What To Look for When Purchasing a Medical Exam Chair

You may need to purchase medical exam chairs if you work in a hospital, doctor’s office, or another medical facility. Medical exam chairs are used to examine patients and should be able to support patients lying in different positions. A reliable exam chair can improve a patient’s experience, so facilities should prioritize high-quality exam chairs.

What To Look For in a Medical Exam Chair

There are a few things to consider when buying a medical exam chair. Look for qualities like specialization, weight limits, and storage solutions to find the best chair for your needs. 

Specialty

The first thing you should consider when buying an exam chair is what you will be using it for. There are general exam chairs and specialty chairs. If you work in a specialized field, such as orthopedics or ophthalmology, look for an exam chair made for that specialty. With a specialty chair, you’ll know the chair is built to withstand and accommodate the types of exams it will be used for.

Comfort

Both patients and staff can appreciate a comfortable exam chair. Prioritize comfort by looking for chairs with contoured seats and lumbar support. You can also look for chairs made from high-quality materials. Read any available reviews to find out what patients and staff are saying about a certain chair’s comfortability.

Adjustability

Many exam chairs allow you to manually adjust the height of the armrests, seats, and backrests. Some chairs also have electric controls that move the chair up and down. These chairs usually have foot pedals that allow the provider to move the chair without bending. These capabilities enable medical staff to adjust the chair according to the patient’s height. They also make it easier to put patients in a safe and comfortable position for the exam. 

Height and Weight Capacity

Your patient demographic plays a significant role in determining the height and weight capacity required by your exam chair. For instance, if your facility treats pediatric patients, look for a smaller exam chair. Smaller chairs are more comfortable for children, and it can be easier to position them in a chair that is their size. On the other hand, if you only have bariatric patients, find a chair that is approved to handle heavier patients.

Price

A new exam chair can come with a hefty price tag. You can pay full price or consider buying a refurbished chair. Refurbished medical equipment is equipment that has been used before but has been restored to the original manufacturer’s specifications. After refurbishment, equipment is in ‘new’ condition and can be significantly cheaper than new equipment. If you want a quality exam chair without the high prices, consider a refurbished option.

Maneuverability 

Only some facilities need an exam chair that is easy to maneuver. However, if you have a small office or regularly need to move exam chairs for cleaning, having a portable chair can be helpful. Some facilities keep smaller, portable exam chairs on hand for when they have busy days. These chairs are generally easier to store and can be pulled out easily when needed.                                                              

Storage Solutions

An exam chair with storage solutions can save time and help keep the office organized. Having a place to store necessities such as gloves and exam tools can be helpful. There are different storage solutions and options available like open shelves, drawers, and lockable drawers. Knowing which storage options you need before purchasing a chair can save you time and money.

Contact a Medical Equipment Supplier to Purchase an Exam Chair

If you need a new medical exam chair, reach out to a medical equipment supplier to see what inventory they have. If you are on a budget, ask if they have refurbished options. A high-quality exam chair is a staple for many medical facilities, so follow the guidelines outlined above to find one that will meet your needs.

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