As we grow older or experience illness, accessibility can play a critical role in visiting new destinations.
If you regularly use a manual or powered wheelchair, power scooter, or rollator, you're all too familiar with the importance of accessibility. There's nothing worse than being excited to visit a bucket list destination or new restaurant, only to find uneven ground that makes it inaccessible to wheelchair users.
Don't let accessibility limitations negatively affect your travel experience. For those unexpected travel situations, you need portable ramps. In this guide, we'll go over how these access ramps can transform your independence while on-the-go.
What is a Portable Wheelchair Ramp?
A portable wheelchair ramp is what it sounds like: a wheelchair ramp designed to fold or disassemble with ease. These ramps are lightweight, offer easy installation, and provide a proactive and flexible solution for overcoming accessibility challenges when traveling.
Benefits of portable wheelchair ramps:
Increased independence: Unlock new possibilities with portable ramps! These handy ramps give mobility device users the independence to confidently enter and exit areas that were once off-limits.
Safety: Portable ramps can eliminate the need for potentially dangerous improvised accesses like curbs and stairs.
Easy to install and use: Portable wheelchair ramps are incredibly easy to use and convenient for travelers. They require no installation, and they can be set up quickly by a single person. Additionally, these ramps are designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to store and transport.
Cost-effective: In comparison to more permanent ramp solutions, travel-friendly wheelchair ramps can be extremely cost-effective. If you’re on a budget, these ramps enhance mobility without breaking the bank.
Broadens travel opportunities: Say "yes" to every opportunity with portable wheelchair ramps- don't let a lack of accessibility hold you back. Simply bring your own mobility ramp and create your own safe path forward.
Affordable, lightweight, and even comes with a travel bag to easily carry it to your next destination. With an impressive weight capacity of 600lbs and durable construction, this ramps is the perfect blend of portability and sturdiness to support any mobility device.
Whether you're at home or out and about, the EZ Access Singlefold ramp provides a seamless incline to help any wheelchair user navigate thresholds, curbs, entrances, and even vehicles. Setting it up is a breeze, and when not in use you simply fold and carry it like a suitcase. With its durable, all-aluminum construction, this ramp is built to last and can offer reliable assistance for many years to come.
Constructed from lightweight aluminum, this portable ramp is easy to transport and store: simply break it into two pieces, then fold into a compact design. Its 30” width accommodates most wheelchair users, and it's available in various lengths with an impressive 800-pound capacity to support even heavy duty scooters. The ramp features an anti-slip surface, safety rails, and rear reflectors for nighttime use. Need to pack up and head to your next destination?A unique “no-pinch” hinge design, velcro straps, and integrated handle make it safe and effortless to use and carry.
Don't let an unexpected incline angle or stairs ruin your travel plans. With a mobile wheelchair ramp, you can confidently enjoy any excursion, even with reduced mobility. Spend quality time with your family members and loved ones, creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.
For customers, loved ones, or anyone with a mobility device, a wheelchair ramp can make a world of difference in everyday life. These ramps let users safely and independently access buildings and places that would otherwise not be possible for them.
If you’re a business owner, installing a wheelchair ramp at your business may be mandatory in order to comply with ADA requirements. But these ramps aren’t just for businesses– consider installing a ramp at your home for greater day-to-day accessibility.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the differences between a temporary vs permanent wheelchair ramp so that you can make the best purchase decision for your unique needs.
What are Wheelchair Ramps?
Wheelchair ramps are platforms that make it easy for people with mobility restrictions to navigate inclines and declines. They can be essential for those who use wheelchairs, power scooters, rollators, and even busy parents with strollers.
An accessible alternative to stairs (and far more affordable than an elevator), wheelchair ramps are typically made from materials like aluminum, concrete, and wood. Costs vary widely: a small threshold ramp can be purchased for under $200, while structured permanent ramps can cost thousands.
These ramps are typically installed in places of transition. For example: business entrances, parking garages, home decks, etc. They’re a simple way to make any place more welcoming and inclusive.
Temporary vs. Permanent Wheelchair Ramps
One of the first decisions you’ll make when purchasing a wheelchair ramp is choosing between temporary or permanent options.
These portable ramps are an ideal option when a wheelchair ramp will only be required for a short period of time, such as for events or to accommodate a temporary injury.
