Featured

The 2020 Word of the Year

Pandemic. It’s a word that has dominated our lives this year. The COVID-19 pandemic has truly impacted everyone’s life in one way or another, so it’s no surprise that Merriam-Webster and Dictionary.com have declared “pandemic” the Word of the Year.

For electric wheelchair users and individuals with disabilities, the pandemic has changed many aspects of their daily lives. Working from home has suddenly become the norm. Accessibility has expanded in ways never thought possible. Masks are worn in all public spaces and for electric wheelchair users, cleaning and disinfecting power wheelchairs has become a lot more involved.

Working from Home in a Pandemic

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been mandated that any individuals who can work from home should do so. This is a great step forward for the disability community. Individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities or narrow electric wheelchair users often request remote work due to transportation barriers, medical appointments or other health reasons. Unfortunately, people with disabilities have often struggled to win the reasonable accommodation to work remotely. No longer! Today, everyone is encouraged to work remotely and it has proven that people are able to be productive when working from home. Furthermore, it has demonstrated that working from home can occur on a long-term basis.

Wheelchair Accessibility Problems Turn into Solutions

Because the pandemic requires all individuals to stay home to stop the spread of COVID-19, this mandate has solved many accessibility problems for narrow electric wheelchair users or people with disabilities. In terms of socializing, we utilize video chat programs such as Zoom or FaceTime to connect with loved ones. This new way of socializing has taken a lot of the stress off narrow electric wheelchair users, who don’t have to worry about accessibility when going to a friend or family member’s house or eating out at a restaurant. For many states, mail-in voting has become the norm due to the pandemic, and individuals with transportation barriers or chronic illnesses can exercise their right to vote easily with a mail-in ballot. These are just a few examples of how wheelchair accessibility problems have become solutions in 2020.

Disinfecting Wheelchairs and Wheelchair Cleaning Checklist

Due to the coronavirus, narrow electric wheelchair users must take greater precautions beyond washing their hands for twenty seconds. As an extension of their bodies, individuals should clean and disinfect their power wheelchairs daily. When disinfecting power wheelchairs, individuals should use EPA-approved wipes that contain an alcohol solution of at least 70 percent. If you don’t have wipes, the CDC recommends a spray bottle with one quart of water and four teaspoons of bleach. For electronic components on your power chair, we recommend silicon-based cleaners to avoid causing damage to the electronics. Check out our wheelchair cleaning checklist for more tips. While all this extra cleaning has certainly been challenging, it’s necessary to make sure that individuals with power chairs stay safe.

Featured

Wheelchair Accessories for the New Year

As the year 2020 winds down, everyone is looking toward 2021 with anticipation and hope. A new year means new year resolutions and new possibilities. As a narrow electric wheelchair user, you might consider making some important purchases for your narrow electric wheelchair. There are many motorized wheelchair accessories available: from storage options to LED lighting. Get the lowdown on each and decide whether you need some motorized wheelchair accessories to make 2021 the best year yet!

Power Wheelchair Backpack

Power Wheelchair Backpack

Quantum Rehab® knows the importance of having plenty of storage space available. Wheelchair storage bags are a great choice. If you have a Quantum® Power Chair with TRU-Balance® 3 Power Positioning Systems, consider purchasing the Quantum glove box, which attaches easily to the arm of your power chair. The personal item hook is another storage option and a great way to keep your purse or backpack within easy reach.

Speaking of backpacks, have you seen the new Quantum power wheelchair backpack? Made from extremely durable material, this backpack offers an insulated cooler pouch and plenty of volume to store all your possessions that you need to take with you when on the go. Each zipper on this backpack is equipped with a pull hook, perfect for individuals who have limited dexterity.

