Join us for a dynamic summit tailored to meet the needs of both newer and experienced prescribers in the field of powered mobility. We’re bringing together leading presenters from across the industry to share current developments and the wealth of their experience. This summit is a must-attend for clinicians prescribing power wheelchairs, with topics including the assessment process, power seat functions, power assist devices, access and control methods, power wheelchair programming, and how to use tools and make adjustments to power wheelchairs.

Don't miss this chance to hear from our lineup of industry experts who will share their insights and experiences, tips for powered mobility assessment and prescription, and strategies to identify individualised solutions. You'll have the opportunity to engage with renowned specialists, gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art power wheelchairs, and network with like-minded professionals.

With two specialised streams, there's something for everyone looking to deepen their expertise in powered wheelchair prescription. Whether you're an experienced therapist or new to the field, this summit will empower you to provide the best possible solutions for your clients.

An outline of the day is available for both streams below, and more information on our industry experts is available at https://gtk.com.au/blog/event/...

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be provided.

Stream 1: For Newer Prescribers

Stream 2: For Experienced Prescribers

8.30am: Registration and welcome

8.30am: Registration and welcome

9am: Starting the Powered Mobility Journey

Presented by Kate Pain (GTK)

As a clinician new to the world of prescribing powered wheelchairs, it can be challenging to find your footing. In this workshop, we'll explore best practice for powered mobility device prescription, including domains of assessment to be addressed and the theoretical framework supporting powered mobility prescription. We’ll discuss the development of functional and community engagement goals while keeping safety at the forefront.

We’ll look at outcome measures to support clinical reasoning for funding applications and ensuring optimal outcomes for participants during prescription, provision and ongoing use of the powered wheelchair. Furthermore, we'll explore guiding users in mastering the control of a power wheelchair, enhancing their independence at home, during transportation, and within the community.

9am: The Ins and Outs and How to Make a Real Difference to a User’s Function and Mobility through Functional Programming

Presented by Tilly Brook (Permobil)

The programming possibilities of Power Wheelchairs have and continues to evolve - from handheld programmers through to computers, on board programming and now through your phone. The evolution and innovation of technology used in Power Wheelchairs has one focus: to ensure the Power Wheelchair provides the best outcome for the user. As much of this technology is often out of sight, at times it can be out of mind, which can lead to reduced functional outcomes and limit a user's independence.

In this workshop, you will be provided with the opportunity to get up close and personal with Power Wheelchairs, specifically the programming. We will discuss common (and not so common) difficulties which wheelchair users report when using their Power Wheelchair - and what specific programming changes enable an increase in function and participation. We will provide the links between functional goals and programming outcomes, and how optimal programming can assist users to overcome barriers.

10.45am: Clinical Reasoning: Power vs Power Assist

Presented by Scott Staunton (Sunrise Medical)

Power assist systems have rapidly evolved in recent years. They are commonly considered as an alternative to a power wheelchair. This workshop will focus on clinical implications and decision process when deciding between power and power assist technology. We’ll look the indications for these technologies and objective measures useful to qualify the technology for your client. We’ll also discuss training strategies to maximise functional gains.

10.45am: Alternate Controls - An ‘Alternate’ Route to Independence

Presented by Andrew Lopez (Quantum/Pride Mobility)

In this session, we’ll be delving into the world of alternate controls for power wheelchairs, focusing on enhancing users’ independence and mobility. We’ll introduce the 2 main types of alternate controls, including Proportional Controls and Switch Controls, and explore how these can be tailored to individual needs. Beyond the basics, we’ll delve into some innovative solutions, such as head arrays, chin control, and direction switch inputs. By the end of the session, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in assessing and selecting the most suitable control system for their clients.

1pm: Empowering Mobility: A Guide to Selecting the Ideal Power Wheelchair Base

Presented by Andrew Lopez (Quantum/Pride Mobility)

Selecting the right powered wheelchair is essential for boosting independence and mobility in everyday life. However, with a multitude of options available, navigating the decision-making process can be challenging and at times, overwhelming. This hands-on workshop aims to help prescribing therapists gain skills to select the optimal power wheelchair base, aligning choices with individual goals, environmental needs and driving comfort. By the end of the session, participants will understand how selecting the right power base can enhance mobility, ensuring both functional needs and personal aspirations are met.

1pm: Escaping the Footpath: Unlocking New Horizons (Off-Road Power Mobility)

Presented by Scott Staunton (Sunrise Medical)

Prescribing a powerchair often poses many challenges as you consider factors that affect client function and wheelchair performance outside the 4 walls of a clients home. We’ll help you understand the different base types and how they impact on client participation and functional outcomes.

We’ll consider:

Selecting a suitable base to cover personal goals/aspirations and environmental needs
Funding considerations - features such as motor size, suspension type and tracking assistance; when are they necessary rather than desirable.

2.45pm: Putting the 'Function' in Power Seat Functions

Presented by Tilly Brook (Permobil)

Join us for a session where we dive into the ins and out of each power seat function and the functional benefits that each may provide for users. We will look at not only the common reasons why each PSF may be prescribed but also the functional uses. We will discuss a number of outcomes measures you may use when working with your end users but also functional tasks and how you may document and justify these. Elevate provides more than just eye contact! We look forward to increasing your function when prescribing power seat “functions”.

2.45pm: Fine-Tuning for Function: Making Adjustments to Powered Wheelchairs

Presented by Kate Pain (GTK)

Small adjustments can make a big difference in a powered wheelchair user’s comfort, function, and overall mobility. But knowing when to make those adjustments—and when to call in a technician or Assistive Technology Consultant—is crucial for ensuring safety and optimal performance. This workshop is designed to help therapists build the skills and confidence needed to enhance user independence through fine-tuning powered wheelchair set-up.

You'll learn to identify when adjustments are safe to perform as a therapist and when more complex changes require specialized expertise. Through hands-on, practical learning, participants will learn which tools to use and gain experience in making common adjustments to wheelchair and seating components to achieve optimal outcomes for participants.

Can I attend some seminars from the Newer Prescriber Stream and some from the Experienced Prescriber stream?

We appreciate your interest in our workshop and the desire to get the most out of your experience. However, we've designed this workshop with two distinct streams to cater to different levels of expertise and learning needs. The streams have been carefully curated to ensure that attendees receive content and insights that are relevant to their specific skill level and experience.

Stream 1 - Newcomers: This stream is tailored for those who are newer to the field. It covers foundational concepts, best practices, and provides a great opportunity for beginners to gain a solid understanding of the subject matter. If you're relatively new to the field, this stream is the perfect choice for you to build a strong knowledge base.

Stream 2 - Experienced Practitioners: For those who have already accumulated a substantial amount of experience in the field, this stream offers advanced insights, case studies, and discussions that delve deep into complex topics. It's ideal for practitioners looking to expand their knowledge and network with experts in the field.

To ensure a valuable and focused learning experience for all attendees, we kindly request that you choose one stream that aligns with your current skill level and objectives. Each stream has been structured to provide the most relevant and beneficial content for its respective audience. Mixing and matching between the streams might result in a less optimised experience, as the content is intentionally tailored to address specific needs.

If you find that your needs span across both streams or if you're unsure which stream is the best fit for you, we recommend assessing your goals and current expertise level to make the most informed decision. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or need assistance in determining the most suitable stream for your workshop experience. We want to ensure that your time at the workshop is both enriching and valuable for your professional development.

Contact the host of Empowering Mobility Summit: The Art and Science of Power Wheelchair Prescription (Melbourne)