A temporary ramp is generally more affordable and doesn't require expensive construction costs. They can be set up in a single afternoon without making permanent alterations to your home or business.
Temporary ramps are an out-of-the-box solution and don’t have unlimited options for customization. You can purchase modular ramps in many dimensions to fit your space, but they are not as customizable as a ramp built specifically for your home or business.
Permanent Wheelchair Ramp
Need a solution for more long-term accessibility needs? Consider purchasing a permanent wheelchair ramp. Usually made from sturdy materials like wood or concrete, these ramps are built to last. A permanent ramp may be ideal if you own a home where a family member has an ongoing disability, or are a business with a more permanent location.
Because permanent ramps can be custom-built precisely to your needs, they are more customizable than temporary ramps. Not only will it perfectly fit the dimensions of your space, but you can specify the design and style of the ramp. For businesses that would like to maintain a specific aesthetic style, a permanent ramp may be a preferable choice.
Permanent wheelchair ramps can provide increased durability in the long run, though they are more expensive. These ramps require construction time, labor, and materials. While they can increase the value of your property, often specific Zoning restrictions need to be taken into account.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Ramp
Here are some factors to consider when choosing between a temporary and permanent wheelchair ramp:
Personal needs: Who will be using this ramp? What are their specific mobility requirements?
Timeframe: How long will the ramp be needed?
Portability: Will you move locations in the future? If so, consider portable wheelchair ramps. If you'll be moving frequently, you may look into a folding ramp or suitcase ramps for easy transport.
Budget: What is your budget for this ramp?
Compliance: Keep in mind local Zoning regulations and ADA guidelines
Space: What dimensions does your ramp need to accommodate?
Additional Features: Do you want your ramp to include continuous handrails? Safety edges? Raised landings?
Style: Do you need your ramp to fit with a certain aesthetic or style? For example, a business may choose to install wood or concrete ramps to match existing building architecture.
Closing the Gap: Improve Accessibility for All
A wheelchair ramp can help open the doors of your home or business to more experiences and greater community engagement. Whether you need the flexibility of a portable ramp or are looking for the stability of a permanent installation, adding a ramp to your home or business can do a long way in improving accessibility for all.
Not sure what the best wheelchair ramp is for your needs or budget? Contact our team of product experts at any time– with decades of experience, we’ll work with you to find the perfect solution for your space.
Invested in a ramp? Here is a guide on how to prolong the life of a ramp.
For individuals and loved ones with limited mobility, wheelchair ramps are critical tools to access the world around them. Whether installed in a home setting, or public building, or folded and taken on trips, a wheelchair ramp can provide safety and increased independence for many.
Like any other piece of equipment, it’s important to consider periodic maintenance for your wheelchair ramp. This makes sure it remains safe and functional, as well as can significantly prolong its product lifespan.
In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about maintaining your wheelchair ramp– cleaning, proper maintenance, and storage– all to keep it in pristine condition for years to come.
Understanding Your Wheelchair Ramp
Types of Wheelchair Ramps
Wheelchair ramps are constructed from various materials, each with its own unique properties. For example: an aluminum wheelchair ramp is lightweight, while wooden ramps are sturdier and offer a natural aesthetic (and more maintenance overall). If you’re looking for a portable ramp, you might consider a rubber ramp. While there are some commonalities across the board, the lifecycle and maintenance requirements of ramps do vary according to your model and ramp material.
Common Usage and Wear Patterns
Where is your ramp most commonly stationed? Constant exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, and other weather conditions may cause wear and tear on your ramp surface. Increased traffic over time (for example, if your ramp is installed at the entrance to a busy store) can damage the ramp’s joints and edges.
Cleaning Your Wheelchair Ramp
Once or twice a month, take the time to keep your ramp clean. Start by simply sweeping off any loose debris with a broom or dustpan, then use mild soapy water and a soft bristled brush to scrub away dirt, grime, and stains from the ramp's surface.
For particularly tough stains (think grease, oil, pet urine, or a wood stain), use a specialized cleaning solution or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. If you notice a rust build-up on metal ramps, you can remove these deposits by using a wire brush before cleaning the area.
If you live in an area that frequently experiences snow and harsh winter weather, you may periodically need to scrape ice and shovel snow off of your ramp to prevent build-up and ensure safe access for those who use it.
