Obviously most of us quads need to go through the rehab process and go with an OT/PT for a wheelchair evaluation to make sure the power wheelchairs and the cushions we use together are right/appropriate for our bodies and will last us for many many many years.
But recently when I was looking through some random websites I came across the following ADVERTISEMENT of a "new" foldable power chair on the market (not a scooter) and this shows how an electric wheelchair really only costs around it $2000. But because so many of us quads* need/require* the rehab power chairs and therefore need to go through the whole "process" of obtaining one - companies like Permobil, Pride Mobility and Invacare can charge insurance companies over $30,000 for our power chairs. Because my only insurance is Medicare and I chose the "elevate" option (which is not a Medicare approved option) I had a co-pay of $7500 for my Permobil M300 in September of 2011. But after receiving my explanation of benefits the cost of my chair was $30,000. And those companies are rolling in the dollars big time because of this not to mention the cushions we need. Most everything (or everything) comes right down to money money money money. So just FYI if you have not seen it already: http://www.discovermymobility.com/store/powerwheelchairs/green-transporter/ez-ultra-lite/ob.html?gclid=CM_4ktjnossCFYqPfgodKtcA3A OR: http://www.ezlitecruiser.com/products/ez-lite-cruiser-deluxe-dx12?utm_source=google&utm_medium=shopping&utm_term=ezlitecruiserdx12&utm_content=pla&utm_campaign=0001&gclid=CIuYwJHYossCFQeRfgodoVYGKA&variant=4207296836 -- "Petting, scratching and cuddling a dog could be soothing to the mind and heart and deep meditation and almost as good for the soul as prayer." ~Dean Koontz
