Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled a list of our frequently asked questions.
Take a look at the answers below or contact us if you aren’t finding the information you need.

ibot® PMD FAQs

Is the ibot® PMD cleared by the FDA?

Yes, the FDA has provided clearance for the ibot® PMD for sale in the US. 

What is the process for getting the ibot® PMD?

See your physician and receive a prescription for an ibot® PMD. The ibot® PMD is a medical device and does require a prescription.

See a seating specialist at a wheelchair clinic in your area for a wheelchair evaluation. During this appointment, an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) from Mobius Mobility will attend virtually using a HIPAA-compliant video conferencing platform. 

Please let us know as soon as your seating evaluation appointment is scheduled so a representative of Mobius Mobility can book time to join. From there we set up a time for fitting and training. 

Contact us at 1-833-346-4268 or at our contact page for more information. 

I am concerned I won’t be able to use Stair or Balance Mode, is there anything that can be done to remove access to these functions?

The ibot® PMD can be customized for individual users, and that includes managing access to Balance and Stair Modes. 

Where do I find a dealer to support me in ordering an ibot® PMD?

The ibot® PMD can be purchased directly from Mobius Mobility in the United States and via distributors in Europe. Qualified veterans can receive an ibot® PMD through the VA. Contact your VA medical team to determine your eligibility to receive an ibot® PMD through our contract with the VA. Reference contract FSS #36F79721D0202.

Is the ibot® PMD available internationally?

The ibot® PMD is available in Europe. We are actively working on expanding our market. We would be happy to take your contact information and reach out to you when we reach your area. 

For European inquiries please contact: 

2KERR 
Parallelweg 21 
5321 JA Hedel 
The Netherlands 

Phone number: 0031 (0)88 045 0707 
info@meetibot.com
ww.meetibot.com
 

Can I borrow an ibot® PMD for a week to make sure it works for me before buying one?

We provide demos at our facility in Manchester, NH, and at expos and events we attend frequently. We also host in-service/demo days in various locations across the country. Please visit our Where to Find Us page to see where the ibot® PMD will be next.

Is customer service/tech support available 24 hours a day?

Yes! We have a 24-hour service line: if you need immediate ibot® assistance, call (833) 346-4268 and dial option 9.

Our regular hours of operation are currently Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:00pm ET with major holidays being observed. 

Routine service requests should be directed to (833) 346-4268 (dial option 2). Our Mobius Mobility Service Technicians will address your call as quickly as possible. 

Where is the ibot® PMD manufactured?

The ibot® PMD is proud to be manufactured, assembled, and built in the USA by Mobius Mobility, in the historic Millyard of Manchester, New Hampshire! 

Does the ibot® PMD really climb stairs?

Yes! But note, the ibot® PMD does not climb stairs on its own. The user, or their trained assistant, climbs stairs by shifting the chair’s center of gravity in the direction you want to go. It takes some training and technique, but it’s not about strength. The ibot® PMD does much of the work for you. Check out some of our user stories to see stair climbing in action. 

Do you need trunk control to use the ibot® PMD?

The ibot® PMD is controlled through a joystick. Unlike the Segway or a seated Segway, users are not required to use balance or trunk control to move the device. To use the ibot® PMD you need to be able to drive using a standard joystick, as we do not currently offer specialty controls. Positioning and supports needed will be considered during your evaluation. 

What will training consist of?

Training usually takes 1-2 days and can occur at our facility in Manchester, NH, at a certified training facility, or in your home/community. Training time does vary depending on your needs and circumstances. Training modules will cover device components, operation and environments of use in all modes, and maintenance. 

Does the ibot® PMD accept custom seating?

Yes! The iBOT uses Motion Concepts seating, which accepts of a variety of seating and positioning components from Motion as well as other brands including Ride Design, Jay/Sunrise Medical, BodyPoint, Roho and more to fit your individual needs.

I need to demo the ibot® PMD before my therapist/payer will let me proceed – how can I make this happen?

Please contact us at 1-833-346-4268 or at info@mobiusmobility.com. Demos are offered at our facility by appointment. We also offer demo opportunities across the country at expos and individual facilities. We are happy to let you know when we will be in your area. 

Can I purchase an ibot® PMD from my local medical store?

The ibot® PMD can be purchased directly from Mobius Mobility in the United States and via distributors in Europe. Qualified veterans can receive an ibot® PMD through the VA. Contact your VA medical team to determine your eligibility to receive an ibot® PMD through our contract with the VA. Reference contract FSS #36F79721D0202.

Can I rent an ibot® PMD for an upcoming trip?

Unfortunately, no. This is a prescription medical device that requires fitting and training, so rentals are not an option.

I am an original ibot® user, do I have to come to training?

