Frequently
Asked
Questions
How long does it take to get a new wheelchair?
Empower Kids Rehab and Mobility, PLLC provides custom-built pediatric wheelchairs tailored to each child's specific needs. The 10 step process includes:
1. Completion of a thorough evaluation with a RESNA-certified occupational or physical therapist.
2. Discussion about the best wheelchair options for your child and family
3. Determination of custom seating and positioning components
4. Composition of a Letter of Medical Necessity
5. Completion of forms for insurance
6. Obtaining necessary signatures from the child's doctor
7. Insurance consideration and approval
8. Ordering and assembly of the wheelchair by the DME provider
9. Final fitting
10. Wheelchair skills training
Why should I use Empower Kids Rehab and Mobility, PLLC for my child’s wheelchair or equipment?
Empower Kids Rehab and Mobility, PLLC is a trusted provider of specialized pediatric wheelchairs and durable medical equipment. We employ RESNA-certified Assistive Technology Professionals (ATP) and Seating and Mobility Specialists (SMS).
What is RESNA and why is it important to use a RESNA certified therapist?
RESNA's Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) certification indicates expertise in assistive technology beyond standard therapy qualifications. Specifically, the ATP certification acknowledges proficiency in assessing consumer needs, aiding in assistive technology selection, and providing user training.
What is a Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS)?
The SMS certification recognizes competence in seating and mobility assessment, knowledge about funding resources and insurance requirements, outcome assessment and follow-up.
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The Seating and Mobility Specialist (SMS) is a specialty certification for professionals working in seating and mobility. While the ATP is a broad-based exam covering all major areas of assistive technology, the SMS exam is focused specifically on seating, positioning, and mobility.
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Karen Reckamp, OTR/L, ATP, SMS with Empower Kids Rehab and Mobility, PLLC has been an ATP since 2001 and SMS since 2015.Karen is the only pediatric certified ATP and SMS in Jacksonville, so you know your child is getting the best possible care.
How can I make an appointment?
Ask your child’s pediatrician to send a referral to our secure website at: referrals@empowerkidsrehabandmobility.com
Or
Complete a secure online referral form
https://www.empowerkidsrehabandmobility.com/referrals
What other equipment do you provide?
We provide comprehensive assessment and trials of the following positioning and mobility equipment: Gait Trainers, Walkers, Standers, Activity Chairs, Bath Chairs, Commode Systems, Medical Car Seats
Where are you located?
Empower Kids Rehab and Mobility, PLLC provides services in the home, daycare and at the offices of our DME providers.
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NuMotion: 2580 County Rd 220 #1, Middleburg, FL 32068
National Seating and Mobility: 11651 Central Pkwy Ste 121, Jacksonville, FL 32224
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*We will be expanding our services into the public school system in Fall 2026!*
Can I choose which DME provider I use?
Absolutely! We will work alongside the DME provider of your choice
Can my child’s therapist be involved in the process?
We utilize a patient-family centered care approach and encourage participation by all people involved in the child’s care.
Why do I need to come back for the wheelchair fitting?
A correctly configured wheelchair is crucial for independent movement, proper body alignment, long-term comfort, and preventing pressure sores.
My child’s wheelchair is too small, can I get a new one?
Properly prescribed pediatric wheelchairs are designed to accommodate a child's growth. Should the wheelchair no longer provide an appropriate fit, we offer comprehensive assessments for modifications to adjust and expand the chair, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving needs of your child.
My child is too small to push a wheelchair, why did his therapist recommend it? We want him to walk.
Early mobility is crucial for all children's development. For children with special needs, limited opportunities for movement can significantly hinder milestone achievement in critical areas such as cognition, social engagement, and visual perceptual skills.
Pioneering research by Charlene Butler et al. (1984) demonstrated that children aged 20 to 36 months could successfully learn to operate power wheelchairs, leading to positive shifts in their social, emotional, and intellectual behavior. Over the past four decades, a substantial body of evidence has consistently reinforced the profound benefits of self-initiated movement for children, underscoring its positive impact on the very skills mentioned above (Breed, 1982; Evans, 2017; Anderson et al., 2013; Plummer et al., 2020; Livingstone, 2010; Rosen et al., 2018; Nilsson et al., 1998). This perspective is powerfully reinforced by C. Kerry Jones, who asserted that mobility is a fundamental human right (Jones, 1993).