Wheelchair Ramp Maintenance
Regular maintenance and early intervention are key to preserving your ramp’s life. Every month or so, take a few minutes to inspect the ramp’s surface, edges, and joints for signs of wear and tear. These can include cracks, dents, rust deposits, loose bolts, etc. If you notice these signs, do what you can to fix the ramp or enlist the help of someone who can.
Storing Your Wheelchair Ramp
For short-term storage (days or weeks), keep your ramp in a dry, accessible area to prevent damage and avoid tripping hazards.
If you’re looking to store your wheelchair ramp for a longer term, you may disassemble the ramp, breaking it apart into smaller pieces. Wrap each piece, label pieces, and store them in a clean, dry, location. Your wheelchair will remain in great condition for years, ready to be re-installed whenever needed.
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For many, a wheelchair ramp in a home or public setting can be a bridge to a more accessible, fulfilling lifestyle. Regular wheelchair ramp maintenance can extend this bridge even further, keeping your ramp like-new and secure for decades for decades to come.
Business owners and ADA requirements- a guide to navigating ADA compliance.
If you’re a business owner with a physical storefront or office space, it’s important that you understand and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This civil rights law, which was launched in 1990, is a cornerstone of accessibility requirements for individuals with disabilities. Under Title III of the ADA, all businesses that are classified as “public accommodations”— a term that refers to businesses that are open to and serve the public— must comply with the ADA.
For business owners with physical spaces, ADA compliance includes ensuring that visitors with a mobility device or mobility limitations can safely navigate your building. In practice, this can mean things like offering accessible parking spaces, installing wheelchair ramps to create accessible routes adding handrail extensions to stairs, and more (also see Med Mart's portable ramps).
This guide will offer information for business owners about ADA wheelchair ramp requirements
What Happens if I Don’t Comply with ADA Requirements?
Businesses found in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) can be fined up to $75,000 for a first offense, and $150,000 for additional violations.
Separate from fines, private parties can file lawsuits against your business which lead to costly litigation fees and settlements.
Beyond avoiding fines and legal consequences, prioritizing ADA compliance will ensure that you create a welcoming, inclusive environment for your customer base. When you make sure that visitors with mobility impairments can safely access your business, you’re improving their experience and broadening your pool of potential customers.
No matter the size of your business, it’s important that you take ADA compliance seriously.
What to Know About ADA Ramp Requirements for Wheelchair Ramps
When Do I Need to Install a Ramp?
A wheelchair ramp is a solution to help customers who use wheelchairs and other mobility aids safely access your business. They can also be beneficial for individuals with strollers, rolling suitcases, or vision impairments.
According to ADA standards , businesses must install a mobility ramp if their entryway includes a vertical rise greater than 1/2 inch. Ramp installation is necessarily it is “readily achievable” or reasonable for the business owner to install them.
Wheelchair Ramp ADA Standards
An ADA compliant ramp must meet the following specified requirements:
Ramp Surface: A stable and slip-resistant surface for maximum safety.
Width: A minimum width of 36 inches to accommodate wheelchair users.
Ramp Slope: The slope is the vertical rise of the ramp. Ramps must have a maximum slope of 1:12 to ensure easy navigation; for every 12 inches of length, the height should rise no more than 1 inch.
Handrails: Handrails are required on both sides if the ramp's rise exceeds 6 inches.
Edge Safety: Curbs or railings should be implemented to prevent accidental falls or slips off the ramp's edge.
Landings: Level landings at both ends of the wheelchair ramp and every 30 feet for resting purpose
Cross Slope: The perpendicular cross slope of the wheelchair ramp must be a maximum rise ratio of 1:48
3 Types of Ramps
There are multiple different types of wheelchair ramps, depending on specific use cases.
#1 Entryway Ramp
These wheelchair ramps are installed to help customers access the entryway of your building, usually as an accessible alternative to stairs.
These ramps are either one solid piece or can be purchased as a modular ramp to be perfectly customized to fit the unique architecture of your building.
Indoor threshold ramps help customers navigate small steps or uneven floors. Made of durable materials like rubber, aluminum, or composite, they provide a safe and seamless transition between heights.
#3 Curb Ramp
Curb ramps facilitate smooth transitions from sidewalks to roadways. These ramps are essential for wheelchair users, but can also be helpful for people pushing strollers or carts. Built up curb ramps allow businesses to install a compliant ramp without altering the sidewalk.
Ready to Invest in Inclusivity?
