04-06
Information gathered from data provided by the Department of Health and Human Services; the National Center for
Health Statistics; and the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Planning and Management Analysis (see SURVEY OF
DISABLED VETERANS, OPMA-M 043-90-1).
1. The percent of disabled at VA hospitals is much higher than the percent of disabled in the general
population used for UFAS. Two percent may be adequate for the general population. The percentage of
disabled drivers/passengers is much higher in the veterans population.
2. A higher percentage of sick and disabled make up the VA population than make up the general
population used for UFAS.
3. It takes a minimum of 1500 mm (5'-0") for two wheelchairs to pass.
4. The disabled population used by UFAS to determine an acceptable slope for using public
accommodations is stronger and younger than are veterans at VA facilities.
5. UFAS used a younger, more fit population to determine the minimum slope and distance for a
disabled person's travel capability.
6. Older, ill veterans need more room to maneuver and a larger safety envelope.
7. UFAS is based on an active, independent population. Little consideration was given to accessibility
in medical care facilities, except in Section 6.
8. VHA study shows patient's vehicle + visitor's vehicle + outpatient's vehicle equals nearly 2.0 cars
per patient. Additionally, UFAS parking spaces are required for employees and visitors with no allowance
for patients.
9. Disabled veterans come to VA facilities either driving or riding. Both sides of the parking space
must be available to allow disembarking from either side of the car.
10. This feature, not mentioned in other standards, allow SCI veterans to contact Nursing Service,
Pharmacy, or Security for their appropriate needs without the extra burden of unloading their wheelchair and
leaving their car.
11. Sick veterans in wheelchairs are often weak, disoriented, and unskilled in wheelchair operation.
Studies show the additional 300 mm (1'-0") provides a much needed margin of safety.
12. Tests show only those with good upper body strength can manage a ramp slope of 1:12. Slopes
greater than 1:16 create safety hazards for any wheeled vehicle.
13. Long uninterrupted ramps have caused accidents at VA facilities. Weak, unskilled wheelchair users
need frequent stops for safety.
14. The 300 mm (1'-0") added width is necessary to ensure all VA wheelchair users can get up and down
the ramp, safely.
15. Older, frail, confused, disabled veterans need a larger level platform to maneuver a wheelchair.
16. Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) requires 850 mm (34") to 950 mm (38").
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