Traversa Success Story: How R4H Medical Transportation Upgraded Their NEMT Operations

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) providers face unique challenges every day, from managing client comfort to operating efficiently despite staffing shortages. At R4H Medical Transportation, these challenges became an opportunity for growth and innovation. The Pennsylvania-based company expanded from a localized fleet in Pittsburgh to covering all of Pennsylvania and the surrounding states, now managing approximately 150 vehicles. To keep up with their increasing demand and continue delivering exceptional service, R4H upgraded their mobility solutions with Broda’s Traversa Transport Wheelchair.

James Smith, co-founder of R4H, shared how the Traversa has transformed their operations, making their service more efficient and client-focused than ever. Here’s why James says the Traversa has become the gold standard in the NEMT industry.

The Challenge of Staffing Shortages in NEMT

One of the biggest hurdles for NEMT providers nationwide is a widespread staffing shortage. For providers like R4H, this issue is especially pressing as it limits the number of trips they can complete daily. Historically, stretcher transport required two personnel to handle each client transfer, further exacerbating the impact of staffing challenges.

The Traversa Transport Wheelchair addresses this issue directly. Its upright, ergonomic design allows one attendant to safely and efficiently operate it, reducing the strain on staffing resources. For R4H, this meant that no trip had to be turned away simply due to staffing constraints, enabling them to fulfill their contract volumes more effectively.

Features that Set the Traversa Apart

Upgrading from Broda’s well-known Synthesis wheelchair to the Traversa, R4H experienced firsthand the product enhancements that make the Traversa the standout option for NEMT providers. The Traversa is designed to improve not only operational efficiency but also the overall transport experience for both attendants and clients.

1. Easier Transfers with Height Adjustments

The Traversa’s innovative height adjustment system simplifies bed-to-wheelchair transfers, which are critical for client safety and comfort. Smooth and efficient transfers ensure clients are cared for with dignity while saving time for attendants.

2. Maneuverability with Pivot Assist

Navigating through tight spaces and uneven surfaces is a daily challenge in NEMT operations. The Traversa’s Pivot Assist® System feature takes the hassle out of maneuvering, creating a miniscule turn radius and allowing the wheelchair to spin on a dime. NEMT attendants love how easy it is to get clients where they need to go, even in tight spaces like hospital rooms, exam rooms, and small elevators.

3. Higher Weight Capacity

With an increased weight capacity of up to 450 pounds, the Traversa accommodates a wider range of clients than standard NEMT wheelchairs. This inclusivity enables providers like R4H to serve more clients, growing their customer base and enhancing accessibility. The Traversa is also width-adjustable, making the ride comfortable for larger passengers.

4. Safety with WC19 Compliance

For reliable transports, the Traversa is crash-tested and WC19 compliant, providing secure and stable conditions. Many wheelchairs often used in the NEMT industry are not WC19 certified, leading to increased risk. The certification ensures the Traversa adheres to rigorous safety standards, offering peace of mind to both providers and clients. As such, the Traversa is often preferred over a passenger’s own wheelchair for safety reasons alone.

Comfort that Stands Out

For patients requiring medical transport, comfort can be just as important as safety. Traditionally, stretcher trips were considered the standard, but the Traversa’s adjustable seat, combined with Broda’s Comfort Tension Seating® system surpass stretchers when it comes to providing a smooth, cushioned, and supportive ride.

Unlike stretcher mattresses, which can feel rigid or clinical, the Traversa’s seating system is designed to offer exceptional support and padding for long trips. The Comfort Tension Seating system consists of flexible straps, rather than a solid surface, for immersive comfort perfect for short- and long-distance trips.

Combined with its seat tilt and back recline positioning capabilities, it ensures that clients travel comfortably no matter their medical needs. Plus, since passengers aren’t forced into a supine position, they benefit from enhanced visibility and a more natural seating position during transport.

Affordability Meets Functionality

Another key advantage of the Traversa is its affordability. Stretchers, though effective, are costly to purchase and maintain. Regular replacements of parts such as tires, bearings, or batteries often eat into NEMT providers’ profits. At one third of the price of a new stretcher and virtually maintenance-free, the Traversa provides a cost-effective alternative that doesn’t compromise on comfort or functionality. For businesses like R4H, the minimal maintenance has saved time and money, ensuring their operations remain financially efficient.

R4H’s Success Story with the Traversa

Since incorporating the Traversa into their fleet, R4H Medical Transportation has seen measurable improvements in their operations. Co-founder James Smith shared his experience:

James also highlighted the durability of Broda devices, noting that in his three years of using Broda products, they’ve required minimal maintenance compared to traditional stretchers. This reliability ensures that R4H can continue meeting contract demands with minimal downtime, keeping their fleet operational and efficient.

Watch James share more of his thoughts on the Traversa in this inspirational video.

Why the Traversa is Essential for NEMT Providers

The Broda Traversa Transport Wheelchair isn’t just a product; it’s a solution designed specifically with NEMT providers in mind. From tackling staffing shortages to ensuring clients travel in safety and comfort, the Traversa is revolutionizing medical transportation. Its features, combined with its affordability and reliability, make it a valuable investment for any provider looking to improve their operations.

Here’s what James had to say about the Traversa’s impact on the industry as a whole.

For NEMT providers like R4H, the Traversa has proven to be more than just an upgrade; it’s a competitive advantage that sets their service apart.

Experience the Broda Difference

If you’re ready to enhance your NEMT operations with a wheelchair that prioritizes efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction, it’s time to explore the Broda Traversa Transport Wheelchair. Our goal is to help you deliver compassionate, quality care while optimizing your business processes.

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