ADA compliance isn't just good practice—it's essential for business owners. By meeting ADA ramp requirements, you're avoiding costly fines and legal ramifications, as well as sending a message of inclusion and respect to all your customers.
A wheelchair ramp can be necessary for some businesses to create an accessible route, but installing one doesn’t have to break the bank. At Med Mart, we offer a full catalog of semi-permanent solutions designed to meet ADA ramp requirements. These sturdy ramps are affordable, can be installed in a single afternoon (no costly construction required), and can be disassembled and moved should your business change locations.
If you’d like to take the next step toward inclusivity for your business by purchasing an ADA compliant ramp, feel free to browse our selection of wheelchair ramps or get in touch with a Med Mart project expert today. We’d love to help.
Imagine running errands, only to find that you aren't even able to enter a store due to the way their entrance is built.
As a business owner, it's important to make sure that your business is accessible to customers of varying mobility needs. If your building includes areas with steep curbs, stairs, or other difficult pathways, this may mean installing a mobility ramp.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that all companies must make their public facilities accessible to customers with disabilities. For customers who use a wheelchair, walker, or power scooter and may struggle with steps, a mobility ramp can offer the perfect solution to help them safely access your business.
In this guide, we'll cover the basics of what you need to know about choosing and installing a wheelchair ramp on commercial property.
Top 3 Reasons for Installing a Mobility Ramp
ADA Compliance
For US business owners, ADA compliance is mandatory. Companies must make sure that their buildings can accommodate users with a wide range of abilities, or risk facing fines and serious legal action.
Expand Your Customer Base
Adding a ramp instantly makes your establishment more appealing to a wider range of people—be it individuals using wheelchairs or parents with strollers. Offering a more convenient way to enter your business means more foot traffic— broadening your customer base overnight.
Boost Safety and Customer Experience
Installing a ramp is also safer than relying on stairs alone, particularly in inclement weather. This provides an extra layer of safety for your customers and simplifies moving heavy objects to and from your building interior.
What to Know About ADA Ramp Requirements
To meet ADA compliance, your wheelchair ramp must meet certain specified requirements:
Surface: Your ramp should have a stable and slip-resistant surface.
Width: At a minimum, it should be 36 inches wide.
Slope: Stick to a maximum slope of 1:12; for every 12 inches of length, the height should rise no more than 1 inch.
Handrails: If the ramp's rise is over 6 inches, handrails on both sides are mandatory.
Edge Safety: Implement curbs or railings to stop accidental falls or slippage off the ramp's edge.
Landings: Remember to include level landings at both ends of the ramp, and at least every 30 feet in between, for resting purposes.
Consider the following factors when searching for the perfect mobility ramp for your needs:
Cost: Budget matters, and a wheelchair ramp cost can vary between a few hundred dollars and several thousand dollars. Choose a ramp that meets your needs while staying within budget.
Weather: What weather conditions will the ramp regularly be exposed to? If your ramp is outdoors, it may need to withstand, rain, snow, flooding, or any other number of weather conditions.
Portability: Some ramps are specifically designed to be able to be disassembled and reassembled quickly. This can be especially helpful if your shop occasionally changes locations or is on a rented property. We have a range of portable ramps to choose from.
Space: Make sure the ramp fits well in your available area and doesn't block any essential paths.
Material: Most commercial ramps are made of a combination of wood, steel, aluminum, concrete, and rubber. Select the material best suited to your area's weather conditions, your style preference, and budget.
Installation & Maintenance: Some modular ramps take only an hour or two to install, while other models require multiple days and a full installation team.
There are a wide variety of different mobility ramps for business needs, each offering unique features, styles, and benefits.
Here are some examples of specific, specialized types of ramps that you may consider in addition to standard wheelchair ramps.
These semi-permanent ramps are highly customizable to fit the unique architecture of your building. Don't worry about finding a ramp to precisely fit your building, modular ramps can be adjusted, extended, or disassembled as your needs evolve. They're an excellent option for businesses looking for a long-term but flexible solution, or that move frequently.
Designed to facilitate smooth transitions from sidewalks to roadways, curb ramps are crucial for making public spaces more accessible. They are typically made of concrete, but portable options are available as well. These ramps are essential for wheelchair users, as well as for people pushing strollers or carts.