Wheelchair Safety Lights

Wheelchair Safety Lights

Why not light up the new year with some front and rear LED fender lights on your narrow electric wheelchair? Each switch-operated LED light is mounted to the fender above the drive tire on each side of the power chair. Quantum’s LED lights are ultra slim, delivering excellent compactness and durability. Seeing and being seen has never been easier. Now you can travel around at night with peace of mind and know that cars, pedestrians and cyclists will see you coming.

Motorized Wheelchair Backup Camera

Motorized Wheelchair Backup Camera

Many narrow electric wheelchair users understand the struggle of seeing what’s behind them when reversing. The motorized wheelchair backup camera from Quantum removes the guesswork! Whether you are reversing in your kitchen or at the mall, the Quantum backup camera promotes safety with a rear viewing angle of 170 degrees. Never worry about hitting door frames, small children or family pets. You can see what’s behind you with the 3.5-inch display that can be mounted on the armrest or the side rails for total convenience. Best of all, the backup camera from Quantum offers infrared capabilities for use at night.

Ready to Purchase?

Ready to purchase some motorized wheelchair accessories for the new year? Just reach out to your Quantum dealer today and let them know you wish to purchase some power wheelchair accessories. They can assist you!

Quantum Rehab® Announces Strategic Leadership Promotions

Jay Brislin and David Bertz Named Senior Vice Presidents to advance national sales, education, and customer support initiatives

DURYEA, Pa., February 17, 2026 — Quantum Rehab®, a leading innovator in complex rehab mobility technologies and a division of Pride Mobility Products® Corporation, is pleased to announce the promotions of Jay Brislin and David Bertz to the role of Senior Vice President – Quantum USA. Together, Jay and David will lead Quantum USA’s strategic vision and strengthen the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting customers, clinicians, and consumers with increasing effectiveness.

“This is about progress, not titles,” said Scott Meuser, CEO of Pride Mobility Products Corp. “Jay and David bring clarity, accountability, and a relentless focus on serving providers, ATPs, clinicians, and consumers better tomorrow than we do today. Their partnership sets the direction for Quantum USA—one centered on learning faster, responding better, and continuously raising the bar for the people who depend on our products.”

Jay Brislin brings more than 25 years of industry experience and has played a central role in strengthening Quantum’s relationships with both clinicians and providers nationwide. Known as a leader customers know they can count on, Jay has distinguished himself through his hands-on approach, deep clinical understanding, and consistent follow-through. He has been instrumental in building and leading Quantum’s educational and sales teams and brings a persistent drive to the business.

“I am truly grateful to be part of such an exceptional organization, made up of passionate people who are committed to delivering the highest level of customer experience, product innovation, and consumer satisfaction,” said Brislin.  “Our CEO, Scott Meuser, has an unwavering passion for the industry and the people we serve, and it resonates throughout the entire company. This strong culture inspires us to keep pushing forward with new innovations and advancement

Jay Brislin, Senior Vice President - Quantum Rehab USA

David Bertz has played a significant role in elevating how Quantum serves its customers, with a strong focus on customer support, sales execution, and building high-performance sales teams. His leadership has helped strengthen customer relationships, inspire and develop sales talent, and reinforce a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Over the years, David’s focus on listening to customers and pushing the organization to respond better and faster has been a key driver in Quantum’s ongoing progress.

“I’m humbled to be part of a team whose success is driven by a people-first culture grounded in being humble, hungry, and smart, with a singular focus on the consumer experience in power mobility,” said Bertz. “By listening closely to consumers, clinicians, and ATPs—and remaining 100% focused on power mobility—we deliver solutions that meet real user needs today and will continue to raise the standard through our future product roadmap.”

“Together, Jay and David represent a leadership model ensuring Quantum USA continues to evolve alongside the providers, clinicians and consumers it serves,” said Meuser. “With a shared focus on continuous improvement, their leadership reflects Quantum’s belief that the best way forward is to keep getting better—and that Jay and David are the right leaders to make that happen.”

