Car Seats

 

What to think about when determining the appropriate car seat for your child

  • What kind of supports will the child need to remain safely positioned in their vehicle?

    • Will they need additional head or trunk support, an adductor pommel, incontinence cover?

  • Will their caregiver be able to safely transfer the child in and out of the vehicle? (especially if the child is bigger)

  • Choose a car seat that has growth to it so the child can use it for a longer period of time.

  • Should the family be considering other means of transportation? Van modifications or medical transport?

  • According to Medicaid Guidelines, would the child benefit from using the EZ on Adjustable Vest? If so, then an adaptive car seat will not be covered.

    • EZ on vests are usually distributed by transportation companies or can be bought online.

 
 

Car seats to consider

Download quick info sheet

 

Wallaroo

  • Comes with optional wedge to angle seat back 30 degrees

  • Fabric is removable and washable

  • Positioning wedges offer added head, trunk and pelvic supports

  • 4-point harness

  • Available in one size 

  • Minimum user weight 22 pounds

  • Max user weight 106 pounds

  • Max user width 13 ¾ inches

Spirit

  • Accessories available: extensor thrust wedge, incontinence cover, laterals and head support

  • Available in one size

  • Minimum user weight 25 pounds

  • Max user weight 130 pounds

  • Max user height 66 inches

Roosevelt

  • Padded throughout

  • Padded hip extenders to accommodate growth in width and depth

  • Headrest system, pommel to help with tightness keeping the knees apart and incontinent cover available if needed

  • Comes in multiple color combinations

  • Minimum weight 35 pounds

  • Maximum weight 115 pounds

  • Minimum height 33.5 inches

  • Max height 62 inches

Churchill

  • Good option for a child who exceeds 100 pounds or 60 inches

  • Does not provide maximal support for those children requiring assistance with seating and positioning

  • Minimum user weight 65 pounds

  • Max user weight 175 pounds

  • Max user height 75 inches

 

Sample letters of medical necessity

 
 

Medicaid general guidelines

Positioning seat for persons with special orthopedic needs (adjustable, for use in vehicles, able to accommodate users up to 60 inches, prior approval required for ages less than 2 or over 10)

  • Covered when the:

    • Member's postural needs cannot be safely met by less costly alternatives such as the vehicles restraint system or other restraint systems such as an EZ on vest.

    • Member's size or postural support needs restricts the use of a standard/commercially available car seat.

    • Car seat is used in the primary caregiver’s personal vehicle.