Yes. Training is required for all users of the ibot® PMD. The ibot® PMD has been updated since the ibot® 4000, and training is required by the FDA. For many previous users, training on the new ibot® PMD will go quickly due to the similarities.

Is the ibot® PMD approved for airline travel with the lithium-ion batteries?

Yes! The batteries meet the criteria of the United Nations Manual of Tests and Criteria. We provide each user with an Airline Travel Card to instruct airline staff on how the device should be handled and stowed with batteries in place.

How long does it take to go through the process start to finish to purchase an ibot® PMD?

Typically, once your order has been submitted, it takes approximately 45-60 days for your ibot® PMD to be built and ready for your training.

Veteran FAQs

I am a veteran and would like to begin the process of receiving an ibot® PMD. Where do I start?

It is recommended that you start by requesting a power wheelchair assessment from your physician, therapist, physiatrist, or neurologist (this person may be VA or non-VA). If you are seen at a VA Spinal Cord Injury & Disease Center, they may have an ibot® PMD available for you to see and/or demo. Reach out to Mobius Mobility for assistance in beginning this process. 

I receive care through the VA for a non-service-connected spinal cord injury. Am I eligible for an ibot® PMD?

An assessment by your VA healthcare team will determine if an ibot® PMD will meet your needs.

Is the cost of the ibot® PMD covered by the VA or do I have to pay for it?

The cost of an ibot® PMD is completely covered by the VA for qualified veterans under Federal Supply Schedule contract #36F79721D0202. 

Where can I demo an ibot® PMD?

If you are interested in a demo of the ibot® PMD, and are eligible for VA healthcare, there is an ibot® PMD located at 23 of the VA Veteran Spinal Cord Injury & Disease Centers across the country. In some cases, Mobius Mobility may be able to provide a demo at your local VA or your home, and you are welcome to visit our main location in Manchester, NH. Demos are also possible at many of the events and expos that Mobius Mobility participates in. Check out our Where to Find Us page to sign up for a demo at an event. 

Do I need a doctor’s prescription or consult to demo an ibot® PMD?

You do not need a doctor’s prescription to demo an ibot® PMD. 

Do I need to have a spinal cord injury to receive an ibot® PMD through the veterans administration?

No. Veterans using the ibot® PMD have a variety of medical conditions that impact their mobility including: lower limb loss, MS, SCI, ALS and others.

What should I say to my physician at the VA to demo or receive an ibot® PMD?

You should be honest with your clinical team about your needs, and how the ibot® PMD can help improve your health, independence, and quality of life. Learn as much as you can about the ibot® PMD so you can actively participate in the conversations.

Clinician FAQs

Is the ibot® PMD cleared by the FDA?

We are dedicated to making sure the ibot® PMD is appropriate for users who are interested in it. If any of the following statements are true, the ibot® PMD may not be a good match, and further conversation may be necessary. 

  • Weight is outside of the 50 pounds to 300 pounds range. 
  • Risk of fracture while driving over rough terrain or while experiencing jarring forces related to ibot® PMD transitions. 
  • Risk of seizure or loss of consciousness. 
  • Complete vision loss or significant visual impairment impacting spatial awareness. 
  • Require a mechanical ventilator. 
  • Impaired memory or judgement. 

If you have questions, please reach out to us at Mobius Mobility. We are here to guide the equipment selection. We understand that the equipment must fit the person – not the other way around.

My client is interested in the ibot® PMD – how do I get more information about the product?

Contact us at 1-833-346-4268 or email us info@mobiusmobility.com

What is the process for issuing an ibot® PMD to one of my clients?

Similar to your process for any other mobility device:

Obtain a physician order and complete a clinical seating evaluation. Mobius Mobility ATPs will be available to remote in to your clinical evaluation, to assist with answering questions and completing the order form. 

We then will work with you and the client to identify the training location that best suits their circumstances. 

What should my client expect when planning for their ibot® PMD fitting and training?

Mobius Mobility will work with you and your client to identify dates that work for everyone. Training can take place at our home office in Manchester, New Hampshire, a certified ibot® Training Center, your facility, or the client’s home. Training takes between 1-3 days depending on the client’s needs and circumstances. Training will include fitting of the device with our in-house ATPs per the clinician order form. Prior to training, access to training videos will be provided to facilitate learning.

Are client’s travel and lodging included in the price of the ibot® PMD during the fitting and training period?

No, but we can assist with reservations and getting the best rates. We understand that travel costs may be a barrier for some clients and are always expanding our geographic reach. In the meantime, if travel would be an undue hardship for a particular client, please call us so we can discuss.

If one of our ibot® Certified Training Centers is more convenient we can connect you with their team, or we can look at sending one of our ATP’s to your area. 

