Mobius Mobility | Top Mobility Aids Company 2023

MedTech Outlook Magazine

Mobius Mobility
Increased Independence through Innovative Wheelchairs Like the iBOT®

Lucas Merrow, CEO, Mobius MobilityLucas Merrow, CEO
Today, innovations like electric cars, transatlantic jets, and the internet are commonplace, but wheelchairs have maintained their core design since the 1600s. While wheelchairs provide basic accessibility, they still have limited functionality on anything beyond flat, stable surfaces. The CDC reports that 13.7% of U.S. adults have some form of mobility disability, yet broader accessibility is still lacking. This is why Mobius Mobility was created.

Lucas Merrow, CEO of Mobius, says, “The development of the iBOT® stemmed from a strong feeling among a group of very talented engineers. They felt that it was unacceptable that people with disabilities didn’t have access to the same sort of innovation that other sectors of society have.”

The engineers spent years perfecting the iBOT® Personal Mobility Device, a product that allows users to climb stairs, curbs, and steep hills. It’s lightweight and has enough traction to move through sand, snow, and rough terrain. Its balancing technology gives users the ability to move and interact at eye level. Whether it’s a city, beach, woodland, or wedding, iBOT® users have the freedom to go where they want to go, with confidence.

The compact iBOT® PMD has four main modes: “Standard” for maneuvering on flat level surfaces (like a regular wheelchair), “Balance” which gives users eye-level interaction capabilities, “4-Wheel” for moving through different terrains and climbing over curbs, and “Stair” for climbing steps.

The iBOT® combines balance and motion to provide a superior user experience and independence. The iBOT® uses iBalance technology to continually keep the seat relatively level while the power base pivots over curbs and inclines. The same technology permits climbing stairs.
Through a combination of sensors and an ergonomic design, this mobility device gives users access to places they often struggle to reach.

Many users have shared stories about how the iBOT® PMD has changed their lives. Gary, a U.S. Army Veteran, can now overcome obstacles he simply couldn’t before. The capabilities of his iBOT® allow him to walk his dog on uneven terrain, take a tour around his neighborhood, interact with people at eye level, and even grab a cookie from the top of the shelf independently.

Mobius follows a direct-to consumer distribution model. A user first obtains a physician’s prescription, followed by an appointment with a therapist specializing in mobility for a wheelchair evaluation. The therapist works with the user to consider different products and decides if the iBOT® fits their needs. Then, Mobius Mobility Assistive Technology Professionals get involved, helping to specify the device configuration, and the customized iBOT® is built based on these specifications.

Mobius Mobility has been awarded a Federal Supply Schedule contract from the United States government, enabling the distribution of the iBOT® through the Veterans Administration. Through this contract, qualified veterans can receive an iBOT® at no cost. The equipment is also available through partnerships with certain private clinics and hospitals for the non-veteran population.

  • The inspiration for the invention and development of the iBOT® stemmed from a strong feeling among a group of very talented engineers. They realized it was unreasonable and unacceptable that people with disabilities didn’t have access to the same sort of innovation and technology the other sectors of society have


Users have several options to test drive, purchase, and receive training on the iBOT®. Mobius Mobility staff travel to users’ communities to provide demos, training, and service. VA hospitals and private clinics are also certified as demo and training centers. Mobius thoroughly trains users, so they use the device in all modes safely in their communities. Users can familiarize themselves with the device through an iPhone or Android application before the training begins. The two-day training that follows is goal-oriented, fun, and interactive for clinicians and users.

For many people, the iBOT® is synonymous with freedom. Following its passion for empowering people with disabilities, Mobius Mobility will continue making a difference in their lives by blending technology and innovation in the iBOT®.

Top 10 Mobility Aids Companies – 2023

Company
Mobius Mobility

Management
Lucas Merrow, CEO

Description
The world of people living with disabilities has remained relatively stagnant. Mobius Mobility combines innovation and technology in its iBOT® mobility device to help people with disabilities live a normal, joyous life.

Mobius Mobility News

Mobius Mobility's iBOT® Personal Mobility Device Now Covered Under Medicare

The iBOT® Achieves Major Milestone: Device Now More Accessible & Affordable with Medicare Coverage
MANCHESTER - Today, Mobius Mobility announced the launch of Medicare coverage for the innovative iBOT® PMD, a multi-modal power wheelchair in which users can traverse a wide variety of terrain and add on the ability to climb stairs and operate at eye-level.
Presently, individuals qualified under Medicare insurance have the opportunity to acquire an iBOT® Personal Mobility Device (PMD) with reimbursement assistance. The company is now equipped to initiate the handling of Medicare insurance claims related to iBOT® PMDs. The iBOT® Personal Mobility Device, developed by Mobius Mobility, boasts six modes tailored for various situations. In an iBOT®, users can ascend curbs and stairs, maintain balance on two wheels, and navigate challenging terrains such as sand and snow, offering a distinctive and versatile mobility experience.
"Team iBOT® could not be more excited!" Lucas Merrow, Mobius Mobility CEO said. "Our mission is to deliver the increased mobility and independence that the iBOT® PMD provides to anyone who needs it. And affordability is foundational to this effort. With Medicare coverage, iBOT® users who are Medicare beneficiaries can finally receive the financial assistance they deserve."
Accessibility and affordability challenges are among the biggest barriers that wheelchair users face, says Jill Kolczynski, Director of Reimbursement and Product Management for Mobius Mobility.
"We are excited to add Medicare to the funding resources available to iBOT® users. This has been a long time coming and is a big leap in the right direction," Kolczynski said.
The iBOT® PMD stands out as a versatile mobility device, empowering users to achieve newfound levels of independence in navigating from one point to another. This innovative device addresses the common obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities and is now more financially accessible. The iBOT® facilitates a range of activities for people with disabilities, such as reaching high cabinets, making eye contact, navigating curbs and stairs, and enjoying outdoor pursuits like beach outings or hikes, thereby overcoming everyday challenges.
With six distinct operating modes, the iBOT® PMD offers various mobility functions. For instance, in 4-Wheel Mode, all four large drive wheels engage while automatically maintaining the seat, and consequently the user, level during inclines and declines. This capability enables exploration of diverse terrains beyond typical backyard settings.
Individuals may explore opportunities for additional financial support through vocational rehabilitation or worker's compensation. Mobius Mobility collaborates with non-profits and credit unions that contribute to iBOT® support through donations and financing. The company's dedicated funding specialists are available to assist users with insurance and other funding-related inquiries.