U.S. Access Board Standards for Accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment (MDE)
Helping healthcare providers understand the new accessibility requirements and how to stay compliant
New federal standards for accessible Medical Diagnostic Equipment
On July 25, 2024, the U.S. Access Board released final standards under Section 4203 of the Affordable Care Act to improve accessibility to medical diagnostic equipment for individuals with disabilities. These standards specifically outline criteria for the design of exam chairs, procedure chairs, and other diagnostic equipment to better support equitable care and independent patient transfers.
Effective September 23, 2024, these new standards establish a maximum low seat height of 17 inches as a requirement for accessible exam and procedure chairs.
Key requirements
Transfer Height Range
Examination chairs must provide:
- A low transfer position at or below 17 inches
- A high transfer position of at least 25 inches
- At least four additional positions, spaced no less than 1 inch apart, between the low and high extremes
Transfer Surface Dimensions
- Minimum width: 21 inches
- Minimum depth: 17 inches
Transfer Supports
- Be within 1.5 inches horizontally of the seat edge
- Be 15 inches long or more
- Be positioned 6 to 19 inches above the seat height
- Have a circular gripping surface between 1.25 and 2 inches in diameter
- Be free of obstructions along the gripping area
Leg Support
Where stirrups are included, additional leg support must be provided to stabilize and secure the patient.
Base Clearance
The chair base must not exceed 26 inches wide at the edge of the transfer surface.
What this means for healthcare facilities
While the Access Board’s 2024 update took effect in September, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has not yet mandated enforcement of the 17-inch low height standard. Instead, enforcement currently applies to the 2017 standard, which requires a seat height between 17–19 inches.
Scoping Requirements (DOJ, effective October 8, 2024):
- 10% of MDE in general facilities must meet 2017 ADA standards
- 20% in rehab facilities treating mobility impairments must comply
- At least one unit per facility must meet these standards
- Compliance deadline: August 9, 2026
UMF Medical’s position
We believe accessibility is not just a requirement; it’s a responsibility.
That’s why our FusionFREEDOM™ and LibertyPRO™ Exam Chairs are designed with ADA compliance in mind. Both chairs deliver a 17-inch low transfer height to meet the latest U.S. Access Board recommendations, helping make patient transfers safer and more accessible.
Coupled with our exclusive TruComfort™ and TruComfort+™ Support Rails, which support safe patient transfers, our exam chairs empower providers to deliver inclusive, dignified care.
Why it matters
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 44 million Americans live with disabilities, and the most common are mobility-related. Inaccessible diagnostic equipment contributes to delayed diagnoses, incomplete care, and secondary health issues.
Investing in accessible exam chairs—like the FusionFREEDOM™— is not just about meeting standards. It’s about ensuring every patient can receive care safely and respectfully.
Deliver care with confidence
UMF Medical is ready to help your facility stay ahead of compliance deadlines, improve patient outcomes, and deliver care with confidence and compassion.