David Bertz, Senior Vice President - Quantum Rehab USA

CMS UPDATES RULES FOR REPLACEMENTWHEELCHAIRS AFTER 5 YEARS

The new update suggests that a detailed written order, prior to delivery, for an
identical replacement power wheelchairs will satisfy the prior authorization
requirements for Original Medicare.

What does this mean for me??

  • Eliminates the requirement for a new face to face evaluation IF your medical need has already been established and your current chair was covered by Original Medicare.
  • This allows your physician and therapist to use the justification documentation they used for your current chair can be applied towards your replacement chair, in addition to any documentation that they may have that addresses your continued need for the chair over the time that you’ve had it.
  • Basically, if your chair is at least five years old and you need a replacement due to wear and tear, you and your wheelchair provision team may have to provide less paperwork to get a chair and seating systems within the same code sets as your current chair.

Is this approach for my chair replacement right for me?

Things to ask yourself before going this route:

  • Have you had any changes to your posture or positioning in the last five years? (i.e.
  • scoliosis, kyphosis, weight change)
  • Have you had any new pressure injuries?
  • Have you had any changes to your medical history or functional ability? (i.e. driving with a joystick feels harder now or decreased strength)
  • Would you benefit from any additional power seat functions that you previously
  • did not qualify for?
  • Does my current drive wheel configuration still work for me?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, or you are unsure, the recommendation would be to contact your PT/OT for a consultation.
Your primary therapist as well as your wheelchair supplier can help guide you to make the decision that is most appropriate for you.

While this update may help streamline equipment provision for those simply looking to receive a new version of their current equipment, it is your right as the consumer to feel informed in this decision making. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

The Leading Edge in Group 3 just took a Quantum leap! Introducing the Quantum® Edge® 4!

Introducing the Quantum® Edge® 4 – the new and improved mid-wheel drive – group 3 complex rehab power wheelchair from Quantum® Rehab.  The idea behind Edge® 4 emerged from the extremely successful Edge® 3 Stretto®.  Our engineers built upon the Edge predecessors, integrated several popular elements from the Stretto® and also added new features to this robust, full-size base. 

The Quantum® Edge® stands out from the competition and offers:

  • 7″ front and rear casters to help navigate real-world obstacles.
  • Switch-operated LED accent lights are integrated into the front casters for increased light projection and rear LED accent lights are integrated into the fenders.
  • A new battery tray provides improved rear battery access and group 24 batteries increase range.
  • Includes Quantum® Rehab’s well-known Independent Smooth Ride Suspension.

Options include TRU-Balance® 4 power positioning with anterior tilt, 12″ iLevel®, power articulating foot platform, and memory seating.


Other Features:

  • 300-lb. weight capacity|
  • Max. speed of up to 7 mph
  • 24.02” base width
  • 4-Pole Motors
  • 2.86” ground clearance
  • Q-Logic 3 controller with Bluetooth®
  • Optional Quantum® backup camera
  • Stealth Products® cushion featuring exclusive Coolcore® technology

NCART Industry Focus, Priorities, & Membership Drive Dear

Quantum Rehab Industry Partners,

We are thrilled to highlight our continued and long-standing partnership with NCART. Together, we champion the policies that make a real difference for you. Recently, we hosted a fly-in event in Washington, D.C., connecting advocates in the Complex Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) industry with Congress members. Our goal was to lay the groundwork for federal legislation in 2025, focusing on three key issues:

1. Economic and Operational Challenges: Addressing the difficulties members face in serving customers.

2. HR 5371 – “Choices for Increased Mobility Act”: Advocating for Medicare beneficiaries to access ultra-lightweight manual wheelchairs made from advanced materials like titanium and carbon fiber.

3. Support for Power Standing Systems: Encouraging Congress to push the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to review the National Coverage Determination for these systems.

NCART prides itself on being a lean organization. They operate without the frills of a corporate office, relying on a dedicated team of just three full-time employees and a few part-timers. This structure allows them to focus their resources on what truly matters: fighting for you and the CRT industry. Need proof? Check out their goals and accomplishments in the PDFs below.