Primarily used indoors, threshold ramps help people navigate small steps or uneven floors within a building. These ramps are often made of rubber, aluminum, or composite materials.
Not only are mobility ramps a legal necessity for some businesses, but they can go a long way in increasing customer satisfaction and widening your pool of potential customers.
To find the perfect compliant mobility ramp for your home or business, check out our online catalog of ramps at Med Mart. Our team of product experts are always available to help you select the right ramp for your individual needs.
Navigating the Tax Landscape of Medical Devices – A State-by-State Guide
When purchasing medical devices for personal or family use, your state may impact the overall cost of your items. While most states provide some form of sales tax exemption for medical devices, the details vary from state to state.
In general, most states provide a blanket exemption for all medical devices, or a tax exemption for medical devices prescribed by a licensed provider. However, there are some exceptions.
In this blog, we'll provide an overview of medical device taxes in each state.
Exemptions for All Prescribed Devices
To meet the tax exemption, these states require that a medical device be either prescribed or dispensed by a physician.
Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington D.C., and West Virginia.
Exemptions for all Devices Regardless of Prescription
These devices do not require a prescription from a physician in order to meet tax exempt status.
Wyoming, Nevada, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, Alabama, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey
Some Classes of Devices Taxed
In the following states, medical devices may be exempt from tax within certain situations. It's important to note the specifics, as exemptions often apply based on prescription, usage, or type of device.
If you live in one of the following states, we recommend researching the specific sales tax code to see if it applies to your situation.
Georgia: Exceptions apply to DME sold or prescribed by a physician
Minnesota: Subject to tax unless sold for home use or qualified under Medicare/Medicaid
Mississippi: Exemptions for certain equipment like prosthetics, orthotics, hearing devices, etc.
Montana: Subject to tax, with the exception of certain therapeutic and prosthetic devices.
Nebraska: Prescription required for mobility devices. For DME equipment, a prescription and eligibility for the medical assistance program must be established.
New Mexico: Exempt only if delivered by a licensed practitioner and the value of the device is included in the cost of service.
Ohio: Prescription required to meet exemption, except medical oxygen equipment sold for facility use.
South Carolina: Subject to tax, with the exception of devices paid for by South Carolina or Medicare/Medicare programs. These items must also be sold by a licensed South Carolina provider.
Washington: Subject to tax, with the exemption of certain items like prosthetic devices, oxygen systems, and others.
The following states do not have any statewide sales tax on any products, including medical devices.
Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon
Other Ways to Reduce the Cost of Your Medical Device
Understanding the tax landscape of medical devices is a single step in making an informed medical device purchase.
If you are looking for ways to cut costs when purchasing a medical device for you or a loved one, we also recommend:
Reviewing your insurance coverage: Most insurances provide at least partial coverage for prescribed medical devices.
Contacting a product expert here at Med Mart: With decades of experience, our experts can help you identify the most cost-effective equipment that fits both your needs and budget.
Owning a portable ramp to simply and safely travel over curbs, stairs, and other obstacles is truly liberating. We know there are a lot of ramp options to choose from, but don’t worry - we are here to help! Finding the perfect portable ramp for you begins with finding the appropriate length and weight. These are two major factors that can easily be overlooked. While shorter ramps are certainly easier to transport, certain heights require a longer ramp to maintain a manageable incline. If you are looking for a ramp to take on-the-go, picking a lightweight model is extremely important. Having a reliable portable ramp will give you the freedom of mobility, no matter where you are! Read on for more information on finding the right ramp for you.
When it comes to making your home or business accessible, you have two main choices: ramps or vertical platform lifts. Both of these options can help anyone who uses a wheelchair, scooter, walker, or other wheeled device to access an area that stairs or other obstacles would otherwise prevent them from accessing. Ultimately, the decision of whether a ramp or vertical platform lift is right depends on the layout of the area, your budget, and your priorities. Here’s what you need to know.
A wheelchair ramp can quickly add accessibility to nearly any space. If you’re considering adding an access ramp to your home, there are five important factors that you will need to consider in order to purchase the right ramp.
When you need to provide wheelchair accessibility, whether it’s inside or outside of a building, you’ll have two main options to choose from:
Vertical platform lifts and modular ramps. Each option has its own set of advantages, and ultimately deciding which option is right for your needs will depend on your individual situation. Let’s take a look at the differences between vertical platform lifts and modular ramps to help you decide which is right for you.
