Are Broda Wheelchairs Considered “Geri” Chairs?
No, Broda wheelchairs are not geri chairs or medical furniture. Broda products are classified as Durable Medical Equipment. According to the FDA’s Department of Health and Human Services Broda’s chairs and wheelchairs fall under the Medical Device category. They are classified as Class I Mechanical Wheelchairs.
Disclaimer: Before we compare the Broda chair and geri chair, it is important to understand that Broda refers to a specific medical seating brand with multiple products and benefits, while “geri chair” is a general term used to describe supportive seating for older adults or individuals with limited mobility. Features and functionality can vary significantly depending on the specific chair model.
What is a Geri Chair?
A geri chair, also called a geriatric chair or medical recliner, is a chair designed for individuals with limited mobility or those who require seated support. While there are a variety of versions, most models include a combination of the following: padded seating, reclining backrests, elevated leg rests, locking wheels, and supportive armrests. Some can assist with standing.
Commonly used in:
- Hospitals
- Care Facilities
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Home Care Settings
Geri chairs are generally classified by the primary HCPCS code E1031, or “a rollabout,” transport-style chair with casters. It does not possess advanced tilt-in-space positioning or dynamic seating capabilities.
What is a Broda Chair?
A Broda chair is a specialized medical seating and mobility device designed to provide advanced positioning support, comfort, and pressure redistribution for individuals with limited mobility. Many Broda chairs feature tilt-in-space positioning, adjustable recline, and supportive seating systems that help improve posture while reducing pressure, sliding, and shear during prolonged sitting.
Commonly used in:
- Long-Term Care Facilities
- Rehabilitation Centers
- Medical Transport
- Healthcare Settings
- Home Care Settings
Many Broda tilt-in-space chairs are classified under HCPCS code E1161, a designation used for advanced positioning wheelchairs that provide enhanced postural support and pressure management for individuals with more complex seating and mobility needs. Unlike standard transport or geri chairs, Broda seating is specifically designed to support long-duration comfort, clinical positioning, and caregiver-assisted mobility.
For example, here is the FDA Establishment Registration & Device Listing of the Synthesis Tilt Recliner that is registered and classified as a Mechanical Wheelchair (Product Code IOR; Regulation Number 890.3850).
The Veteran’s Health Association’s Prosthetic Clinical Management Program (PCMP) validates the clinical use of Broda products as Manual Wheelchairs with Tilt and Recline Combination Seat Functions.
In the United States, Medicare classifies Broda wheelchairs as Manual Wheelchairs with Tilt in Space (HCPCS E1161).
In Ontario Canada, the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) registers Broda wheelchairs as Adult Manual Dynamic Tilt Wheelchairs.
Broda Chair and Geri Chair Comparison: The Differences at a Glance
Are Broda Wheelchairs Better than Geri Chairs?
A Broda wheelchair is a much more comfortable and functional seating solution. To learn more about why Broda wheelchairs are a better option than geri chairs for positioning, environmental engagement, skin integrity, and much more, read our blog, Are Geri Chairs Adequate for Positioning.
How Can I Request a Quote for a Broda Wheelchair?
To get a personalized quote, contact the Broda team on our website, email [email protected], or call 844-552-7632.