NCART can’t do this without the support of its members. Your involvement is crucial as we navigate the challenges and opportunities in our field. Together, we can make a significant impact!

If you’re interested in an NCART membership, please contact Tim Hoffman, Membership Coordinator, at thoffman@ncart.us for assistance with the membership application. You can also reach out to Jay Brislin or Seth Johnson from Quantum Rehab.

Best regards,

Your Friends at Quantum Rehab

Member Letter 2024Download
2024 Membership_12-28-23mlDownload

The next generation: Q-Logic NES

Designed for ease of use and with comfort in mind, the controller offers two

programmable soft touch buttons, an easy-to-read LED display, USB-C

charging port, and an ergonomic design. Q-Logic NES is also the first nonexpandable

Quantum Rehab controller to feature an integrated magnetic

charger!

Q Logic NES image showing the joysticks in a six key and ten key version..

Users will find the experience intuitive and familiar as the Q-Logic NES is

based on our Q-Logic 3 platform. This controller has four individually

programmable drive profiles and is compatible with the Quantum Backup

Camera, Attendant Control, the optional swing-away joystick mount, magnetic

wall holder, and the USB charger accessory. It can also be configured with up

to two seat functions. A limited Bluetooth® function is also available for pairing

the Interactive Assist App or for programming.

The Ultimate Game Changer

Quantum Rehab® welcomes adventurers and nature enthusiasts to unleash their wild side with the release of our cutting-edge 4×4 all-terrain power chair, the Quantum® Outback! Inspired by a joint development effort with our Australian subsidiary, the Quantum Outback was designed and built with the outdoors in mind. Crafted for those who dare to defy conventional limits, this rugged 4-wheel independent motor mobility solution promises to expand your outdoor driving experience whether you’re navigating wooded trails or exploring uncharted terrain.

Photo of Bryan in the woods, he is seated in a Quantum Rehab Outback power wheelchair. The sun is shining through the trees and Bryan is looking toward the camera into the distance.

Our superior SRS (Smooth Ride Suspension) technology offers excellent stability and increases sitting tolerance. This combination results in a comfortable ride even when navigating rugged terrain. The Quantum® Outback comes standard with our Q-Logic 3e controller and a full lighting package. With a top speed of up to 5 mph (optional 6 mph package available), or 3.2 mph when elevated, the Quantum Outback can take you anywhere you want to go! The unit is also compatible with our USB charger and backup camera. The Quantum Outback is available in several sleek new colors including exclusive camo patterns.

A game-changer in mobility and independence, the cutting-edge Quantum® Outback invites you to explore new horizons and to redefine freedom. Join us in embracing this exciting leap forward and to experience the world without limits! Learn more at https://www.quantumrehab.com/quantum-power-bases/quantum-outback.asp

We’re Thrilled to Announce That Bluetooth® Functionality has Arrived for Q-Logic 3e

Image of a Q-Logic 3e controller with a "Now Featuring Bluetooth" text at the top.

Your Q-Logic 3e controller can already do so much. But in an increasingly wireless
world, our mission is to explore further ways to enhance your independence.

We’re thrilled to announce that Bluetooth® functionality has arrived for Q-Logic 3e!
It’s standard moving forward, but existing users need only download a firmware
update to start enjoying this convenient technology.

If a device has Bluetooth capability, your Q-Logic 3e can pair with it. Now, your
joystick has the ability to sync with your cell phone, tablet, or computer.

Image of an infographic showing a phone, tablet and computer connecting via bluetooth to a rendering of a Q-logic 3e joystick.

Picture the possibilities: your controller can become a computer mouse. It can scroll
on a smartphone. It can help you type on a tablet. All designed to aid in your
activities of daily living.


We anticipate the addition of Bluetooth functionality in Q-Logic 3e controllers to be a
game-changer for many of you. At Quantum Rehab®, our inspiration comes directly
from you, and we’ll never stop advancing toward breakthroughs for your overall
well-being.