Does the ibot® PMD accept custom seating?

The ibot® PMD offers the Motion Concepts Ultra Low Maxx Rehab Seating line. This includes a variety of backs and sizes, leg rests/footrests, arm rests, head rests and positioning components. Accessories may be added from brands such as Ride Designs, Jay/Sunrise Medical, BodyPoint, KiMobility, Roho and more! Contact us today to talk to a member of our clinical staff and discuss how the ibot® may be configured to fit your needs.

Can anyone climb stairs with the ibot® PMD?

The ibot® PMD offers the Motion Concepts Ultra Low Maxx Rehab Seating line. This includes a variety of backs and sizes, leg rests/footrests, arm rests, head rests and positioning components. Accessories may be added from brands such as Ride Designs, Jay/Sunrise Medical, BodyPoint, KiMobility, Roho and more! Contact us today to talk to a member of our clinical staff and discuss how the ibot® may be configured to fit your needs.

I’m concerned my client won’t be able to use Stair or Balance Mode, is there anything that can be done to remove access to these functions?

Following clinician input and user training, if Balance or Stair Mode are not recommended, access to those Modes can be removed. 

Where do I find a dealer to support me in helping a client order an ibot® PMD?

The ibot® PMD can be purchased directly from Mobius Mobility in the United States and via distributors in Europe. Qualified veterans can receive an ibot® PMD through the VA, reference contract FSS #36F79721D0202.

Is there anything the ibot® PMD can’t do?

The ibot® PMD is designed only for use in accordance with the user’s manual, by individuals who have been assessed and trained in the safe and effective use of the device. 

Certain types of terrain and obstacles are not appropriate for the ibot® PMD, and some driving modes should not be used in certain situations and terrain.

The ibot® PMD does not determine the appropriate mode selection for the environment and terrain. It is up to the user to select the appropriate mode, given the obstacle, terrain, and slope. 

Can my client buy an ibot® PMD directly from Mobius Mobility?

Yes – with a prescription, clinical evaluation, and referral. We will work directly with you and your client. 

If my client has a problem with their ibot® PMD, who can fix it?

You can call us at 1-833-346-4268 or email service@mobiusmobility.com to resolve the majority of service needs over the phone, including when your device displays a service code. 

95% of cases are resolved either over the phone or by shipping customer replaceable parts directly to the user. For example, the tires and batteries have been designed for easy replacement with simple hand tools. 

For repairs that require a technician, we will provide a service call, connect you to a certified ibot® service technician, or assist you in shipping your device back to us in New Hampshire (only for major service). 

What should a client do if there are error codes on their device?

Call us at 1-833-346-4268 and press 2 for service. We can help identify the problem over the phone and in the majority of cases we can resolve the issue over the phone. 

How does a client receive repair work on their ibot® PMD?

95% of cases are resolved either over the phone or by shipping customer replaceable parts directly to the end user. For repairs that require a technician, we will provide a service call, connect you to a certified ibot® service technician and send them to the client’s home to conduct the repair. 

Is the ibot® PMD covered by insurance?

Mobius Mobility is accredited through ACHC and can direct bill private insurance plans, to help individuals receive the maximum allowable benefit. Mobius Mobility can also bill Medicare. 

For others, we can assist with documentation, including preliminary quotes for prior approval, but we do not direct bill insurance carriers. Call 1-833-346-4268 for more information. Currently, we do not accept Medicaid. 

Does Mobius Mobility file the insurance claim?

Mobius Mobility is accredited through ACHC and can now direct bill some private insurance plans, striving to help your client receive the maximum allowable benefit. Mobius Mobility can also bill Medicare. 

Currently, we do not accept Medicaid. 

My client doesn’t have the funds to purchase an ibot® PMD, but we think it is the best device for them. Do you have any suggestions for funding options?

Yes, we have Funding Specialists on staff to help clients directly with funding options. Please call us at 1-833-346-4268 and visit our funding page for information and resources. 

Will a change in body weight impact how the ibot® PMD operates? Does my client need to do anything?

Yes – changes to weight, weight distribution (body shape) or adjustments to seating may occur over the lifetime of your ibot® PMD. If you notice an increase in the amount of space needed when transitioning in or out of balance mode, we advise recalibrating of your center of gravity (CG Fit). Call us at 1-833-346-4268 and we can help with that. 

Can the ibot® PMD be used as a seat in a motor vehicle?

Yes, the ibot® PMD is approved for Occupied Transport*. Options for securement include 4-point tie down or adding the EZ lock docking system.

*When all seating components meet occupied seating requirements 

Is there a lower cost if a client doesn’t use the stair climbing mode?

Yes, quoting will be adjusted according to the clinical evaluation. 

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