HCPCS Code E1140: Wheelchair, Detachable Arms, Desk or Full Length, Swing Away Detachable Footrests

Manual wheelchairs require the user to have sufficient upper extremity strength and stamina to propel them, or at least have someone to push them and guide them around. Power wheelchairs don't require upper extremity strength or a caregiver to push them. It can be controlled with a remote-like device attached to the wheelchair, and it has programmable control parameters for speed adjustment, acceleration control, etc. Power wheelchairs also have complex features like seat elevators.

The fitting process usually includes a training session on how to use the wheelchair, so it will likely take anywhere between one and two hours.

As with any wheelchair, there will be an adjustment period for the patient/beneficiary to get used to sitting on it, so they might feel discomfort for a bit. But as long as it was fitted properly, they won't feel any discomfort after a while. If they do, then it wasn't fitted properly. Prolonged use of the wheelchair might also lead to skin irritation and the development of pressure ulcers, so they need to get off the wheelchair every now and then.