YOU could be our next Q Roll Model

Are you a Q Roll Model? That’s what Quantum Rehab wants to know. And that’s why we want to hear from YOU!

Quantum Rehab is dedicated to being the premier global innovator of consumer-inspired complex rehab technologies. That’s why we’re truly excited to announce the return of our Q Roll Model contest for 2023! We’re seeking to add two awesome and relatable wheelchair users from across the country to our passionate team of brand ambassadors.

Winners of the contest will receive a three-month paid Q Roll Model contract and a custom power wheelchair with iLevel technology, with full service at no cost.

“Quantum Rehab’s commitment to the Disability Community goes beyond designing and producing innovative power wheelchairs that allow us to live our best lives,” said Stephanie Woodward, Quantum Rehab’s Brand Ambassador Coordinator. “We know that there is no one type of wheelchair user, and we’re dedicated to creating wheelchairs that are as unique as the people who sit in them every day. That is what makes this contest so exciting – we’re able to bring on new team members to represent Quantum Rehab and whose lived experience as wheelchair users can help us to continuously move the bar forward for power wheelchair technology.”

It’s easy to apply to be a Q Roll Model…

  • Go to this LINK and fill out the entry form (You can also view the Official Rules on this page)
  • Follow Quantum Rehab on our social media channels
  • Post a video or photos of yourself on social media explaining how having a Quantum Rehab power wheelchair with iLevel would help you live your best life. Be sure to tag Quantum Rehab and use the hashtag #QRollModelSearch
  • Encourage your friends to like and share your post (amount of likes and shares counts for 10% of the judging criteria)

Judging will consist of three factors: public voting (10%), video/photo content (30%), and an explanation of how iLevel would help the participant live their best life (60%).

The contest is open to legal residents of the United States who are 18 years and older, and children 10 years and older with parent/guardian consent. Entries are now being accepted and will close on August 13, 2023.

We look forward to welcoming our newest Q Roll Models, and we encourage you to apply today!

How to Travel with a Quantum Rehab Power Wheelchair

How to Travel with a Quantum Rehab Power Wheelchair

Do you have a big trip coming up?

Whether you’re venturing domestically or internationally, you may be wondering about the best ways to travel with your Quantum Rehab Power Wheelchair. For an enjoyable, hassle-free journey, you need to plan and pack properly.

To help with that, the team at Quantum has compiled a list of four helpful tips to keep in mind before you wave bon voyage.

Tip Number 1: Bring Your Charger (And a Converter, If Necessary)

Before you set sail on your adventure, remember to pack the most important item: your power wheelchair charger. You’d hate to show up to your travel destination only to discover your chair is low on power, leaving you scrambling to find a compatible charger.

If you plan on leaving the country, you may also need to bring a voltage converter or plug adapter that’s compatible with where you’re staying, as not every country uses the same outlet style and voltage [1].

Also, be sure to pack a USB phone charger to plug into your chair’s USB ports.

Tip Number 2: Research The Area You’re Traveling To

It’s always best to do a bit of homework before you arrive at your destination. Consider researching wheelchair-friendly routes, accessible public transportation options and so on in light of your planned itinerary.

This can help prevent much of the stress and guesswork that might otherwise arise if you were to show up without planning ahead of time. Be sure to consider the accessibility of:

  • Hotels
  • Bars
  • Restaurants
  • Tourist destinations
  • Excursions

 

Tip Number 3: Locate Quantum Rehab Dealers Near Your Destination

If you have a Quantum Rehab chair, you should see whether or not we have a dealership location near your final destination.

Simply check out our easy-to-use locator tool to find dealers in your proximity. That way, if you experience issues or require maintenance for your power chair during your trip, you’ll already know where to find experts who can provide assistance.

