can directly impact shoulder health and function. By the end of the webinar, the attendee should be able to better understand how complex rehab technology (CRT) equipment directly impacts the shoulder and the client’s functional independence.
For decades, test standards have been developed around the world to measure and characterize wheelchair seating solutions, specifically wheelchair cushions. These standardized "bench tests" allow for an objective, scientific approach to analyze support surfaces and understand the potential benefits to the wheelchair client. In this webinar, participants will gain an understanding of the network of standards committees, including ANSI/RESNA in the US, CEN in Europe, and ISO internationally. An overview of the current standards work will be presented, with consideration given to how these test measures relate to client needs, market and regulatory requirements, and the new international clinical guidelines recently published by NPIAP/EPUAP/PPPIA for pressure injury prevention.
We will discuss navigating the complex rehab technology (CRT) landscape. At Permobil, we believe that "[e]very person has the right" to access the most advanced technology that will meet their needs. This is becoming more of a challenge with funding limitations and restrictions from all third-party payor sources. This webinar will discuss how a clinician, equipment provider, and person using a mobility device can navigate these challenges and ensure access to their necessary equipment needs. We want to help take a person from "wow that's a cool device" to "that's My Cool Device. Highlights will include manual chair considerations such as ultra-lightweight qualifications, titanium manual wheelchair frames; power mobility topics such as ActiveReach and power standing, and obtaining replacement components throughout the life of the chair, as well as power assist devices and time frames of replacing seating and positioning products. This information is specific to US Funding landscape.
ROHO® is a technology which has been supporting clients and protecting skin for nearly 50 years. ROHO® is perhaps most well-known for its skin protection seat cushions. However, the benefits of ROHO® technology extend beyond the wheelchair for usage in a variety of Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, and functional transfers. This webinar will educate participants to the four principles of ROHO® Dry Flotation Technology, and explain how specific ROHO® products can be utilized for activities outside of the wheelchair including bathing, toileting, sleeping, driving, and medical care treatments.
The Permobil PushTracker E2 & SwitchControl for SmartDrive will allow more people to do more things with a SmartDrive. The PushTracker E2 is the new wearable, designed to bring modern, everyday technology to the SmartDrive experience. People who choose to use a SmartDrive now have the option to use a smart wearable to control their SmartDrive. Improvements such as a stronger and more reliable Bluetooth connection and an easy to read touch screen make interacting with the SmartDrive easier than ever. SmartDrive also now has the ability to be controlled through switches. What used to be known as the Thumb Throttle now comes standard with every SmartDrive. Switch control can be set to a momentary or latched mode, and the speed is programmed separate from the PushTracker controls. There is also an option to integrate any switch through a mono jack port. Please join us for a preview to see how the PushTracker E2 and Switch Control work to improve the SmartDrive user experience.
The Permobil PushTracker E2 & SwitchControl for SmartDrive will allow more people to do more things with a SmartDrive. The PushTracker E2 is the new wearable, designed to bring modern, everyday technology to the SmartDrive experience. People who choose to use a SmartDrive now have the option to use a smart wearable to control their SmartDrive. Improvements such as a stronger and more reliable Bluetooth connection and an easy to read touch screen make interacting with the SmartDrive easier than ever. SmartDrive also now has the ability to be controlled through switches. What used to be known as the Thumb Throttle now comes standard with every SmartDrive. Switch control can be set to a momentary or latched mode, and the speed is programmed separate from the PushTracker controls. There is also an option to integrate any switch through a mono jack port. Please join us for a preview to see how the PushTracker E2 and Switch Control work to improve the SmartDrive user experience.
You may have heard the saying: “There is a cushion for every buttocks and a buttocks for every cushion”. This absolutely holds true when it comes to selecting the correct seating surface. While the ability to make the correct match to each individual is a great opportunity, it can be an overwhelming experience as the choices are endless! How do you select the right cushion for your client? We will review the vast array of cushions that Permobil offers and provide suggestions on how to select the cushion based on therapeutic and client-centered goals.
This webinar will examine best practice application of ActiveReach to facilitate optimal outcomes based on the ICF model, as well as end-user satisfaction. Clinical applications, measurement tools and documentation strategies will also be discussed.
Achievement of seating goals while promoting client comfort is a primary objective of the wheelchair evaluation process. Easing the client’s ability to successfully use the seating system, including appropriate power seat functions, helps to maximize functional and postural outcomes. Ideally power wheelchair seating systems should adapt to meet the end-user’s specific needs and reduce secondary complications while maintaining clean aesthetics and durability over time.
This webinar will highlight the intricate nature of prescribing a one of a kind TiLite ultra lightweight manual wheelchair, including discussion from a person using a TiLite manual wheelchair for mobility.
Drive wheel configuration is one of the many critical decisions one has to make when completing a power wheelchair evaluation. This webinar discusses the intended use of front wheel drive configurations, the impact that front wheel drive can have on functional mobility and the influence of drive wheel placement when completing MRADLs. We also discuss the history and intended use of the design as well as what is new in the ongoing development of the product with the launch of the Permobil F-Series for 2019.
This presentation will discuss applications of Permobil Connect and its benefits from the perspectives of wheelchair end-users, providers, clinicians and manufacturers. We will explore how connecting the wheelchair with emerging technology, Bluetooth, and smart phone applications provides new opportunities to improve end-user health, function, and participation outcomes, as well as provides data to strengthen justifications and to fuel research. We will also discuss how Permobil Connect can positively impact the service model of wheelchair providers, including increasing efficiency and offering proactive service opportunities for common items on the chair that require maintenance or repair.
Manual wheelchair propulsion subjects the users’ shoulders to unintended mobility for an extended duration. For some manual wheelchair users, long distances and inclines can seem daunting and at times may limit activity and participation. While power assist devices for manual wheelchairs have been around in some form for years, the technology has continued to advance. Join us for this one-hour webinar to learn how the SmartDrive power assist device can maximize independence! A review of the SmartDrive unit, Push TrackerTM and available smartphone applications will provide clarity surrounding the functionality and clinical applications of the SmartDrive.
This webinar session will review the basics of ROHO® seating and positioning technology reminding us that the ‘basics’ have been working for over 45 years! Clinical case examples will be utilized to demonstrate clinical application of various ROHO features and products, assisting with positive outcomes for our clients. Although ROHO has had long standing success with tissue viability and pressure injury management, there are also many other reasons why the various ROHO product lines work and multiple issues that ROHO can be used to solve.
With advancing technology, power wheelchair electronics provide a powerful tool to control an individual’s mobile device, computer and even their larger environment such as lights and doors via Smartphone Apps and hardware. Although integrated Bluetooth® in the power wheelchair electronics has been available in some form for years, the application and use of these features continues to be limited by a lack of knowledge and a perception of complexity. Join us for an interactive review of the integrated no-cost Bluetooth® capabilities of the standard Permobil® Joystick Module.
Though standing is not a new concept in the world of CRT, the way we approach the evaluation and justification of integrated standing is. This webinar will give you the tools to assess the ideal candidate for power standing and strategies for streamlining the process of the trials, coverage, and deliveries! It is time to stop avoiding and start doing!
This exciting webinar goes over the Permobil TiLite Pilot pediatric manual wheelchair from inception to utilization. Members from Permobil’s education, design, and engineering teams discuss the revolutionary pediatric wheelchair that can enhance function and utilization for our youngest TiLite riders.