Tag Archives: accessible exam tables requirements

At Auxo Medical, we understand that providing equitable healthcare starts with the right equipment. Every patient deserves access to thorough examinations without barriers, and we are committed to helping medical practices achieve that through high-quality, compliant solutions. With evolving federal guidelines emphasizing accessibility in diagnostic equipment, now is the time to prepare your facility.

What are the New ADA Accessibility Requirements for Exam Tables?

The Americans with Disabilities Act and related regulations require healthcare providers to offer full and equal access to services. This includes ensuring that individuals with mobility disabilities can receive care on exam tables, chairs, and scales without unnecessary obstacles. Examining patients in wheelchairs or relying on makeshift accommodations often falls short of delivering the same level of care as for other patients. Adjustable equipment that lowers to wheelchair height makes a significant difference, allowing safe and effective transfers. Source: https://www.ada.gov/resources/medical-care-mobility/

By August 9, 2026, Practices and facility need to have at least one accessible exam table and one accessible weight scale in place. At least 10% of the total number of units at a facility, but no fewer than one unit, must meet the Access Board Standards (MDE).

Source: https://www.aap.org/en/practice-management/liability-and-regulation/complying-with-2024-adahhs-requirements-for-accessible-medical-diagnostic-equipment/

Key physical criteria for accessible exam tables and chairs include a low transfer height that aligns with standard wheelchair levels, a sufficiently wide and deep transfer surface, and a base narrow enough to permit patient lifts to position underneath. Two sides of the transfer surface should allow easy access, and when stirrups are involved, appropriate leg supports must be available for secure positioning. Support rails play an essential role too—they must be positioned close to the transfer surface, extend adequately in length and height, feature an appropriate diameter for gripping, and maintain a continuous, unobstructed surface for safe use during transfers.

Physical Criteria for Exam Tables:

• Tables adjust to a low seat height of 17–19″ – Confirm should it or should it not be 17”
• Transfer surface at least 21″ wide by 17″ deep
• Base cannot be more than 26” Wide
• Two adjoining sides of the seat must be accessible for transfers
• When using stirrups, provide leg supports for positioning/securement
  • Under Knee Leg supports

Support Rails:

• Located 1 ½ inches maximum measured horizontally from the plane defined by the nearest edge of the transfer surface
• Capable of supporting transfer on each side of the transfer surface
• 15 inches long minimum
• 6 inches to 19 inches in height (higher than the top of the associated uncompressed transfer surface) during use
• An outside diameter of 1 ¼ inches minimum and 2 inches maximum (circular cross section)
• A gripping surface continuous along their length and shall not be obstructed

Midmark Solutions at Auxo Medical

We specialize in Midmark solutions that align with these Access Board standards for medical diagnostic equipment. Our offerings include the Barrier-Free Examination Chair and Procedure Chair models, designed with features like low seat heights, compatible bases for lifts, and integrated support options. These help practices fulfill requirements for at least one accessible exam table or chair per facility, along with a compliant weight scale. The focus is on both HHS and DOJ timelines, giving facilities until mid-2026 to have the necessary items in place depending on their classification. Source: https://www.midmark.com/medical/medical-solutions/patient-accessibility#standards

Beyond tables and chairs, we recognize the value of stretchers with ample clearance underneath. This design allows lift bases to roll under smoothly, enhancing safety for both patients and staff during transfers and reducing the risk of injury. Our team works closely with practices to identify the best configurations, including options that support ongoing compliance as new equipment is acquired.

Training and thoughtful placement matter as much as the equipment itself. We encourage facilities to reserve accessible rooms for patients who need them, note accessibility requirements in patient records, and ensure staff are prepared to assist with transfers and positioning. By investing in the right tools now, practices can avoid service denials, improve patient outcomes, and create a more inclusive environment.

Midmark Exam Tables that meet the ADA MDE Accessibility Requirements

We at Auxo Medical are here to guide you through the process. From selecting Midmark Hi/Lo tables and chairs to ensuring your setup meets all transfer and support criteria, our expertise helps streamline compliance. Contact us or view the selected products below and explore solutions tailored to your practice and take the next step toward accessible care for everyone.