Tip Number 4: Don’t Forget Your Accessories

Quantum Power Chairs are designed to be compatible with various helpful accessories that can enhance your quality of life and let you travel in comfort and style.

Some of our recommended accessories for traveling include:

  • Quantum Lap Tray
  • Personal Items Pouch
  • Quantum Backpack
  • Tablet Holder
  • Phone Holder
  • Rearview Mirror
  • Clothing Guards (Pair)
  • Personal Item Hook
  • Oxygen Holder
  • Rear Accessory Bar
  • Privacy Flap
  • Push Handles
  • Reflector
  • Reflector Kit
  • Transfer Bars
  • Trilogy Vent Tray
  • Cup Holder
  • Hydration System
  • Glove Box
  • Catheter Bag and Cover
  • VOCSN Tray
  • USB Port
  • USB Mobile Device Charger
  • Backpack Holders

Here, two particularly useful add-ons are fender lights and backup cameras, both of which can make it easier to navigate unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

Depending on the type of power wheelchair you have, some of these accessories may already be included. For instance, the Edge 3 Stretto® includes switch-operated LED fender lights, ensuring optimal visibility for any nighttime excursions.

Ensure a Smooth Travel Experience with Quantum Rehab

At Quantum Rehab, we’re committed to making travel simple and hassle-free for all of our users. Whether you want to visit a nearby city or fly across the country, you can count on our purposefully-designed power wheelchairs to provide easy navigation, enhanced comfort and a multitude of helpful accessories.

If you have any questions about traveling best practices for your specific model, feel free to contact us at any time.

Balancing Priorities: Reflections on Personal Relationships and Career Success

By: Josh McDermott


I’m not the kind of person who readily shares details of my personal life. I’ve always been adept at keeping my professional and personal spheres separate. Throughout my life, I’ve only been in three long-term relationships, each of them significant. I hold dating and relationships in high regard, considering them to be deeply vulnerable and incredibly enriching experiences. Discovering someone who can also be your closest friend, and taking that bond to the next level, is an unparalleled feeling that transcends any other aspect of life.

At the age of 18, I embarked on a career path that would eventually become my dream job. Despite my youth, I was entrusted with significant responsibilities and found myself among older individuals and higher-ups who valued my insights. Being the youngest person in most meetings was a weighty responsibility, one that I took very seriously. At a young age, I made a conscious decision to prioritize the company above all else. While I cannot definitively say whether this decision was right or wrong, I do know that it had a noticeable impact on my personal relationships.

I spent the majority of my time on the road, residing in hotels, attending events, trade shows, and delivering speeches at colleges. On average, I was away from home for 200 to 250 days each year. My friends used to jest that I led a rockstar lifestyle without actually being a rockstar. This way of life was undeniably a blessing, affording me the opportunity to inspire and assist numerous individuals. However, the decision to prioritize the company took a toll on my relationships, particularly when compounded by the challenges that come with having a disability.

For an able-bodied person, extensive travel can already be demanding. When you add the extra burden that a significant other takes on due to my disability, the strain becomes even more pronounced. In my situation, this burden, combined with constant travel and limited physical presence, created a breeding ground for difficult realities. Trust and open communication have always been fundamental to me when it comes to building strong relationships. I consider myself fortunate that all my past relationships ended amicably. To this day, I stay in touch with two of them, both of whom are now married with children. The other one is single and thriving.

Now that I’m older, I reflect on the choices I made, prioritizing everyone and everything else except my relationships. I sometimes wonder, when meeting with one of my exes, whether I could be married with a child, a home, and a white picket fence, living the quintessential American Dream. Recently, I had the chance to catch up with one of my ex-girlfriends and her four-year-old son over ice cream. While she was visiting the area, I asked her if we would be married by now had I not been constantly traveling and working. Her response was uncertain, suggesting that one can never truly know how things might have unfolded. Ultimately, you do what you believe to be the right thing.

https://www.instagram.com/jmcdermottnyc/