USAB Final Rule for Low Transfer Height for Certain MDE

Medical Room with Diagnostic Eqpt

On July 25, 2024, the U.S. Access Board (USAB) issued a final rule specifying a low transfer height of 17 inches for medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) used in the supine, prone, side-lying, and the seated position. related to the low height specifications for transfer surfaces. The rule removes the sunset provisions in the Board's existing 2017 accessibility standards for MDE, which allowed for a low transfer height of between 17 and 19 inches. The final rule, which amends 36 CFR part 1195, is effective September 23, 2024.

“The Access Board is proud to issue these guidelines as a positive step toward equal access to healthcare for people with disabilities in America,” remarked Executive Director Sachin Pavithran. “Technical guidance on transfer heights of medical diagnostic equipment is crucial to ensure people with disabilities have timely and equitable access to diagnostic testing, exams, and critical medical services.”

On May 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) adopted the US Access Board’s technical standards for MDE with a low transfer height of 17 to 19 inches as part of its recent final rule under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, indicating that it will consider future rulemaking to adopt the 17-inch transfer height following the US Access Board’s issuance of a final rule. The Department of Justice also announced today that it will shortly publish in the Federal Register a rule under Title II of the ADA that establishes standards for MDE used by state and local government entities.