Equal Access to Healthcare

Equal Access to Healthcare

2nd Feb 2026

Equal access to healthcare is a requirement under federal law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related federal regulations establish accessibility standards intended to ensure that individuals with disabilities can receive medical care safely and with dignity. One area of focus is Medical Diagnostic Equipment (MDE) including exam chairs and exam tables used during patient care.

What Are the MDE Accessibility Standards?

The U.S. Access Board developed accessibility standards for medical diagnostic equipment that outline technical specifications for items such as exam chairs, exam tables, weight scales, and imaging equipment. These standards are intended to support safe and independent patient transfers and positioning.

For exam chairs and tables, the standards include a low transfer height range of 17–19 inches from the floor, along with requirements for features such as transfer supports, lift compatibility, and clear floor space.

Enforcement

Enforcement authority related to healthcare accessibility is generally shared by:

  • The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) under the ADA

  • The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act

Public healthcare entities are typically addressed under ADA Title II, while private healthcare providers are generally addressed under ADA Title III. HHS oversees many healthcare organizations that receive federal financial assistance.

Equipment Compliance Considerations

Unlike building accessibility standards, medical equipment standards focus on the functional capabilities of the equipment itself, such as height adjustability and transfer support features. Facilities evaluating equipment for accessibility typically review whether exam chairs or tables meet the published technical specifications from the U.S. Access Board.

Why It Matters

Accessible medical equipment can:

  • Improve patient safety during transfers

  • Reduce the risk of staff injury

  • Support independent patient movement

  • Promote equitable access to care

Healthcare organizations often review their equipment inventories and manufacturer specifications to better understand how existing or future purchases align with federal accessibility standards.

Additional Resources

The U.S. Access Board publishes the official Medical Diagnostic Equipment Accessibility Standards, which provide detailed technical criteria and definitions. Reviewing these standards and manufacturer documentation can help healthcare providers make informed equipment decisions and support accessibility goals.

How We Can Help

Upgrading to accessible equipment is one practical step facilities can take when reviewing accessibility standards. Exam chairs such as the Midmark 626, which are designed to meet low-height transfer specifications, can be an effective option when evaluating compliance needs. If you have questions about equipment features or want help reviewing your current setup, our team is here to assist. Give us a call at 301-345-8826 or email sales@medstatmedical.com